Subsurface site characterization is a high-resolution technology that when deployed can greatly enhance your information regarding soil strength and properties. Cone penetration testing (CPT) is an advanced method of geotechnical investigation that is efficient and reliable and can provide engineers with the information needed to mitigate risk. CPT can accurately determine soil types and strength, the groundwater table, and assist with identifying the location of any liquifiable materials or voids. By understanding the benefits of CPT, you can make informed decisions about improving your site conditions and achieving a successful outcome. So, why should you choose CPT over other methods? Keep reading to find out.
The ROI of Cone Penetration Testing
CPT offers a significant return on investment. Because of efficient and effective data collection, CPT significantly reduces the time and cost compared to traditional drilling methods. With adaptable systems such as Vertek’s S4 Sounding System and Drill Rig Conversion Kit, operators can use existing construction equipment or drill rigs, respectively. Vertek owners have reported a full return on investment in as little as 40 working days. Download our ROI calculator to estimate how fast you can earn your money back and begin churning a profit.
Utilize a Hybrid Site Investigation
CPT is also an effective tool for hybrid site characterization, combining physical and digital methods. It is not uncommon for engineers to request multiple investigation methods be utilized at a specific site. For instance, standard penetration testing (SPT) and CPT are often used in conjunction. SPT provides the physical collection of soil and “N”-value, whereas CPT uses a sensored probe with a conical tip that collect and measure three main measurements; tip resistance, sleeve friction, and pore pressure. With these series of sensors you can calculate:
- “N”-value
- Overburden
- Effective overburden
- Undrained shear strength
- Over consolidation ratio
- Friction angle
- Pore pressure ratio
- Coefficient of earth pressure
- Young’s Modulus
- Poisson’s Ratio
- Relative density
- Hydraulic conductivity
- Normalized uncorrected tip stress
- Normalized corrected tip stress
- Normalized friction ratio
- 1986 friction ratio behavior type
- 1990 friction ratio soil behavior type
- Preconsolidation stress
- QCI
- Fines content
- Classification index
Users with a drill rig can easily add CPT via the Drill Rig Conversion Kit.
Utilize the Highest Quality Data
With Vertek’s industry-leading CPT software, real-time in-situ data is displayed clearly on the user interface. The high-quality data collected is immediately available for processing, as opposed to physical collection methods which require analysis at a laboratory. Vertek CPT software offers real-time visuals of four of the 13 data collection channels and data points every five millimeters. Data files can be processed for visual or text measurements for each line of data to the end of exploration.
In conclusion, CPT is a trusted and effective method for collecting high-resolution geotechnical data. CPT can provide significant cost savings through efficient data collection. CPT is also an effective tool for hybrid site characterization to determine if ground improvement or stabilization techniques are required. If you’re looking to implement cone penetration testing, choose equipment built by former CPT providers. Choose Vertek. Contact us for a quote.
Vertek equipment is proudly designed, manufactured, and serviced in the United States. As former CPT providers, we know the importance of having reliable support while you are in the field, and it’s why we are always just a phone call away for the life of your equipment.