Geotechnical testing is performed by geotechnical engineers, geotechnical technicians, or engineering geologists to understand the characteristics such as the physical properties that exist underneath a work site.
An essential part of the planning and constructing building and infrastructure projects (comprising various types of structures as a foundation, roads, bridges, excavation pit, land reclamation, beach nourishment, etc.) is the knowledge of the subsurface conditions.
The geotechnical investigation with its respective services shall be carried out. Their nature and extent depend on the structure’s type, the size of the structure, and the expected ground conditions.
Geotechnical testing is conducted by site characterization, laboratory testing, and professional interpretation of data obtained to complete the design and construction of the site improvement.
Tests generally fall into 4 categories, test pits, trenching, boring and in situ testing.
Test Pits
Test pits are much like you would expect, a pit is dug either manually or with an excavator in order to reveal the subsurface conditions to the depth desired. Generally, this is for siting shallow foundations.
Trenching
Trenching is similar to test pits except that in this case, the pit is elongated over some distance in order to establish how the subsurface conditions change over various parts of the worksite. This method allows for identification of different sedimentary changes over a longer distance.
A range of soil samplers can be used to extract test samples from these test pits for lab analysis and visual identification.
Boring
Borings, usually deployed by a drill rig and drill crew, can vary in diameter and provide the opportunity to assess density through standard penetration testing (SPT) to physically remove soil or rock samples for assessment and testing.
Borings provide the advantage of assessing field density and letting you observe the actual materials extracted. Generally, soil samples from the above tests are taken to a lab where they are evaluated. Borings offer you the opportunity to set piezometers to assess groundwater table seasonal fluctuations.
In Situ Testing
In situ testing methods include penetration tests such as Standard Penetration Tests (SPT), which penetrate via drilling, percussion-based investigation techniques, sonic vibratory drilling methods, and various static direct push Cone Penetrometer Testing (CPT).
In situ testing provides the advantages of generating a more accurate assessment of subsurface conditions allowing for better data analysis and informed geotechnical design.
The right test should be specified for the right situation or utilizing multiple tools to develop an accurate assessment of the subsurface strata. Understanding the different types of testing methods available and the advantages of each can significantly reduce uncertainties and future construction.
If you are unfamiliar with CPT, you can help your clients to understand the advantages of CPT data and expand your business by offering these services. Your clients will be able to reduce their construction risk and cost by having high resolution data, reducing their uncertainty in the subsurface conditions they may encounter.
The other investigation methods have their purpose and capabilities just as CPT does. However, CPT offers a safe, high production, high resolution data set that other methods do not.
For instance, Vertek’s Heavyweight CPT Truck is the most efficient way to collect CPT data. With a powerful seismic beam, easy to use controls, and climate-controlled cabin, this Heavyweight CPT Truck can take your site investigation business to the next level.
If you are interested in expanding your business to offer various exploration methods, CPT offers a great subsurface tool with a quick return on investment. Check out Vertek’s product page to explore what we offer.
General FAQs
What are the geotechnical testing types?
Geotechnical testing methods are used to get critical information about the physical properties of the substrate, rock, and soil around a potential construction site.
Types of Soil Tests for Building Construction
– Moisture content test.
– Atterberg limits tests.
– Specific gravity of soil.
– Dry density of soil.
– Compaction test
What is geotechnical testing used for in construction?
Geotechnical testing is done to investigate subsurface conditions and materials, determine the physical and chemical properties of the earth materials, evaluate slopes and soil deposits’ stability, assess the risks posed by site conditions, design foundations, and monitor site conditions and foundation construction.
Who uses geotechnical testing?
Geotechnical engineers use tools, such as the cone penetration test (CPT), to estimate the amount of skin and end bearing resistance available in the subsurface. There are many types of foundations, including piles, caissons, piers, drilled shafts, and earth stabilized columns.
Why is geotechnical testing performed?
Geotechnical testing is conducted by geotechnical
engineers, geotechnical technicians, or engineering geologists to understand the characteristics, such as the physical properties that exist underneath a work site.