Seismic CPT System

Fast, Accurate Seismic Measurements

VERTEK's Seismic Cone Penetrometers provide fast, accurate measurement of shear and compression wave speed profiles while performing a standard CPT (tip, sleeve, and pore pressure) test. The seismic-CPT data provides useful information for prediction of dynamic response from earthquakes, machine vibrations, and explosive detonations. The wave speeds and moduli derived from seismic CPT measurements aid in the determination of soil liquefaction potential and improve the interpretation of surface seismic surveys by providing wavespeed profiles as a function of depth.

Fully Integrated

VERTEK's seismic technology is offered as an integral component of our CPT systems. VERTEK offers specially designed hardware and software for use with the Seismic CPT System, including tri-axial velocity gauges for wave monitoring, software modules for data acquisition and interpretation, and special heavy duty seismic trigger assemblies. VERTEK's automatic seismic wave generators, available on our CPT trucks, make it possible to generate repeatable shear or compression waves without leaving the operator's console.

Simple, Reliable Operation

The seismic geophones are mounted inside the cone penetrometer, a simple method that requires no field assembly. Data gathered down-hole goes directly to VERTEK’s data acquisition system, the DataPack 2000, or a field computer. With a complete VERTEK seismic CPT system, generating seismic information during a CPT test can be as simple as pausing at the desired depth and pushing a button.

VERTEK's Seismic CPT System records seismic waves while conducting a CPT test. Seismic waves generated on the surface are detected down-hole by three geophones mounted inside the penetrometer. CPT seismic wave traces have been recorded at depths up to 300 feet below ground surface. The CPT test is paused briefly to conduct the seismic tests at specific depths.

Individual seismic tests include the recording of two opposing shear (S) waves and one compression (P) wave. The seismic test data is then analyzed to create a profile for seismic wave speeds, damping characteristics, and soil strength parameters.

VERTEK's optional seismic wave generators can be built into the front lift pad for enhanced energy transfer into the soil. The wave generator requires no setup time and not only eliminates the physical strain associated with traditional seismic surveys, but also dramatically increases productivity and test repeatability.