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Vertek Team

Cone Penetration Testing Applications: Dams and Levees

Vertek Team · January 10, 2023 ·

Dams and levees are essential to our society. They protect us from floods and other natural disasters, and the consequences can be disastrous if they fail. Cone Penetration Testing, or CPT, is a subsurface investigation method that can be used to determine the strength and stability of the ground supporting these massive structures. This high-resolution data can help geotechnical engineers identify potential problems and implement mitigation strategies. Keep reading to learn how you can leverage CPT to support the nation’s infrastructure and expand your business.

The Benefits of Cone Penetration Testing

CPT involves statically advancing a sensored probe with a conical tip up to hundreds of feet (or less) below the ground subsurface to collect in-situ readings of three main measurements: tip resistance, sleeve friction, and pore pressure. These measurements can then be used to determine the sediments strength and the structure’s stability by calculating several values which can generate a soil behavior type. You can learn more here. CPT is not only efficient and effective, but also much faster and is less disruptive than traditional drilling methods.

Vertek offers low ground pressure systems such as our tracked CPT systems and S4 CPT Sounding System that are ideal for such areas. The S4 is particularly popular among new and experienced CPT operators because it can mount to a variety of standard construction equipment equipped with auxiliary hydraulics.

Using Cone Penetration Testing to Support Dams and Levees

When constructing dams or levees, whether for a new project or the evaluation of an existing structure, a CPT investigation can be used to determine the subsurface sediment strength and the structure’s stability. This information is essential for ensuring these structures are safe and still sound to withstand tremendous loads from climatic events.

With the recent $3 billion investment by the federal government for dam-related projects, there will be a great need to conduct sensitive subsurface investigations to understand and evaluate these structures and if risk mitigation efforts are necessary. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation for example uses Vertek CPT systems to assess dams and levees around the U.S., This work will continue to expand to geotechnical firms and drilling companies in the years ahead.

Learn more about the business of CPT with our free guide and download our ROI calculator to see how fast you can earn a return on your investment. Have questions or ready to purchase? Reach out to us here.

Soil Compaction Test the Easy Way

Vertek Team · December 21, 2022 ·

What is a soil compaction test?

Soil compaction happens when soil particles are pressed together, reducing pore space between them. Heavily compacted soils contain few large pores, less total pore volume, and a greater density. 

In the construction of high load structures such as dams, paved roadways, and construction projects that rely on the stability of embankments; soil compaction is used to increase soil strength.

Loose soil can be compacted by using mechanical equipment to remove air-voids, thereby densifying the soil and increasing its dry unit weight. 

There are a variety of different benefits to soil compaction, including: prevention of soil settlement and frost damage, increased ground stability, reduced hydraulic conductivity and mitigating undesirable settlement of structures, such as paved roads, foundations and piping.

A soil compaction test measures the density of the soil. This data then informs the design of foundations.

Field Tests for Soil Compaction Density 

Soil compaction tests are performed on-site and are necessary to determine if the compaction density is being reached.

There are several different types of field tests, each with advantages and disadvantages. A popular soil compaction test method is a dynamic cone penetration (DCP test) test.

In DCP testing, the pushing force is applied by manually dropping a single or dual mass weight (called the hammer) from a fixed height onto the push cone unit. The resulting downward movement is then measured. The basic DCP equipment is hand-portable and may be limited to test depths of 3-4 feet: this makes it a good choice for shallow testing applications such as roadbed construction and maintenance.

Since DCP is essentially hand-powered, it is low-cost and more portable. A traditional DCP test can be time consuming and leaves room for human error. Vertek’s Smart DCP Kit uses a smartphone app and a laser rangefinder to automatically count blows and measure, record, and plot depth.

From the smartphone, this data can be easily graphed in the field and transferred to a computer or client for reporting and analysis.

Automatic data collection saves time, increases accuracy, and means that the test can be efficiently completed by one person. Check out our video below to see how much more efficient the Vertek Smart DCP Kit makes DCP testing.

With Vertek’s Smart DCP Kit, you can quickly gather the data your customer needs, allowing you to complete more jobs. Read Eco Concrete Levelling’s Smart DCP testimonial here.

Ready for a quote? Contact us today!

FAQ on Compaction Tests

What is the purpose of a soil compaction test?

The test aims to establish the maximum dry density that may be attained for a given soil with a standard amount of compaction effort. When a series of soil samples are compacted at different water content, the plot usually shows a peak.

What is a soil compaction test?

Soil compaction refers to combining all the empty spaces and processes within the soil. Soil compaction occurs when soil particles are pressed together, reducing pore space between them. Heavily compacted soils contain few large pores, less total pore volume, and a greater density. Compacted soil has a reduced rate of both water infiltration and drainage.

What is the best soil for compaction?

Cohesive (clay), granular (sand), and organic (for planting) are the three primary soil groups, but only two of these, cohesive and granular, are suitable for compaction. 

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Cone Penetration Testing and Ground Improvement Quality Assurance

Vertek Team · October 20, 2022 ·

Ground improvement and stabilization are two important aspects of any construction or engineering project. When it comes to ground improvement, several different techniques can be used, which can be complex and require a high degree of precision. Cone penetration testing (CPT) and ground improvement are becoming synonymous as more engineering firms and government agencies adopt CPT.

Any error or inaccuracies can lead to severe problems down the line. That’s why businesses that work in this field need to have a robust quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) program in place. Many different products are available to businesses in the ground improvement and stabilization field, but CPT is one of the most accurate and efficient methods available to characterize the density of the sediments.

Vertek offers a wide range of CPT systems used to conduct in-situ testing for soil strength and cohesiveness. The system consists of 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

The Need for Ground Improvement and Stabilization

Ground improvement is improving the mechanical properties of existing soils or fill material. It can also be improved through the use of prefabricated piles and structural material replacement. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as:

● Vibro Compaction

● Vacuum Consolidation

● Preloading of soil

● Soil stabilization by heating or vitrification

● Ground freezing

● Vibro-replacement stone columns

● Mechanically stabilized earth structures

● Soil nailing

● Micro-piles

● Grouting

In construction and engineering projects, ground improvement helps to ensure the ground on which the project is built on can withstand things like seismic events, creation of deep foundations for superstructures, and land expansion into bodies of water. Similarly, ground stabilization improves soil stability and can be achieved through multiple different methods. That’s why businesses need to have a strong QA/QC program in place to define and validate ground improvement activities through the ground improvement cycle. If not appropriately managed, improper ground improvement and stabilization can lead to problems, such as:

● Erosion

● Pipe breaks or leaks

● Damage to underground utilities

● Sinking or settling of the ground

● Failure of retaining walls or other structures

If you do not utilize CPT as part of your site investigation or QA/QC program, you could be at a greater risk of experiencing one of these issues. All these problems can be costly and time-consuming to fix, but by utilizing CPT, businesses can avoid these problems and ensure that they know the subsurface characteristics of the ground they are building on.

The quality assurance and quality control of ground improvement and stabilization are essential to the success of any project. We hope you can see the value of cone penetration testing and ground improvement. Vertek can help you ensure the quality of your project and avoid potential problems. If you have any questions about our product or how it can benefit your business, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would be more than happy to discuss your needs and our solutions.

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.

Drill Rigs and CPT: History and Application of these Technologies 

Vertek Team · October 3, 2022 ·

In the 18th century, drill rigs began to be used for oil and gas exploration. The first recorded use of a drill rig for this purpose was in Pennsylvania in 1859, used to drill almost 70 feet to strike oil. After this successful drilling operation, drill rigs began to be used worldwide for oil and gas exploration. Today, drill rigs are used worldwide for various applications, including water well drilling, site characterization, natural resource exploration, and supporting construction projects.  

Cone penetration testing (CPT) was developed in Europe in the 1950s and has been matured though use and technology to be a high-resolution tool to conduct in-situ testing for soil strength and properties. CPT uses a sensored probe with a conical tip that collects and measures 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 

The data is collected every centimeter by the in-situ sensors and displayed in real-time. The processed data is then used to model the subsurface characteristics and inform the design managers of the soil conditions and bearing capacity. 

This allows geotechnical engineers to obtain critical information on the strength and stability of sediments and make informed decisions to mitigate risk. CPT is an important tool for geotechnical engineers as it can provide information on the potential problems that could occur during design and construction. 

As the global demand for new and improved infrastructure continues to grow, so does the need for more efficient and safe investigation methods. While there have been many advances in drilling technology, some of the most significant changes have been in drill rigs and CPT systems. With over 150 years of drilling history, rigs have come a long way from simple wooden structures with steam engines. With today’s drill rigs offered by Acker Drill Rigs, CME, Mobile Drill Intl., among others, CPT can easily be integrated. The choice between offering CPT or standard drilling is no longer a zero-sum decision.  

Vertek’s Drill Rig Conversion Kit has changed the game for drillers who previously could only offer traditional drilling methods. The Drill Rig Conversion Kit includes a simple screw on adapter to allow for pushing and pulling CPT rods. No modification to the drill rig is required. In less than a day of training, drillers can become proficient in operating the CPT system. 

By leveraging your existing drill rig, you can offer an advanced method of investigation at a fraction of the cost of a CPT truck or track rig. Offering CPT in conjunction with standard penetration testing will increase your ability to bid on more jobs, grow your business, provide your customers with more capabilities, and provide unmatched quality that geotechnical and civil engineers will trust.  

Ready for a quote? Contact us today! 

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. 

The Value of Cone Penetration Testing

Vertek Team · August 30, 2022 ·

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. 

CPT’s role in building the future of American infrastructure 

Vertek Team · August 1, 2022 ·

Over the past ten years, there has been a dramatic decline in infrastructure spending, but that has changed with the investment of nearly $2 trillion into infrastructure. As local, state, and federal agencies plan projects, you can leverage cone penetration testing (CPT) to help contribute to the development of US-based infrastructure and increase your revenue.  

The United States has a history of building its way to prosperity, with canals, railroads, and highways that served as pathways for people and commerce. Today, infrastructure includes high-speed internet networks, airports, ports, power grids, and other systems crucial to economic vitality. With major infrastructure projects planned across the nation, CPT can help to ensure those projects are done right and will be effective for years to come. Some of the benefits of using cone penetration testing with infrastructure development include: 

  • Identifying potential risks earlier rather than later. 
  • High resolution subsurface site characterization. 
  • Reduction in engineering safety factors on projects. 
  • Preventing unexpected delays while saving considerable time and money. 
  • Information that can be crucial when developing infrastructure projects that are high-risk or high impact. 

By understanding the latest trends in US infrastructure development, you can identify opportunities to expand your business. 

U.S.-based Infrastructure Trends in 2022 

With an infrastructure score of C-minus, it is clear there is much work to be done to improve America’s aging infrastructure. Take bridges for example. The ASCE reports that 178 million trips per day are taken on bridges that are “structurally deficient.” Similarly, America’s “deteriorating roads are forcing the nation’s motorists to spend nearly $130 billion each year on extra vehicle repairs and operating costs.” 

Climate change is also expected to significantly impact infrastructure. Weather can affect soil characteristics by causing things like erosion, which can significantly weaken currently built and future infrastructure projects. CPT can help with the design of infrastructure projects both onshore and nearshore which are particularly susceptible to these conditions. 

The U.S. Congress and Biden Administration recognized America’s need for a significant infrastructure investment in passing the “Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act” in 2021. Some $350 billion is allocated to highway programs alone through 2025. Another $17 billion is to be spent on improving port infrastructure and waterways. Many of these projects will require CPT testing and design before building new structures or improving older ones.  

Improving Infrastructure Development with Cone Penetration Testing 

CPT is an easy and accurate method of investigating sediment during the planning stages of infrastructure development. CPT data helps prevent future problems with dams, bridges, buildings, energy transmission lines, airports, and other infrastructure projects. Forward-thinking CPT investigations can prevent unexpected delays and saves considerable time and money in infrastructure development.  

The future of the US infrastructure is bright. Vertek offers solutions that save thousands in subcontractor costs based on your scope of work. We work with various industries to improve their capabilities by offering our expertise in cone penetration testing for geotechnical engineering projects to enhance future structural projects. If you are new to CPT, or wanting to grow your existing CPT business, check out The Business of CPT.  

As former CPT providers, we build systems that are easy to use, and built to last. Whether you need something smaller and modular, or a heavy-duty CPT truck, we have a solution for you.  

Contact us today to discuss your needs and our solutions.  

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. 

Cone Penetration Testing a Win for Bridge Replacement

Vertek Team · June 14, 2022 ·

When VTrans (Vermont Agency of Transportation) personnel undertook the bridge replacement project at the interchange of I-89, US 2 and US 7 in Colchester, they knew they would need to bring their A-GaME. The agency had used Cone Penetration Testing (CPT) in the past to supplement traditional boring methods, but based on its understanding of the regional geology, site history and perceived likelihood of encountering soft clay deposits, they decided to incorporate CPT as a key component of the subsurface investigation for the project.

According to Stephen Madden, geotechnical engineer at VTrans, the use of CPT to provide high-quality and near continuous data had the following benefits:

  • Aided in seismic site classification
  • Improved estimation of undrained shear strength
  • Allowed for direct design of driven pile foundations
  • Allowed for a higher resistance factor to be selected for stability analyses, resulting in a more efficient foundation design

The geotechnical investigation program included CPTu, Seismic CPT (SCPTu) and traditional borings. (The “u” indicates that pore pressure measurements were taken). The boring/CPTu location plan was created such that CPTu locations were adjacent to borings at the planned bridge abutment locations and near the I-89 northbound US 2 interchange. CPTu soundings replaced borings along the I-89 southbound off ramp to US 2. The CPTu locations were strategically selected for areas where deep glaciolacustrine clay was anticipated to potentially influence the seismic design of the bridge at infrastructure components, and where the presence of tall embankment fills could lead to settlement and stability issues.

Photo credit: U.S. DOT and VTRANS

“The data obtained from the CPTu and SCPTu were used to justify selecting a higher resistance factor for stability analyses of the MSE walls at the proposed abutment locations due to the well-defined subsurface stratigraphy and geotechnical parameters,” explains Madden. “Additionally, we were able to use the measurements from the SCPTu soundings to designate a Seismic Site Class of D and Seismic Performance Zone 1, both of which resulted in time and cost savings in the design of the replacement structure over traditional borings alone.”

While the use of CPT offered several benefits to the site investigation and subsequent analysis and design for the project, there were challenges including the presence of obstructions, identification of the refusal layer, and execution of dissipation testing in low-permeability clay. Lessons learned from these challenges will be helpful for future projects in similar soils.

In the end, CPT provided value above and beyond that of SPT borings due to the continuous profile and the improved reliability that the CPT data provided. What’s more, the CPT program was implemented over a single day and resulted in direct costs savings of $6,025.

So, what’s the key takeaway according to VTrans?

When developing a geotechnical exploration program, it is critical to understand the capabilities and limitations of the exploration technology and the specific characteristics of the project site. One size does not fit all! The reward for this effort on the I-89 interchange project was the time and cost savings realized for VTrans that resulted from a successful and efficient exploration program.

Information for this article was provided by Stephen Madden of VTrans, and Melissa E. Landon, Ph.D., P.E., and Chris Benda, P.E., of Golder Associates USA Inc., Member of WSP.

Original source: U.S. DOT Federal Highway Administration. June 14, 2022 newsletter

CPT Applications: Renewable Energy

Vertek Team · May 19, 2022 ·

Nations are racing to increase renewable energy production and the United States in no different. According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, renewable energy production doubled between 2000 – 2020. While wind turbines and solar fields seem to pop up overnight, there is immense preparation before they are established. Part of this preparation is a site investigation to understand what soil conditions exist and what mitigation efforts need to be taken to support the construction of these massive structures and the equipment access to transport and construct them.

This is where cone penetration testing (CPT) comes in. CPT can help identify potential weak spots in the sediment deposits that could lead to slope failure, such as equipment or foundations in non-cohesive materials. By identifying potential problems in advance, engineers can take steps to correct them and ensure that the entire project is a success.

Use of CPT in Clean Energy

CPT is a type of soil testing that involves using a conical-tipped probe to measure the resistance of soil during penetration. CPT is used extensively in the evaluation of soil for clean energy projects. It is used to study the seismic shear wave impact of earthquakes in soil and evaluate the strength and stability of earth structures and dams.

Earthen dam

Additionally, CPT can be used to assess the suitability of sediments for the installation of wind turbines and solar panels, as well as the strength of the soil where heavy equipment such as cranes need to travel. Ensuring that the soil is suitable for these installations can be critical to their longevity and potentially reduce risk and costs incurred due to unstable soil conditions or failures. CPT is an efficient and cost-effective subsurface investigation method to ensure a high-resolution site characterization.

Wind

CPT is an essential tool for assessing soil suitability for clean energy projects. Typically, CPT investigations for wind energy systems can help to ensure that the foundations are adequately designed for the existing sediment. CPT data is also leveraged to build temporary roadways capable of supporting the weight of turbines and cranes. Given the large swaths of land used for wind turbines, Vertek’s CPT trucks are perfect for maximizing production. 

Terracon conducting CPT with a Vertek CPT Truck

As part of the design or pre-construction phase of a wind turbine project, CPT can help ensure that selected wind turbines are constructed to minimize the risk of foundation failure. It can also help identify areas where the combination of sediment type and groundwater may need to be considered. Utilizing Standard Penetration Testing (SPT) technologies may miss these subsurface zones leading to additional maintenance or construction costs down the road. Overall, CPT site investigations can better inform the design and construction saving money and schedule for a project.  

Solar

CPT is a valuable tool that can assess the soil properties at a spot where solar energy technology is being considered. CPT can help inform solar designers determine the suitability of a location for this technology by providing information on the soil strength, moisture content, and density.

CPT operators investigating solar sites which are often shallow investigations on undeveloped sites prefer a modular system like Vertek’s S4 CPT Sounding System. The S4 push frame can be attached to various types of standard construction equipment and shipped between job sites with other construction equipment. The S4’s modularity, size, and power are perfect for accessing challenging terrain with existing construction equipment.

CPT Supporting Renewable Energy Infrastructure

The U.S. Energy Information Administration “projects that the share of renewables in the U.S. electricity generation mix will increase from 21% in 2020 to 42% in 2050.” This will require an enormous expansion of renewable energy infrastructure that will require high resolution and efficient subsurface investigations. Engineering and construction firms’ number one goal is to mitigate risk and with Vertek CPT systems, you can deliver the data they need to reduce their project design and construction risk.

Check out our full product line here. New to CPT? Download The Business of CPT.

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