Geotechnical Field Tests
ESP undertakes geotechnical field testing to obtain reliable ground data that informs safe and effective engineering design
We offer a range geotechnical field tests; which include in-situ shear strength, light weight cone penetration, California Bearing Ratio and Plate Load. Contact us to discuss how this capability can help you.
Our Geotechnical Field Test Services
Recent Geotechnical Field Tests
Case Study 1: Remedial earthworks on a residential plot, South Wales
ESP delivered geotechnical field testing and validation works in South Wales to support remedial earthworks on a residential plot affected by over-excavation and unstable ground conditions.
We designed, supervised and validated a bespoke reinstatement solution, incorporating controlled engineered fill placement and compaction under challenging groundwater conditions. In-situ plate load testing and analytical assessment were undertaken to confirm bearing capacity and settlement performance, providing robust verification of the ground response.
We ensured the works met design requirements and secured NHBC approval, enabling the safe continuation of construction with minimal programme delay.
Geotechnical Field Tests We Offer
The Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP)
An instrument that drives a metal cone into the ground by repeatedly striking it with a weight dropped from height. It is designed for the rapid in-situ measurement of ground conditions to allow design of road pavements and other surfaces such as multi use games areas.
The simple design means that the DCP is quick and easy to use, portable and suitable for use in locations where access may be difficult. An 8kg hammer is lifted and dropped through a height of 575mm. The distance pf penetration of the cone tip is then recorded and the cycle repeated. Continuous measurements can be made to a depth of approximately 850mm or when ground conditions permit with extension shafts fitted, to a maximum depth of 2m. Where strata have different strengths, the boundaries can be identified and the thickness determined.
A typical test takes only a few minutes, so the instrument provides a very efficient method of obtaining information which can be correlated to provide an estimate of undrained shear strength (Cu), CBR value, SPT value and other related empirical values useful in geotechnical and pavement design.
The Plate Loading Test (PLT)
A small scale test used to measure the stiffness of the ground beneath the test. It comprises the controlled loading of the steel plate and the measurement of the settlement caused.
The results can be used to inform bearing pressure of shallow foundations and to determine the appropriate spring stiffness for design of raft foundation or pavement slabs. It is particularly useful to determine appropriate design values for soils with gravel or larger particle sizes. Earth Science Partnership’s engineers undertake Plate Load Tests in accordance with BS 1377 Part 9: 1990.
The test measures the penetration by applying a vertical load to steel bearing plates. The test can be undertaken using either a 4×4 vehicle or excavator plant as kentledge, dependant on the load or plate diameter that is required.
The California Bearing Ratio (CBR)
A test devised to aid the design of the pavements. Originally that was highway pavements but the test was soon adopted for use of pavements of many types including: concrete slabs for airport and airfield runways and aprons, railway permanent way, temporary roads, working platforms piling platforms, concrete slabs for warehousing etc. and Multi Use Games Areas (MUGA) within schools and sport centres.
The test measures the stiffness of the soil and its provides an indication of its capability to withstand transient loads; i.e. those typically associated with pavements where vehicles load the ground through the pavement for relatively short periods. The test involves measuring the load required to push a plunger of given diameter, at a defined rate and to a prescribed depth in to the soil subject to the testing.
Earth Science Partnership engineers can measure the CBR of a soil directly via in-situ testing from a 4×4 vehicle, through correlation with Dynamic Cone Penetrometer results and on remoulded samples of soil in the laboratory testing. The results of the testing are used to design an appropriate construction pavement prior to the installation of the surface feature (tarmac/concrete/astro turf etc.).
Explore our project gallery to see our team in action. From initial investigations to final delivery, these images represent our commitment to high quality data collection and the professional standards we bring to every project.
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We are proud to serve as a trusted partner for a diverse range of clients, delivering specialist geotechnical and geo-environmental expertise to the UK’s most ambitious projects.
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We operate within a framework of professional memberships and industry-recognised accreditations, including ISO9001 and ISO 14001, ensuring that our technical delivery is consistently aligned with the highest standards of quality and governance.
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Earth Science Partnership is a leading expert in geotechnical field tests assessments across Wales, England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland. We have decades of combined experience in our team of industry-recognised experts.
Our work, for homeowners, land owners, developers, and investors is completed in compliance with the latest, relevant industry best practices and guidance. We understand that every project is unique, so we deliver our services tailored to your needs.
If you’re looking for a geotechnical field test, the ESP team can support you with a straightforward, cost-effective solution for your planning permission application.
Author
I am a UK Registered Ground Engineering Specialist and Chartered Engineering & Environmental Geologist with significant experience in Site Hazard Assessment, Remediation, Design, and Implementation across the Geoenvironmental and Geotechnical sectors in the UK and abroad.
I often work in multi-disciplinary teams advising other engineering and design professionals on the implications of ground hazards.
My work involves undertaking design, planning, management, and reporting of ground investigations. For example investigations for new developments and many bespoke studies including:
- Assessment of hydrogeological settings, materials for earthworks.
- Impact of abandoned mine workings.
- Remediation and stability assessment of soil and rock slopes/landslides, most notably the Pantteg Landslide in the Swansea Valley for which I have guided and presented assessments to Local Authority officers and the general public.