The plate bearing test, also known as the plate load test, has been used to determine the load-bearing capacity of the soil. Learn about the
The plate load test helps to determine the soil’s load-bearing capacity as well as the actual strength of the soil. The plate load test has been performed in those cases where the size of the ground particles is large or the ground has a firmer texture. In the design and assessment of the working platforms, the plate load test has been applied, in which the ground properties have been determined. As a result, it has been ensured that the platform will be stable when in use. The plate load test should be performed correctly to meet all the safety criteria.
The plate load test can be carried out at the level of the foundation under a working platform. A circular steel plate has been positioned on the ground in this type of in-situ test and an increasing load has been applied until the plate starts to settle.
Equipment required for the Plate Bearing Test
Several equipment are crucial to perform the plate bearing test, which are as follows:
➢ A steel plate is required, which should be at least 300 mm square and 6 mm thick. ➢ A hydraulic jack is needed, along with a capacity of 1.5 times the anticipated test load. ➢ A pump is also required. ➢ A set of steel shims is also required, which should be at least 6 mm thick. ➢ Pressure gauge and dial gauge are needed, and the dial gauge should have a range of 0-250 mm and an accuracy of 0.02 mm. ➢ A reaction truss or reaction beam is also needed for the plate bearing test. ➢ A loading frame which has the capacity of 1.5 times the anticipated test load is required. In this context, the loading frame should be designed to attach to the ground, as a result, the load can be applied to the center of the plate. ➢ Equipment for the loading platform is also required. ➢ A tape measure or steel rule is also needed which should be at least 3 m long. ➢ Apart from the above equipment, numerous other equipment are also required, which include a plumb bob, a tripod, a spirit level, a set of wrenches, a hammer, and a clean and dry cloth.
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