PLATE LOAD TEST METHODOLOGY

FIELD INVESTIGATION

METHOD

A test plate size of 500mm square plate was used for the finding out K Value as well as settlement for the compacted area. The plate was placed at the compacted flooring and subjected to incremental loading. Settlement at each increment of load was measured and load – settlement curves plotted. The bearing capacity and the settlement of the foundation were determined with the help of the load - settlement curves for the test plate. The tests were conducted as per IS: 1888 – 1982 method.

Procedure

• Rough mild steel plate 500mm square plate in shape will be used. The test plate was seated at the center over a compacted layer.
• Load was applied on the plate by a hydraulic jack of 30 ton capacity by reaction obtained from the Truck. Pressure on the jack was recorded from a calibrated pressure gauge placed between the jack and hydraulic pump.
• Loads were applied on the test plate in gradual increments.
• It was decided to go up to maximum design load or till the settlement rate is less than 0.02 mm/min had occurred, whichever was earlier.
• At each load increment, settlement was recorded at time intervals of 1, 2.25, 4, 6.25, 9 min by means of two dial gauges with 0.01 mm least count. placed diametrically opposite directions on the plate. The settlements were recorded with reference to a datum bar fixed over concrete supports.
• The load –Settlement curve for the test plate was plotted from the obtained test data are enclosed.
• The maximum allowable settlement would be 25 mm.