Dynamic Cone Penetrometer DCP

The Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) is a device designed for the rapid in-situ measurement of the structural properties of existing road pavements constructed of unbound materials. The robust and simple design ensure that the DCP is quick and easy to use, portable and suitable for use in locations where access may be difficult.

 

Correlations have been established between measurements with the DCP and conventional in-situ CBR so that results can be interpreted and compared with CBR specifications for pavement design. A typical test takes only a few minutes and therefore the instrument provides a very efficient method of obtaining information which would normally require the digging of test pits.

 

This test method is used to assess in situ strength of undisturbed soil and compacted materials (or both). The penetration rate of the 8-kg DCP can be used to estimate in-situ CBR (California Bearing Ratio), to identify strata thickness, shear strength of strata, and other material characteristics.

 

The test is performed by driving a metal cone into the ground by repeated striking it with a 17.6 lb (8 Kg)weight dropped from a distance of 2.26 feet (575 mm). The penetration of the cone is measured after each blow andis recorded to provide a continuous measure of shearing resistance up to 5 feet below the ground surface

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