PLATE LOAD TESTING

The plate loading test covers the determination of the vertical settlement and strength properties of soil and rock masses in situ by recording the load and the corresponding settlement when a rigid plate is loading the ground.

This section covers plate loading tests carried out on a thoroughly levelled ground surface or on the bottom of an excavation at a certain depth or the bottom of a prebored, large diameter borehole.

The test is applicable in all soils, fills and rocks but is normally not suitable for very soft cohesive soils.