Static Plate Load Tester

Static Plate Load Tests can be utilized in earthworks and foundation engineering, as well as road construction to determine load settlement lines and evaluate the deformability and the load capacity of the soil. When using the static load tester to evaluate a soil layer, the circular load plate is repeatedly loaded and relieved by means of a load device, a hydraulic pump and a pneumatic cylinder. This load is applied to the plate in 6 to 8 equal loading steps. Settlement of the plate is measured by the tester consisting of a carrier frame with a sensing arm and dial gauge. As a counterbalance, a heavy-weight vehicle is used.

The indentation of the load plate into the soil, generated with every load step, is indicated via the dial gauge. The settlement of every load step and the corresponding mean normal stress below the load plate appear as test values. After the last load step the relief and a second loading similar to the first loading takes place. For the test evaluation these values are shown in a corresponding diagram as load settlement lines.

The modulus of deformation Ev is determined from the load settlement line of the first load (Ev1) and the second load (Ev2). By comparing the initial deformation from Ev1 and the subsequent deformation of Ev2 provides an indication of the compaction attained. The test results and the load settlement lines can be read with the HD-4139.3F Plate Load tester directly on the display and can be printed out immediately at the site via a thermal printer or be revised later in the office on a PC.

HD-4139.3F Plate Load Tester Features:

• Handy measuring instrument with extra large illuminated display, which is easily viewed in all light conditions and a thermal printer within an aluminum case
• Intuitive menu navigation with a clearly arranged display
• Evaluation, displaying and printout immediately at the site shows Ev1, Ev2, Ev1/Ev2 and settlement curve
• PC-connection, Software for creation of professional test protocols
• USB interface for easy data transfer, GPS for accurate localization of the measuring point
• Modular design

Unit Includes:

• Hydraulic pump with 100 kN cylinder and 150 mm lift with a high-pressure hose of 2 m in length
• 1 set of hydraulic cylinder extension pieces, plug-type connection (one each of 40mm, 90mm, 120mm, 160mm in length; two of 60mm in length)
• 1 pressure plate with magnetic holder and upper ball-and-socket joint load plate
• Load plate with handles and adjustable bubble level

For more information about Humboldt's plate load testing solutions, click here.