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Beyond the Basics: Contamination Detection and Other Applications of CPT Equipment

Cone Penetration Testing equipment was originally designed – and is still most commonly used – to characterize subsurface soil behavior types. But when you invest in CPT equipment, you are getting the capability to do much more. A variety of sensors and in-situ samplers can be integrated into CPT modules, making CPT equipment a versatile and efficient choice for contamination detection, environmental site assessment, and other field applications. CPT equipment has several advantages over conventional hollow stem auger drilling and percussion drilling based methods, especially in contaminated soils. Specialized CPT tests can identify contaminants and determine the physical extent of the contamination with minimal disturbance of the soil, thus avoiding costly disposal of drill cuttings and minimizing contact between field personnel and potentially hazardous materials. Here’s an overview of some tests and technologies that you can harness via CPT equipment: Temperature: Temperature data is obviously useful in locating zones of different ground temperature, for example frozen soil. However, it can also help to identify soil contaminants that generate heat due to chemical or biological activity. Electrical Resistivity: The electrical properties of soil are changed when the soil is contaminated. For example, soils containing non-aqueous-phase (NAPL) compounds exhibit higher resistivity than normal, while soils containing dissolved organic compounds such as can be found in landfill leachates have significantly lower resistivity. Fluorescence Detection: Most hydrocarbons produce fluorescence when irradiated with certain kinds of light. Thus, hydrocarbon contamination can be efficiently detected by integrating LEDs of a particular wavelength (or sometimes lasers) into CPT cone modules. The detected wavelength of the fluorescent response to the excitation source is graphed in real time and is used to determine the areas of interest and further define contaminants. The integrated camera or video camera module can also be used to visually inspect in-situ characteristics such as [...]

By smadi66|December 1st, 2019|Geotechnical Iowa, Geotechnical Kansas, Soil Testing, Geotechnical Services, Geotechnical Delaware, Geotechnical Idaho, Geotechnical Indiana, Geotechnical Louisiana, Geotechnical Kentucky, Geotechnical Illinois, Geotechnical Georgia, Geotechnical Florida|0 Comments

Understanding the Relationship between SPT Data and CPT Data

As you know, Cone Penetration Testing is not the only method for determining the mechanical properties of soil. Another method is the Standard Penetration Test, or SPT: in this test, a borehole is drilled to a desired depth, then a hollow sampler is inserted and driven downwards with a hammer. The hammer blows are counted until the sampler travels the desired depth (usually 18”) – this number, denoted NSPT, indicates the mechanical properties of the soil. As with CPT data, a handful of corrections are commonly applied: for example, the N60 value indicates NSPT data corrected for the mechanical efficiency of a manual hammer, estimated at 60% at shallow overburden conditions. Since SPT is one of the most common in-situ soil testing methods, you may find it necessary to compare information from both SPT and CPT tests, or convert from one set of parameters to the other, for example from SPT N60 values to CPT tip resistance values. Several methods have been proposed for calculating this relationship. Below are two of the most frequently used: Robertson and Campanella: This method for correlating SPT and CPT data uses the following relationship between SPT N60 data and CPT tip resistance: (qc/pa)/N60 qc = tip resistance (psi) pa = atmospheric pressure (psi) Soil behavior type can be determined from this equation based on the following table: This is perhaps the simplest method for relating the results of these two tests, but it can cause some confusion when the results fall on the border of two soil behavior type zones, or in situations where the ratio of CPT to SPT data could indicate one of several different soil types. Jefferies and Davies: This is a more robust method for determining SPT N-values based on CPT data, or vice versa. It avoids the discontinuities of [...]

By smadi66|December 1st, 2019|Geotechnical Kansas, CPT Data, Soil Testing, Geotechnical Idaho, Geotechnical Louisiana, Geotechnical Indiana, Geotechnical Maine, Geotechnical Kentucky, Geotechnical Illinois, Geotechnical Georgia, Geotechnical Maryland, Geotechnical Iowa|0 Comments

Human-Portable Hydraulic Power: The Vertek Lightweight CPT Push System

The Vertek Lightweight CPT Push System is the most portable hydraulic CPT push system on the market. Offering 10 tons of push force, yet compact enough to be transported and operated by a two-person team, this system is ideal for testing locations that would be inaccessible to a rig-based or truck-mounted system. Weighing only 480 pounds, the hydraulic load frame is can be transported to the job site via truck or small trailer, then unloaded and rolled to hard-to-access test locations by hand. The system is designed so that the handle weight is less than 25 lbs when tilted on its wheels for travel, and large tires make the system easy to roll on uneven ground. The hydraulic power pack and cylinders, weighing 430 lbs and 335 lbs respectively, are independent of the frame for ease of transportation. The system is easy to assemble and disassemble via hydraulic quick disconnects. The twin cylinders are coupled by a platen that can push or pull digital electronic or mechanical cones and water or soil samplers. The anchoring system includes four sturdy augers, a drive unit and all necessary tools. Watch the easy set-up and see the system at work in the video below. At Vertek CPT, we love to develop innovative yet practical CPT solutions with real ROI. Our Lightweight CPT Push System offers ultra-mobile yet robust hydraulic push power to bring your CPT business wherever you need to go. From lab applications to remote locations on rough terrain, this system is highly portable, economical, and provides enough depth and power for many types of soil tests. [/fusion_youtube]

By smadi66|November 29th, 2019|Geotechnical Iowa, Geotechnical Kansas, Geotechnical Louisiana, Geotechnical Maine, Geotechnical Massachusetts, Geotechnical Indiana, Geotechnical Kentucky, Geotechnical Illinois, Geotechnical Michigan, Geotechnical Maryland|0 Comments

Detecting a sinkhole: New device geared for homeowners – wave3.com-Louisville News, Weather & Sports

Detecting a sinkhole: New device geared for homeowners Karst map for the state of Kentucky (Source: Kentucky Geological Society)Karst map for the state of Kentucky (Source: Kentucky Geological Society) Map showing Karst in Indiana. (Source: Indiana Geological Survey)Map showing Karst in Indiana. (Source: Indiana Geological Survey) Matt Dettman developed MSEDS, short for Mechanical Sinkhole Early Detection System.Matt Dettman developed MSEDS, short for Mechanical Sinkhole Early Detection System.LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) - It could cost big bucks to detect whether a sinkhole could open up, but soon there may be a device developed in Kentucky to keep families safe nationwide.MORESLIDESHOW: How karst sinkholes formLearn how karst sinkholes form and whether or not you live in an at risk area.MoreGeological surveys to predict a sinkhole cost tens of thousands of dollars. Companies shell out $10,000 to $20,000 for a geotechnical and subsurface investigation before construction.The process isn't necessarily feasible for everyday people.However, a Western Kentucky University Geotechnical Engineer developed a device to detect what's happening beneath your feet.Karst terrain covers more than half of Kentucky. Karst sinkholes form when the bedrock of the Earth is slowly worn away by erosion.[SLIDESHOW: How karst sinkholes form]Under the top soil is a layer called the overburden. Under that is bedrock, which may seem tough and solid, but it's actually filled with cracks and crevices water is constantly seeping through and infiltrating. As the water erodes the bedrock, the overburden starts to fall down into the space left behind. Years later, all that's left is a thin layer and the potential for a sinkhole to open up.However, if there's a slab over the surface you may not know there's a problem until it's too late. That's why Matt Dettman developed MSEDS, short for Mechanical Sinkhole Early Detection System. Dettman is a WKU Associate Professor of Civil Engineering [...]

By smadi66|October 26th, 2017|Lexington, Bowling Green, Owensboro, Hopkinsville, Richmond, Florence, Sinkholes, Georgetown, Geotechnical Kentucky, Drilling, Drilling Kentucky, Louisville|0 Comments

MSD budgets $200 million for Ohio River Tunnel project – WDRB 41 Louisville News

The Metropolitan Sewer District is budgeting $200 million for the Ohio River Tunnel project to improve water quality in Louisville. LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) – The Metropolitan Sewer District is budgeting $200 million for the Ohio River Tunnel project to improve water quality in Louisville. According to Jacob Mathis, an MSD engineer and manager of this project, just a tenth-of-an-inch of rain can overwhelm parts of the sewer system in the district, sending stormwater and drainage straight into the Ohio River or Beargrass Creek. “In a typical year, there’d be four billion gallons of sewage released into these waterways,” Mathis said. In hopes to reduce sewer drainage across the country, the federal government is requiring communities to find ways to mitigate the damage by Dec. 31, 2020. If Louisville does not meet the deadline, the government could enforce fines or penalties. In response, MSD engineers devised a plan of three new basins in three different neighborhoods to store overflow. But there were concerns over how much that could interrupt construction, business and daily life. MSD decided to take a different route and came up with the Ohio River Tunnel project. “This project is one of the first of its kind in Louisville or even the state of Kentucky,” Mathis said. Engineers describe it as being on the same level and magnitude as the Ohio River bridges undertaking. But this project is intended to be out of sight, out of mind. “There will be less disruption to the community itself with traffic impacts, economic impacts,” Mathis said. “We won’t disturb the big economic corridor along Main Street.” The tunnel will start underneath what will be the western part of Waterfront Park near 13th and Rowan Streets. It’ll head east underneath the Ohio River towards I-64. At the Second Street Bridge, the tunnel then jogs inland to Butchertown. [...]

By smadi66|September 12th, 2017|Tunneling, Geotechnical Kentucky, Louisville, Drilling Kentucky|0 Comments

Upcoming Tunneling Projects – Tunnel

2/10/2016 Upcoming Tunneling Projects CALIFORNIA Laguna Beach Tunnel Stabilization and Sewer Pipeline Replacement Approved by the South Coast Water District Board of Directors in 2010 and the City of Laguna Beach in late 2013, the Tunnel Stabilization & Sewer Pipeline Replacement Project (Tunnel Project) is a 100-year solution to protect the environment, local economies and neighboring communities. The project comprises two key components: Tunnel Stabilization: The District will enlarge the size of the tunnel from an average of 6 to 9 ft. This will ensure safer working conditions and greater access for future pipeline maintenance and repair. Permanent shotcrete lining and steel supports will be installed at several locations where required, replacing rotten timber supports and removal of loose rock that currently exist. Pipeline Replacement: The District will install a new 24-in. pipeline throughout the tunnel. The current pipeline – also 24 in. in diameter – will be encased in concrete, but preserved for redundancy and emergency use. The cost to repair the tunnel is estimated at approximately $90 million and will be funded through low-interest state loans, grants and the District’s general fund. Shortlisted tunnel contractors announcement was anticipated for 2014-2015 with request for bids expected in 2015 and NTP in 2015-2016. Los Angeles The North East Interceptor Sewer (NEIS) Phase 2A The North East Interceptor Sewer (NEIS) Phase 2A project is currently the northern extension of the NEIS Phase 1 project. The project will construct approximately 3.03 miles of 8-ft diameter sewer in tunnel and associated structures. The sewer will be constructed from the Division St. Shaft site, near the intersection of San Fernando Road and Cazador Street and terminate at the northern overflow parking lot for the Pony and Train Rides in Griffith Park, just north of the I-5 Griffith Park On/Off Ramps (I-5 Shaft Site) east [...]

I-65 construction south of Indy tests commuters’ patience

Trips from Southport to southern Johnson County can take up to an hour longer Story Highlights More than $286M in road projects from Indy to Louisville on I-65 this summer. 20 motorists have died in accidents on I-65 this year Southside commuters are swerving, merging and yielding a lot for road construction this summer — and there’s little relief in sight. From Southport Road to Edinburgh and beyond, concrete testing barricades and orange traffic barrels on Interstate 65 have led drivers through myriad lane shifts and closures, adding precious time to rush-hour commutes, as the highway and bridges are rebuilt or repaired. Alternative routes, including portions of U.S. 31, also are being revamped. “There aren’t too many areas (of I-65) where we don’t have construction testing and inspection going on right now,” said Indiana Department of Transportation spokesman Harry Maginity. “If you are driving from Indianapolis to Louisville (Ky.), you are going to see a lot of it all year.” INDIANAPOLIS STAR I-65 NB lanes reopen in Lafayette area The biggest projects are on I-65 around Greenwood where about 63,000 cars travel both ways each day. Heavy machinery in the blocked-off medians and on bridges has made space in the travel lanes tight and twisting. Combined with reduced speeds, the journey in and out of Indianapolis can add more than hour of travel time for a trip between Southport and Edinburgh. “Our drivers plan that a trip from I-465 on the Southside to Edinburgh is going to be 45 minutes slower,” said Tim Piper, owner of Same Day Transportation, Indianapolis, which has 35 trucks. “If there’s an accident, it’s going to be even longer.” Overall, INDOT Construction Testing is doing three repair projects worth a combined $156 million on I-65 in the metro area. Four other projects to the Kentucky [...]

World Tunnelling News

Jan 05, 2016 - Helsinki-Tallinn fixed link seems feasible Yle Uutiset Jan 04, 2016 - India awards large $1.5 billion road link contract India Times Jan 01, 2016 - Bangladesh to improve infrastructure BD News 24 Dec 30, 2015 - India's longest road link to open in July NDTV Dec 29, 2015 - India envisages first underwater link India Times - India Today Dec 29, 2015 - China opens longest lake crossing GB Times Dec 28, 2015 - Japanese court ruling on fatal ceiling collapse The Yomiuri Shimbun - Japan News Dec 28, 2015 - Shanghai completes 13th river link Shanghai Daily Dec 26, 2015 - Bids placed for Istanbul mega-project Daily Sabah Dec 25, 2015 - Complex Singapore road link delayed Straits Times Dec 25, 2015 - Ottawa LRT enters final phase Ottawa Sun Dec 22, 2015 - Rio Metro Line 4 needs more funding The Rio Times Dec 20, 2015 - Work starts on Auckland's City Rail Link Stuff.co.nz Dec 18, 2015 - Study looks at replacing old Baltimore rail link The Baltimore Sun Dec 14, 2015 - US transportation bill boosts Hudson rail project New York Times Dec 14, 2015 - Cost of Mumbai Metro Line 3 underestimated The Indian Express Dec 14, 2015 - Cologne LRT opens phase III Railway Gazette Dec 14, 2015 - Qatar progresses with rail infrastructure Doha News Dec 10, 2015 - Tunnelling to start on Shinkansen maglev line The Asahi Shimbun Dec 09, 2015 - Sweden opens its longest rail tunnel International Railway Journal Dec 04, 2015 - Barge launches Thames Tideway construction Tideway news release Dec 03, 2015 - Memorial ceremony for Sasago tunnel collapse Japan Today Dec 02, 2015 - TT2 recognised for work with the disabled Shield's Gazette Nov 30, 2015 - Group to lobby for Malta-Gozo fixed [...]

By smadi66|January 17th, 2016|Geotechnical Tennessee, Geotechnical Ohio, Geotechnical Illinois, Geotechnical Michigan, Geotechnical Missouri, St. Louis, Geotechnical Indiana, Tunneling, Geotechnical Kentucky|0 Comments

Louisville Indiana – Kentucky Ohio River Bridges Project

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26r9MpVATsI Today's "Walk the Bridge" event attracted tens of thousands of people. The Louisville-Southern Indiana Ohio River Bridges Project addresses cross-river transportation needs in Louisville, Kentucky and Southern Indiana and will result in safer travel, less congestion and improved access to destinations in the region. LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Governor Steve Beshear announced that the new Ohio River bridge between Kentucky and Indiana in downtown Louisville will be named the Abraham Lincoln Bridge – connecting, as it does, the states of Lincoln’s birth and raising. “Lincoln led our nation through its bloodiest and greatest constitutional and political crisis – the American Civil War,” Gov. Beshear said. “But at the end of that national trauma, we remained a ‘United’ States of America. It’s therefore fitting that we honor Lincoln’s legacy with a bridge that further unites Kentucky, where he was born, with Indiana then Illinois, where he emigrated as a youth and grew to adulthood.” Kentucky and Indiana jointly are building the bridges project to improve cross-river mobility between Louisville and Southern Indiana. The project also includes construction of a new bridge eight miles upriver, connecting Prospect, Kentucky, and Utica, Indiana.

By smadi66|December 6th, 2015|Owensboro, Hopkinsville, Louisville, Richmond, Geotechnical Ohio, Florence, Georgetown, Louisville, Lexington, Geotechnical Indiana, Bowling Green|0 Comments

California highway landslide leaves vehicles buried – video

Aerial footage shows work crews clearing mud and debris following flash floods that left nearly 200 vehicles stuck in up to 5ft (1.5 metres) of mud. The Leona Valley, about 20 miles north of Los Angeles, saw extensive downpours on Thursday, with 3.58 inches (9 cm) of rainfall during a 30 minute period. Elsewhere in southern California, several roads were washed out and there were reports of motorists having to be rescued from torrential flooding

By smadi66|October 19th, 2015|Terre Haute, Greenwood, Calumet, Shelbyville, Vincennes, Highland, Columbus, Portage, Hammond, Landslides, La Porte, Evansville, Louisville, Gary, Geotechnical Engineer Indiana, Lebanon, Fort Wayne, Geotechnical Kentucky, Carmel, Geotechnical Engineer Indianapolis, New Albany, Kokomo, Geotechnical Tennessee, Fishers, Geotechnical Indiana, Noblesville, Lafayette, Geotechnical Ohio, Brownsburg, Soil Testing, Plainfield, Michigan City, Geotechnical Illinois, Crawfordsville, Drilling, Seymour, Muncie, Geotechnical Michigan, Elkhart, Indianapolis, Westfield, Richmond, Geotechnical Missouri, Goshen, Anderson, West Lafayette, South Bend, Greenfield, Bloomington, Mishawaka|Comments Off