Pressuremeter testing is a method of in-situ testing that is used to determine if there is stress-strain on soil, and to what degree. Geotechnical experts often refer to pressuremeter testing as ‘Menard Pressuremeter Testing’, although “Monocell” testing is becoming more prevalent. The testing is done by drilling a borehole and inserting a pressuremeter probe down to the depth that is required. Pressure is applied to the sides of the drilled borehole by the probe. This probe is made of between one and three cells that are inflatable and are then pumped with water and gas. As the pressure grows, pressure and deformation are measured.
Pressuremeter testing is complex
Not everyone can undertake a pressuremeter test and it should be undertaken only by a specialist pressuremeter testing company, with an experienced operator. Pressuremeters are used to test soft clay and loose sand through to medium strength rock. Pressuremeter testing is done so that engineers can design the right kind of foundation, piles, retaining wall or support system that will hold and be safe in the conditions presented.
Who would want or who would call for pressuremeter testing? Well, for all developments requiring foundations, big and small, pavement designers, piling contractors, ground improvement contractors, basement construction contractors . Geotechnical firms provide pressuremeter testing and a wide range of other in-situ testing, depending on the ground conditions and of course what is being developed.
Roads, bridges, dams, mines, factories, warehouses, new developments, anything on a large scale needs in-situ geotechnical testing. Geotechnical testers work with specialist equipment that needs trained specialist technicians to manage. Such equipment is often transported from one city to another, or even, from one country to another. Geotechnical testing is highly specialised and requires teams who can not only operate the machinery but also understand the results and analyse the findings.
Use a preferred geotechnical company for all your in-situ needs including pressuremeter testing.
