23

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
SUB SOIL INVESTIGATION

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0

PURPOSE

2.0

SCOPE

3.0

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1

GENERAL

3.1.1 Location plan for soil exploration

3.1.2 General Requirements from Contractor
3.1.3 Mobilisation
3.2

BORING

3.2.1
3.2.2
3.2.3
3.2.4
3.2.5
3.2.6

Shell and Auger Boring

Rotary Mud Circulation Drilling
Drilling in Rock
Borehole Depth
Backfilling of boreholes
Termination Criteria

3.3

IN-SITU SAMPLING

3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
3.3.4

Trial Pits
Undistributed Soil samples from Boreholes
Core samples of rock
Water Samples

3.4

IN SITU TESTING

3.4.1
3.4.2
3.4.3
3.4.4

Standard Penetration Test

Static Cone Penetration Test
Vane Shear Tests
Electrical Resistivity Test

3.5

LABORATORY TESTS

3.5.1
3.5.2
3.5.3
3.5.4
3.5.5
3.5.6
3.5.7

Atterberg Limits
Natural Moisture Contents
Dry Bulk Density and Void Ratio
Specific Gravity
Grain Size Distribution
Triaxial Tests
Unconfined Compression Test

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

3.5.8 Free Swelling Index

3.5.9 Swelling Pressure Test
3.5.10 Consolidation Tests
3.5.11 Chemical Tests (Ph, sulphates, chlorides)
3.5.12 Chemical Tests (Suitability for construction)
3.5.13 CBR Tests for sub-grade soils (3 point tests)
3.5.14 Proctor Density Tests
3.5.15 Levels & Co-Ordinates of Test Location
3.6

REPORT

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

1.0

PURPOSE
The purpose of this standard is to define specifications to be followed for Soil
Investigation work at Paradeep project site, Orissa.

2.0

SCOPE
These specifications cover the procedure for soil investigations for foundations.
The work shall be carried out in accordance with the specification set out below
and as directed by the Engineer-in-charge, wherever necessary. These
Specifications conform to the relevant Indian Standards on Soils and Foundations
for field investigations and Laboratory testing. Reference to any code in these
specifications shall mean the latest revision of the code unless otherwise
mentioned. In the event of any conflict between the requirements in these
specifications and the referred codes, the former shall govern.

3.0

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1

GENERAL
The purpose of the proposed sub-soil investigation programme is to provide
adequate information on sub-surface and surface conditions for the foundations
and other sub-structures for the proposed project, leading to their economical and
safe designs.
The planning of the work, choice of the method of boring, selection of the type of
samples and procedure for sampling though indicated in the Tender. Tenderer,
however, shall furnish his tentative programme regarding the above along with
his offer which, necessarily, should take into account the site conditions and time
schedule for completing the work, comprising subsurface features, borings, in-situ
tests, sampling, visual observations and laboratory tests of samples, reporting of
the test results, including discussions, correlating the field and the laboratory test
values and recommendations.
These specifications cover the work pertaining to subsoil investigations and
recommendations for economical and safe design of foundations and substructures for the proposed project site.

3.1.1 Location plan for soil exploration

A location plan drawing showing various facilities with proposed facilities being
marked as Red are attached.The exploration programme in the site will be
finalized by the successful bidder in consultation with Project-in-charge as suited
to the site conditions.

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

3.1.2 General Requirements from Contractor

The CONTRACTOR shall have on site all required survey instruments to carry
out the work accurately according to specifications and drawings. All the
specified locations for boreholes and field tests shall be set out at site by the
CONTRACTOR from two established reference grid lines which will be shown to
him by the ENGINEER IN-CHARGE. If required, the CONTRACTOR shall set
out the base lines and the locations of boreholes and field tests with reference to
the property line as indicated by the ENGINEER IN-CHARGE. At each location of
boreholes, plate load tests and other field tests, the CONTRACTOR shall
establish the ground level prior to commencing of the operations. The ground
level shall be related to an established benchmark or to a GTS benchmark or as
directed by the ENGINEER IN-CHARGE.
If the area, where the field tests are located, is likely to be inundated by tidal
waters, the field work shall include provision for temporary fill, erection and
removal of platforms, making good the ground, access, etc., as necessary for
carrying out the work in this area. Payment, if any, for any such works will be as
per rate quoted in the Bill of Quantities. It is expected that the cost of the same
has been catered for in rates for relevant items and no extra claims will be
entertained on this account.
The Contractor shall submit with his bid the list of equipment / apparatus he
would mobilise at site, if work is awarded to him. To complete the work within the
stipulated time, the Contractor shall, if necessary, mobilise additional equipment
without additional cost to the Owner.
3.1.3 Mobilisation
The Contractor shall mobilise adequate plants and equipments, instruments and
personnel (skilled and unskilled) required to carry out the soil investigation work,
including access, filling, provision of platforms, etc.
This scope also includes demobilisation of all equipments / personnel in orderly
manner so as to keep the site clean for any further work by Owner. This should
be to the satisfaction of Owners and Consultant's Representative. Charges for
these items of work are paid as lumpsum; no extra payment will be made for
subsequent mobilisation of any accessories and equipments.
Based on the field examination or tests, borelogs shall be prepared in accordance
with IS:1498. On completion of the field records, the soil investigator shall
discuss and decide in consultation with the consultants, the schedule of tests to
be performed and the exact number of samples to be tested for each test.
Mode of Payment: The payment for this item will be made after inspection and
approval of equipment, instruments, etc. mobilised to the site by EIC. The EIC

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

will certify the item for payment only after satisfying that the equipments are in
working condition.
3.2

BORING
Boring shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of IS:1892 and as
per the specifications given below:

3.2.1 Shell and Auger Boring

Augers shall be of helical or post hole type and may be manually operated. The
diameter of the borehole shall be 150mm or as specified in BOQ.
Uncased holes shall be permitted only upto a depth where the sides of the hole
can stand unsupported. In case side fall is noticed, steps shall be taken
immediately to stabilise the holes by using bentonite slurry or by casing pipes as
directed by the Engineer-in-Charge.
No water shall be added while boring through cohesive soils and cohesionless
soils above water table. While boring through cohesionless soil below water
table, water in the casing shall always be maintained at or above the water table.
The cuttings brought up by the auger shall be carefully examined and soil
descriptions duly recorded. Representative samples shall be preserved for
laboratory testing.
Wherever in-situ tests are conducted and undisturbed samples are obtained at
specified depths from the borehole, care shall be taken to ensure that the
borehole is properly cleaned and free from foreign matters at the time of
conducting these operations.
Water table in the boreholes shall be carefully recorded and reported. One of the
following methods shall be adopted for measuring the water table:
a)

The water table in the borehole shall be allowed to stabilise after depressing the
water level adequately by bailing. Stabilising of the borehole sides and bottom
shall be ensured at all times.

b)

The borehole shall be filled with water and then bailed out to various depths.
Observations shall be made at each depth to see if the water is rising or falling.
The depth at which neither a fall nor a rise is observed shall be considered as the
water table depth. This shall be established by three successive readings of
water levels taken at intervals of 2 hours.
c)

Hyorslevs Method

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

The water level shall be depressed by bailing (to say D below ground
level) and shall then be allowed to rise. Water rise at suitable equal
intervals of time shall be recorded. The distance of depressed water level
from the actual water table shall be obtained by the following formula:
Ho

H1
______
H1 H2

Where,
Ho =
H1 & H2 =

distance of depressed water level from actual water

table,
two successive rises of water level in the borehole for
the same time interval

The water table depth (Hd) from ground level shall be determined as under:
Hd = D Ho
Three sets of observation shall be made and the average value of Hd
determined.
Method (a) is suitable for permeable soil while methods (b) and (c) are
suitable for both permeable and impermeable soils. The Engineer-inCharge shall indicate the method to be followed.
Immediately on completion of a borehole, bore log shall be prepared in an
approved Performa and submitted to the Engineer-in-Charge in duplicate.
Auger shall be used for soft to firm clay and for silty deposits at upper depths of
10 metres or upto the water table, whichever is deeper. For deeper depths in
such deposits and for very stiff to hard clays and dense sands located at any
depth, use of shell may be made.
While boring in soft clays and in sandy deposits below water table, it shall be
ensured that the shell diameter shall be at least 25 to 50 mm less than the casing
diameter. This is to ensure that suction is not created in the borehole during
withdrawal of the shell with consequent Caving-in and blowing in the boreholes.
3.2.2 Rotary Mud Circulation Drilling
The drilling shall be carried out (as per IS:1892) by use of a suitable mechanical
rig.

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

Drilling upto water table shall be done by auger and provisions of clauses 4.1.2.1
to 4.1.2.8 shall apply. Below the water table drilling by rotary mud circulation shall
be adopted.
Use of percussion tools may be permitted in very stiff to hard clays and dense
sandy deposits only after obtaining written permission from Clients / Consultants.
3.2.3 Drilling in Rock
In rock strata, boring shall be done by using a rotary cutting tool tipped with
diamonds and equipped to recover cores.
Drillhole size shall generally be NX. However, in some cases other size holes
may be specified
Core barrels shall be double-tube ball-bearing, swivel type, with the core lifter
located in the lower end of the inner barrel. The Bidder shall confirm the same
with his bid.
Drilling shall be carried out in such a manner that maximum core is recovered.
This requires close surveillance of wash water, drilling pressures, lengths of runs,
etc. The drill bit shall be withdrawn and the core removed as often as may be
necessary to secure the maximum possible amount of core. CONTRACTOR
shall ensure that drilling is carried out with necessary skill and expertise.
3.2.4 Borehole Depth
All boreholes shall be sunk to depths as specified in tender document.
It may be difficult to continue the boring due to presence of gravels and boulders.
In this case, boreholes, shall be advanced upto 6.5 to 7.0 m depth by cement
grouting using Ax size drill, followed by drilling with 3" casing Hx size drill or of a
larger size.
Initially about 1 - 1.5m depth shall be used, using Ax size drill, followed by 1:1
cement water grouting.
After about 12 -24 hours of grouting, the boreholes shall be redrilled with casing
itself (which may have a bit at the bottom or simple teeth). Further drilling shall
then be carried out upto another 1 - 1.5 m followed by grouting and redrilling.
This sequence will be continued till 6.5 - 7.0 m depth with SPT @ every 1 m
interval.

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

3.2.5 Backfilling of boreholes

On completion of boreholes, backfilling shall be carried out with an approved
material as and when directed by the Engineer-in-Charge. Unless otherwise
specified, the excavated soil shall be used for the purpose.
3.2.6 Termination Criteria
If very hard strata is met within the borehole at depths shallower than specified in
tender documents, the borehole shall be advanced by coring using double tube
core barrel. The borehole may be terminated 3m below the depth where N > 75
values are obtained consistently.
3.3

IN-SITU SAMPLING

3.3.1 Trial Pits

Trial pits shall be of minimum 3m x 3m size at base so as to permit easy access
for a visual examination of the walls of the pit and to facilitate sampling and in-situ
testing operations.
Precautions shall be taken to ensure the stability of pit walls, if necessary by the
provision of shoring. Arrangements shall be made for dewatering, if the pit is
extended below water table.
In-situ tests shall be conducted and undisturbed samples obtained immediately
on reaching the specified depths, so as to avoid substantial moisture changes in
the subsoil.
After completion of tests and examination, the pits shall be suitably backfilled as
directed by the Engineer-in-Charge. Unless otherwise specified, the excavated
soil shall be used for this purpose.
3.3.2 Undistributed Soil samples from Boreholes
Samples for recovering undistributed samples from cohesive soils at the specified
depth shall conform to IS:2132. However, use of samples less than 70mm
diameter shall not be permitted.
The sampling procedures shall conform to IS:2132. Both the area ratio of the
cutting edge, as well as recovery ratio of the sample shall be measured and
reported. For normal soils, area ratio of the sampling tubes, shall conform to
IS:2131, that is, it may vary from 10.9% to 12.4% but for sampling in very hard
and dense soils, use of thick walled sampling tubes with area ratio not exceeding
20% may be permitted subject to the approval of the Engineer-in-Charge.

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

In order to reduce the wall friction, suitable precaution such as oiling the inside
and outside of the sampling tubes shall be taken. The sampling tube shall have
smooth finish.
In soft to firm clays, undisturbed samples shall be collected by pushing the tube
continuously without impact or twisting. Driving of sampling tubes shall be
permitted only if stiff to very stiff and hard deposits exists.
For highly sensitive soils, piston samplers shall be employed.
For soft clays exceeding more than 15M depth from the ground level, collection of
undisturbed samples shall be supplemented by the In-Situ Vane Shear Tests.
The top and bottom of the sample shall be clearly marked on the sampling tube.
Undisturbed samples shall be tested within a period of two weeks of taking
them from the boreholes or trial pit.
If any space is left between the end of the tube and top of wax, the same shall be
tightly packed with saw dust or any other suitable material. A close fitting lid or
screwed cap shall then be placed on each end of the tube and held in position by
adhesive tape.
3.3.3 Core samples of rock
The ease or difficulty of drilling at different depths shall be carefully noted and
recorded during drilling. The returning drill water shall be kept constantly under
observation and its character, such as, its clarity or its turbidity; its colour etc.
shall be recorded.
Coring runs shall be limited to a maximum length of 2.0m. When less than 50%
of the core is recovered from a run or when a geological features is to be
accurately determined, the length of the run shall be reduced to 1.0m unless
directed otherwise by the ENGINEER.
The core shall be removed from the drillhole immediately if blocking of the bit or
grinding of the core is apparent, regardless of the length of run, which has been
made.
The CONTRACTOR shall not use drilling mud or any lubricant in the drillhole
other than water.
For each run, Core Recovery and Rock Quality Designation (RQD) shall be noted
carefully, immediately after cores are taken out of the barrel.

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

Each and every core piece shall be serially and sequentially numbered from top
downwards as soon as the core pieces are removed from the core barrel. The
serial number shall be painted with good quality enamel paint.
All core pieces shall be placed in core boxes in serial order in correct sequence
from top downwards. Core boxes shall be made according to specifications laid
down in IS:4078.
The cores, arranged in core boxes noted earlier, shall be submitted to the
OWNER / ENGINEER on submission of the report. The cost of this including the
cost of core boxes will be presumed to be included in the drilling rate.
If core recovery is less than 20%, the payment for drilling shall be same as that
for boring in soil at appropriate depths.
3.3.4 Water Samples
Water samples shall be collected from boreholes as specified. Water samples
shall be collected before the addition of water to the hole unless that is not
possible. If this is not possible, then prior to collection of water sample, water
level in the bore hole shall be lowered upto the bottom of the borehole then
allowed to rise by water seeping through the walls of the borehole. The water
sample shall then be collected. Care shall be taken to see that water sample is
not contaminated by surface water or rainwater.
In some cases water samples may be required to be collected from different
depths, if so specified. In such cases it is advisable to collect the samples on the
completion of the relevant borehole unless a suitable sampler to collect water
sample from different depths below free water surface is used. To collect the
water sample, in absence of a suitable sampler the borehole shall be dewatered.
The sample shall then be collected when the water rises to the required depth. If
specified, ground water sample shall also be collected from trial pits. If there are
any wells within the area investigated, one water sample from each well shall also
be collected. If specified, water samples shall also be collected from well (s)
located nearby the area being investigated.
The water sample shall be
collected in an air tight, scrupulously clean glass or inert plastic bottle or jerry can.
The bottle / can shall be rinsed three times with water being sampled, before
filling. The quantity of each water sample collected shall be about 1 litre.
Water samples shall be tested as soon as possible after sampling for sulphate
(as SO3) and chloride contents and its pH, and for other tests as specified.

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

3.4

IN SITU TESTING

3.4.1 Standard Penetration Test

The test shall be conducted at specified intervals or at a depth where the strata
changes, whichever occurs earlier.
The test shall be carried out by driving a standard split spoon by means of 65 kg
hammer with a 75 cm free fall. Detailed procedure of testing, as specified in
IS:2131. 'Method of Standard Penetration Tests in Soils' shall be followed. The
samples obtained in the split spoon shall be labelled and preserved for
identification tests in the laboratory.
Standard penetration test shall be conducted at 1.5m interval. Sequence of
conducting SPT shall be changed in each bore hole. Say for first bore hole SPT
started at 1.5 m depth then 3.0 m,.. etc. For next bore hole it shall be
started at 1m depth then 2.5m etc. Similiarly for other bore hole. So that
staggered value of SPTs obtained for entire site.
Disturbed samples to be collected (including packing and transporting) and sent
to the Laboratory as per specifications. The standard penetration test shall be
discontinued when N is greater than 75 blows for 30 cms of penetration.
3.4.2 Static Cone Penetration Test
The equipment used for this test shall conform to the requirements of IS:4968
(Part III).
The capacity of the equipment to be used for test shall not be less than 10.0 tons.
The test shall not be carried out on gravelly soils or for soils with standard
penetration value 'N' greater than 50.
Test Procedures
Test procedure shall meet the requirements of IS:4968 (Part III). Some of the
important points of the procedure are given below :
a)

The cone is pushed through a distance in accordance with the design of

the equipment and the need for the sub-strata and the cone resistance
noted. The cone and the friction jacket are pushed together subsequently
for a distance depending upon the design of the cone and friction
resistance noted. This procedure is repeated at predetermined intervals.

b)

Equipment shall be securely anchored to the platform at the test point for
obtaining the required reaction.

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

c)

The rod of the driving mechanism shall be brought to the top most position.
The cone friction jacket assembly shall be connected to the first sounding
rod and the mantle tube. The assembly shall be positioned over the test
point through the mantle tube guide and held vertically. The plunger of the
driving mechanism shall be brought down so as to rest against the
protruding sounding rod.

d)

To obtain the cone resistance, only the sounding rod shall be pushed.
Switching the gear clutch to the slow position, the drive handle shall be
operated at a steady rate of 1 cm / sec. approximately, so as to advance
the cone only, to a depth which is possible with the cone assembly
available. During the pushing, the mean value of resistance as indicated
by pressure gauges shall be noted ignoring erratic changes.

e)

For finding combined cone and friction resistance of the soil, the sounding
rod shall be pushed to the extent the cone has been pushed, at the rate of
1 cm / sec. noting mean resistance on the gauges.

f)

The above procedure shall be repeated after pushing the combined cone
friction jacket and mantle tube assembly to the next depth at which the test
is to be performed.

g)

The sequence of operation of the equipment shall be as per Fig. 5 of

IS4968 (Part 3).

The proforma for record of results of static cone penetration test shall be as
approved by Consultants.
3.4.3 Vane Shear Tests
These tests shall be conducted in soft to firm clays and sensitive clays. These
tests shall also be conducted in case of stiff fissured clays where samples cannot
be taken.
Tests shall be generally conducted through boreholes.
The apparatus used for vane shear tests shall satisfy the requirements as per
IS:4434.
For test from bottom of Borehole:
a)

Vane shall consist of four mutually perpendicular blades, as illustrated in

IS:4434. The height of the vane should be twice the blade diameter. It is
recommended that the diameter of the vane should be 37.5, 50, 75 or 100

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

mm. The design of the vane shall be such that it causes as little
remoulding or disturbance as possible to the soil when inserted into the
ground for a test. The blades shall be as thin as possible, consistent with
the strength requirements. The vane should not deform under the
maximum torque for which it is designed. The rotating trating edge of the
vane blades shall be sharpened having an included angle of 90 deg. The
vane blades shall be welded together suitably either directly or to a central
rod, the maximum diameter of which should preferably not exceed 12.5
mm.
The area ratio of the vane shall be kept as low as possible and shall not
exceed 18% for the 37.5 mm vane and 12% for the 50, 65, 70 and 100 mm
diameter vanes. The area ratio may be calculated using the following
formula:
Ar =

8t (D-d) + d
--------------------- d

Where
Ar
=
t
=
D
=
d
=

100 (%)

area ratio in percent

thickness of vane blades in mm.
overall diameter of vane in mm and,
diameter of central vane rod including any enlargement due
to welding in mm.

Note 1 :
The vane selected should be the largest size suitable for the
general soil conditions at a site.
The vane rod (the rod to which the vane blades are fixed) may be
enclosed in a suitably designed sleeve from just above the blades and
throughout the length it penetrates the soil to exclude the soil particles and
the effects of soil adhesion. This sleeve shall commence above the blades
at a distance equivalent to about two diameters of the vane rod.

b)

Note 2 :

The vane shall be frequently checked for straightness.

Torque

Applicator

The torque applicator shall have a clamping device to rigidly secure it to

the anchor casing and shall have an attachment to securely hold the string
of rods connecting the vane.
The instrument shall be capable of applying a torque to the vane through
the string of rods and to measure the same. It should also have a device

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

to read the angular rotation of the upper end of the extension rods. The
torque applicator shall be provided with speed control so that the rate of
rotation may be maintained at 0.1 deg. / sec. Friction exerted by the torque
applicator shall be of negligible magnitude and shall be checked
periodically. Depending upon the estimated shear strength of the soil the
following table (Table 1) may be used as a guide for the selection of torque
applicator of capacity 60 N.m (600 Kgf.cm) .
TABLE - 1
SELECTION OF TORQUE APPLICATOR
Estimated Shear Strength in KN /
Sq.m (Kgf / sq.cm)
10 (0.1)
20 (0.2)
30 (0.3)
40 (0.4)
50 (0.5)
60 (0.6)
70 (0.7)

Vane size (dia.) suitable for use with

600 Kgf. cm torque applicator
All sizes
All sizes except 100 mm size
All sizes except 100 mm size
All sizes except 75 mm size & 100
mm size
All sizes except 75 mm size & 100
mm size
37.5 mm and 50 mm size
37.5 mm and 50 mm size

The capacity and accuracy of the instrument shall be one of the following
as may be specified by the purchaser:
a) Measure torque upto 60 N.m (600 kgf.cm) to an accuracy of 1 N.m (10
kgf.cm), or
b) Measure torque upto 200 N.m (2000 kgf.cm) to an accuracy of 2.5 N.m
(25 kgf.cm)
c) Rod System: The string of torque rods connecting the vane to the
torque applicator, called the rod system may be of quick coupling type
or of the threaded type. The length of the rods shall be preferably be
1m with a few of smaller lengths. These rods shall have sufficient
diameter such that their elastic limit is not exceeded when the vane is
stressed to its capacity (see Note 3). The threaded rods shall be so
coupled that the shoulders of the male and female ends shall meet to
prevent any possibility of the coupling tightening when the torque is
applied during the test. If a vane housing is used, the torque rods shall
be equipped with well-lubricated bearings where they pass through the
housing. These bearings shall be provided with seals to prevent soil
from entering them. The torque rods shall be guided so as to prevent

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
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friction from developing between the torque rods and the walls of
casing or boring.
Note 3 : If torque versus rotation curves to be determined, it is essential that
the torque rods be calibrated (prior to the use in the field). The amount of
rod twist (if any) shall be established in degree per metre per unit torque.
This correction becomes progressively more important as depth of test
increases. The calibration shall be made at least to the maximum depth of
testing anticipated.
d) Dummy Rod
Of dimensions equal to that of the vane rod of the vanes used.
e) Guides for Rod
Of suitable type provided with ball bearing attachment so as to enable the
rod to rotate freely (see Note 4).
Note 4 : During the test, it is essential that the rods and vane are placed
centrally in the borehole. For this purpose guides shall be used at an
interval in depth of not more than 5m.
f) Drilling Equipment
The equipment shall provide a clean hole of the required diameter for
insertion of the vane to ensure that the vane test is performed on
undisturbed soil.
g) Jacking Arrangement
For pushing the shoe and vane (where required).
h) The apparatus shall be checked and calibrated as and when required.
For Tests by Direct Penetration from Ground Surface
a)

Vane
As specified in 3.4.5 a) In addition the vane shall be suitably protected by
a shoe.

b)

Rod System

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

As specified in 3.4.5 c) and of suitable type.

c)

Extension Pipes
About one metre length with coupling on the outer face to case the hole.

d)

Torque Applicator

e)

As specified in 3.4.5 b)
The apparatus shall be checked and calibrated as and when requested.

Procedure for tests from the bottom of a borehole

Sink the bore upto the depth required and extend the casing upto the full depth.
If the casing is loose, secure it so that it does not move during the tests. Fix the
torque applicator anchor plate to the casing.
Connect the vane of suitable size (see Note 1) to the rods and lower it to the
bottom of the bore-hole, put guides at suitable intervals but not more than about
5m as the rods are extended. Push the vane with a moderately steady force upto
a depth of 5 times the diameter of the borehole below the bottom of the borehole
or shoe. Take precaution to make sure that no torque is applied to the torque
rods during the thrust. No hammering shall be permitted. Fix the torque
applicator with frame to the anchor plate and connect the rods to it. Tighten the
torque applicator to the frame properly.
Allow a minimum period of 5 minutes after insertion of the vane. Turn the gear
handle so that the vane is rotated at the rate of 0.1 deg / s.
Note the maximum torque reading attained. If necessary, note the torque
indicator dial gauge readings at half minute intervals and continue rotating the
vane until the reading drops appreciably from the maximum.
Just after the determination of the maximum torque, rotate the vane rapidly
through a minimum of ten revolutions. The remoulded strength should then be
determined (see C; above within one minute after completion of the revolutions).
Remove the vane testing assembly, continue boring and collect soil sample from
the level of the vane testing for laboratory analysis to ascertain whether the
deposit will behave as a purely cohesive soil.
In cases where a sleeve is not provided for the vane rod and the soil is in contact
with the rod, determine the friction between the soil and the vane rod by
conducting tests at appropriate depths using the dummy rod corresponding to
that of the vane used in the test. The test should be conducted as with the vane

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

except that the vane is replaced by dummy rod. The test should be conducted in
an adjacent borehole at the same depth at which the vane tests were conducted.
The dummy rod should be pushed into the ground to the same distance as the
vane rod at that depth.
Following points shall, however, be carefully supervised in the field:
a)

Straightness of vane shall be checked while the entire assembly of vane

connected with rod is lowered to the bottom of boreholes. Vane shall be
pushed with a moderate steady force upto a depth of five times the bore
hole diameter below the bottom of boreholes. Precautions shall be taken
to ensure that no torque is applied to the torque rods during the thrust. No
hammering shall be done.

b)

An interval of 5 minutes shall be allowed to lapse after insertion of vane.

c)

Torque indicator readings shall be noted at intervals of 30 seconds until

the vane readings drop appreciably from the maximum.

d)

Samples shall be collected from the levels at which the tests have been
conducted.

Tests by Direct Penetration from Ground Surface

Rods shall remain tight when vane is lowered. Guides shall be placed at every
3m to centralise and reduce friction between rods and extension pipe.
Records
Records of vane test shall be maintained in approved proforma.
3.4.4 Electrical Resistivity Test
This test shall be conducted as per Appendix B, Clause 3.2 of IS1892 - 1979.
The test shall be done by using 4 points. The locations where ERT to be
performed shall be finalized in consulatation with EIC..
3.5

LABORATORY TESTS
The following laboratory tests shall be conducted on samples collected from the
field covering all the bores using procedures specified in the relevant Indian
Standards. All the Laboratory Tests shall be conducted by skilled personnel only.

3.5.1 Attenberg Limits

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SOIL INVESTIGATION

The tests result should include liquid limit and plastic limit of the soil samples
tested. These tests should be conducted as per IS:2720 Part V.
3.5.2 Natural Moisture Content
In case of organic soils, the oven temperature shall be 60 deg. C and not 105
deg.C.
3.5.3 Dry Bulk Density and Void Ratio
3.5.4 Specific Gravity
This test should be conducted as per IS:2720, Part 3.
3.5.5 Grain Size Distribution
Wherever applicable both the sieve and hydrometer analysis shall be conducted
to indicate complete range of grain size in the soil sample tested. Generally,
Hydrometer analysis will be carried out, wherever percentage passing No.200
sieve is greater than 30%.
3.5.6 Triaxial Tests
These tests shall be done on specimens saturated by the application of back
pressure. Only if the water table is at sufficient depth so that chances of its rising
to the base of the footing are meager or nil, shall the triaxial tests be performed
on specimens at Natural Moisture Content. The magnitude of the back up
pressure applied shall be indicated in the report.
All stress diagrams as well as Mohr-circle envelopes shall be included in the
report.
E-value shall be determined from the triaxial tests. Relevant corrections applied
to the computer 'E' shall be clearly illustrated in the report.
3.5.7 Unconfined Compression Test
This test shall be conducted as per IS:2720, Part X.
3.5.8 Free Swelling Index
This test shall be conducted as per IS:2911, Part III.

3.5.9 Swelling Pressure Test

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

This test shall be conducted as per Draft Standard circulated by Technical

Committee on Expansive Soils (TC-6) of International Society of Soil Mechanics
and Foundation Engineering; 'Evaluation of Swelling Pressure of Expansive Soil
in Laboratory' (circulated in November, 1990).
3.5.10 Consolidation Tests
The following loading stage shall be employed : 0, 0.1, 0.25, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 and 8.0
kg / sq.cm. From e Vs log p curves, preconsolidation pressure shall be
determined to establish whether the soil is normally consolidated or over
consolidated. The point (e, p) showing initial condition of the soil under test must
be specifically marked on the consolidation curves. Settlement predictions based
on the field virgin compression curve shall only be acceptable. The procedure
adopted in respect of obtaining compression indices from the field curve and that
for computing settlements for the type of clay under consideration shall be clearly
illustrated in the report.
It is to be noted that deviations from the standard procedure of performing
consolidation tests given in IS:2720 are permissible in order to enable
computation of settlements based on the above procedure i.e. cycles (s) of
loading, unloading and reloading shall be employed wherever required.
The following curves shall be included in the report :
a)

vs : log p

b)

vs : p

c)

Compression vs : log t or compression vs t.

The choice of relationship depends upon the shape of the plot, which enables a
clear determination of Cv, the coefficient of consolidation.
The time period required for 50% and 90% primary consolidation should be given
in the report.
Computation of secondary settlements, if significant, shall also be made and
included in the report.
3.5.11 Chemical Tests On Water & Soil
Chemical tests shall be conducted on soil and water samples to report the
following:

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)

pH
Chloride
Sulphate
Sulphite
Organic contents
Total hardness

3.5.12 Chemical Tests (Suitability of water for Construction)

These tests shall be carried out to check suitability of water for construction
purpose as required by IS:456. Other Inorganic Tests as required by World
Health Organisation (WHO) to test suitability for drinking purpose shall also be
carried out.
3.5.13 CBR Tests for Sub-Grade soils (3 Point Tests)
These tests shall be conducted on soaked and unsoaked samples generally as
per IS: 2720 Part XVI. Bulk samples for laboratory tests shall be selected
randomly from various road locations and also from locations of stacking areas in
consultation with Engineer-in-Charge.
The 3 point test shall consist of
preparation of samples with 15, 25, 35 blows per layer, which will give three
different densities to soil and then testing each for soaked condition.
3.5.14 Proctor Density Tests
These tests shall be conducted as per IS: 2720 Part VII samples collected
randomly in consultation with Engineer-in-Charge.
3.5.15 Levels & Co-Ordinates of Test Location
Contractor shall establish and tabulate reduced levels and co-ordinates of various
test locations. Any expense on this account shall be deemed to have been
included in the quoted rates.
3.6

REPORT
Two copies of Draft\Interim Report shall be submitted to Client / Consultant
before preparing Final Report.
The record shall be prepared with due regards to above given
requirements in a draft format and submitted for review and comment as soon as
field and laboratory works are completed. Contractor shall incorporate the
comments/ remarks, if any, furnished by HPCL upon review of the Draft Report

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

and submit the final report. The draft copy of the report shall in general include
but not be limited to the following :
1.

Plot plan showing all the test locations with respect to reference bench
mark.

2.

General Geological information of the site

3.

Character and genesis of soil

4.

Procedure of investigation and methods of various testing adopted.

5.

Detailed bore-logs indicating co-ordinates, reduced levels, ground water

table etc., sub soil profiles along various profiles along various sections
indicating borehole no. depth wise in-situ tests like SPT and other lab
results etc.

6.

Generalised soil profile of the underlying strata in cross section and

longitudinal section wise, shall be furnished based on the bore log in grid
pattern

7.

All field and laboratory test results shall be plotted against depth and also
in tabular form

8.

Summary of results obtained from various tests and other interpretation to

evaluate various soil parameters.

9.

Recommend suitable foundation for Above ground Petroleum products

storage tanks. The diameter of the tanks will be advised during soil testing.

10.

Recommend suitable depth of foundation and foundation to be adopted for

MCC Room/ Control Room Buildings, Pump House Sheds, Roads,
Railway siding and Loading Gantry Structure proposed at the above
location.

11.

The Contractor shall recommend in the report the suitable foundation

system or ground improvements to be adopted for Enclosure wall, roads,
drains, Pipeline pedestals and other structures; the permissible bearing
pressure expected at the founding level with allowable settlement, if any;
details of soil improvements, if any and any other aspect which will have
any bearing on the proposed construction. The Contractor shall also

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
SOIL INVESTIGATION

provide the suggested filling materials characteristics/ parameters

considering locally available soils and economics.
12.

Ultimate and safe bearing capacity from shear as well as from settlement
criteria (i.e. for 25mm and 40mm) for the shallow, combined or raft
footings.

13.

Recommendation for pile foundation (If necessary) including types of piles,

size and depth of pile and safe load in vertical, lateral and pull out.

14.

Comments on chemical aggressiveness of soil and ground water on

reinforced concrete, steel and other building materials and firm
recommendations on remedial/ preventive measures.

15.

Recommendation of CBR value for design of road, pavement etc.

16.

Recommendation of soil resistivity to be considered for design purpose.

17.

Recommendation of

design

parameters

for pressure meter test.

Recommendation of foundation system with detailed calculations from

pressure meter test result.
18.

Recommendation regarding ground water fluctuation, horizontal and

vertical permeability of sub soil strata.

Contractor shall submit 6 Sets of Final Reports along with soft copy in CD.