Information

International Society for Soil Mechanics

and Foundation Engineering

Societe Internatianale de Mecanique des Sols

et des Travaux de Fondatians

Report of the ISSMFE

Technical Committee on

Penetration Testing of Soils - TC 16

with Reference Test Procedures

CPT- SPT- DP- WST

SWEDISH GEOTECHNICAL SOCIETY

SWEDISH GEOTECHNICAL INSTITUTE

PREFACE

The present report is the final document by the ISSMFE

Technical Committee on Penetration Testing of Soils, TC
16, which initially was appointed in 1982 and reappoin­
ted in 1985. The report contains Reference Test Procedu­
res for four different types of penetration testing
methods (in English and French):

• Cone Penetration Test (CPT)

e Standard Penetration Test (SPT)
• Dynamic Probing (DP)
• Weight Sounding Test (WST)

According to an agreement between the International

Society for Soil Mechanics and Faundatian Engineering,
the Swedish Geotechnical Society (as host society for TC
16) and the Swedish Geotechncial Institute (SGI), this
report is published in SGI Series "Information". Hope­
fully, this document will be of worldwide use to people
cancerned with penetration testing, manufacturers, con­
sultants, contractors, field engineers, researchers and
students.

Finally, I would like to convey my sincere thanks to all

the committee members for their deserving work, especi­
ally the Chairmen of the working groups: Professor E.
De Beer, Mr S. Thorburn and Dr K.J. Melzer, our Co­
chairman Mr W.J. Heijnen and our Secretary Dr E Sell­
gren.

Linköping June 1989

Chairman of the ISSMFE Technical Committee

on Penetration Testing of Soils

Ulf Bergdahl
Swedish Geotechnical Institute

ISSN 0281-7578

 CONTENTS
TABLE DES MATIERES

PREFACE

REPORT OF THE ISSMFE TECHNICAL COMMITTEE ON PENETRATION 2

TESTING OF SOILS - TC 16

APPENDIX A
INTERNATIONAL REFERENCE TEST PROCEDURE FOR CONE 6
PENETRATION TEST {CPT)

APPENDIX B
INTERNATIONAL REFERENCE TEST PROCEDURE FOR THE STANDARD 17
PENETRATION TEST (SPT)

APPENDIX C
INTERNATIONAL REFERENCE TEST PROCEDURES FOR DYNAMIC 20
PROBING (DP)

APPENDIX D
INTERNATIONAL REFERENCE TEST PROCEDURE FOR THE WEIGHT 24
SOUNDING TEST (WST)

APPENDICE A
MODE OPERATOIRE DE L'ESSAI DE REFERENCE INTERNATlONALE 28
POUR L'ESSAI DE PENETRATION AU CONE (CPT)

APPENDICE B
METHODE D'ESSAIS DE REFERENCE INTERNATlONALE POUR L'ESSAI 39
DE PENETRATION STANDARD {SPT)

APPENDICE C
PROCEDURES INTERNATlONALEs D'ESSAI DE REFERENCE AU ............... 42
PENETROMETRE DYNAMIQUE {DP)

APPENDICE D
REFERENCE INTERNATlONALE CONCERNANT LE MODE OPERATOIRE DE 46
L'ESSAI DE PENETRATION PAR CHARGES {WST)
REPORT OF THE ISSMFE TECHNICAL COMMITTEE

ON PENETRATION TESTING OF SOILS TC 16

l. ACTIVITIES OF THE COMMITTEE ON

In 1974 the Swedish Geotechnical Society organised a
PENETRATION TESTING
European Symposium on Penetration Testing (ESOPT). At
this symposium the topic "Standardization and future
cooperation" was discussed. The results of these
1.1 Activities of the subcommittee on standardization discussions were presented in the ESOPT proceedings, Vol
of penetration testing in Europe 2:1, p 53-55. It was pointed out that the standardization
of penetration equipment and of test proeectures is not
At the Fourth International conference on Soil Mechanics only desirable but also necessary and that only a small
and Faundatian Engineering in London, 1957, a number of penetrometers should be standardized. The
Subcommittee on Static and Dynamic Penetration Testing suggestion was made that all national geotechnical
Methods was appointed to study the methods of static and societies should be encouraged to set up national
dynamic penetration tests with a view to their committees on penetration testing and appoint centact
standardization. members with the European Subcommittee in order to
enlarge the base for the work on standardization.
Between the ye ars 1957-1961 the various methods were
studied and comparative analyses were carried out. At the ISSMFE Executive Committee meeting in Istanbul in
However, the Subcommittee did not make any 1975 the Subcommittee was enlarged to nine members.
recommendations to the Executive Committee at the Fifth
International Conference in Paris, 1961. It was decided
The enlarged Subcommittee had its first meeting in Ghent,
that the work of the Subcommittee should be continued
Belgium, in August 1975. Dr F Baguelin, France, was
with the aim of standardizing a limited number of
invited to this meeting as an additional member. Mr U
penetration testing methods, ehosen among the most
Bergdahl, Sweden, was nominated as secretary of the
commonly used methods in Western Europe and America. At
Subcommittee.
the following meeting it was decided to divide the
activities inta two parts: Dr H Zweck should coordinate
At this meeting it was decided to develop proposals for
the standardization of penetration testing methods in
the standardization of the following four tests:
Europe, and Prof H Ireland should do the same for the
Standard Penetration Test (SPT).
* Static sounding

The European group of the Subcommittee met in Wiesbaden

in 1963 and discussed a draft for the standardization of
the German dynamic sounding test, the Dutch static cone
penetrometer test and the Swedish weight sounding test.
These discussions 'resul ted in the paper "Recommended
methods for static and dynamic penetration tests
(subsurface soundings)".
At the Sixth International Conference in Montreal 1965,
the secretary of the Subcommittee, Prof M Vargas
presented one report from the European group and one from
the American group. Because of the wide divergence of
opinions among the members of the Subcommittee it was
recommended that the work should be compiled in separate
reports and published in the proceectings of the A.S.C.E.,
Geotechnique or other appropriate journals. The following
reports were therefore published:
• Recommended method for static and dynamic penetration
tests (subsurface soundings), 1965. Geotechnique Vol 18
(1968), No l, p 98-101.
e Ireland H.O., Moretta O. and Vargas M. (1970). The
dynamic penetration test: A standard that is not
standardized. Geotechnique Vol 20, No 2, p 185-192.
* Dynamic sounding
* Standard Penetration Test
* Weight sounding
Four working groups were appointed to perform the
writing.
The seeond meeting of the enlarged European Subcommittee
was held in The Hague , Holland, in June 1976. At this
meeting about 40 delegates from 15 European countries
discussed the proposals presented by the four working
groups. Recommendations for the revision of the proposals
were settled, with the object of presenting them in a
final report to the Executive Committee before the Ninth
International Conference in Tokyo, 1977.
A third meeting of the Subcommittee was held in
Stockholm, in November 1976 for the final discussion of
the report and to give recommendations of the
Subcommittee.
The European recommended standard for penetration tests
was then approved by the Executive Committee at the Tokyo
Conference 1977 . In addition a recommended standard for
light dynamic probing was approved at the Stockholm
Conference 1981.

At the meeting in Montreal the Subcommittee was

dissolved. However, the European national societies
wanted to continue the work on a regional basis and
therefore a European Subcommittee was established with Dr
H Zweck as chairman. There were no reports of the
activities of this committe at the international
conferences held in Mexico City 1969 and Moscow 1973 .

2
1.2 Activities of the International Technical Committee
on penetration testing of soils, TC 16
A new international ISSMFE Committee on Penetration
Testing was appointed for 1982-1985 by the President just
after ESOPT II with the Swedish Geotechnical Society as
host society and Prof B. Broms and Mr U Bergdahl as
Chairman and Secretary, respectively. Invitations were
sent to members of ISSMFE in 33 different countries to
participate in the work of the Committee.
The terms of reference for the Committee were enlarged.
It was emphazised by the president that the Committee
should investigate earrelations and camparisans between
different penetration testing methods and the
applications and limitations of the methods to prediet
the hearing capacity and settlement of shallow footings,
piers and piles. The members of the Committee were also
encouraged to earrespond with authors of papers cancerned
with penetration testing. Early attempts at
standardization should be avoided.
The Committee met for the first time just after the ESOPT
II meeting in Amsterdam and for a seeond time in Helsinki
May, 1983 in connectionwith the 8th ECSMFE. Most of the
members were present in Helsinki and it was then settled
that the main aim of the Committee should be to work out
International Reference Test Proeectures for the following
four penetration testing methods:
l. Cone Penetration Test (CPT)
2. Standard Penetration Test (SPT)
3. Dynamic Probing (DP)
4. Weight Sounding Test (WST)
It was also concluded that it would not be possible for
the Committee to perform earrelations and comparisons of
the different penetration testing methods before the
International Conference in San Francisco in August 1985,
but this would be one main topic of an International
Symposium on Penetration Testing (ISOPT-1) to be held in
1988.
The work of the Committee was organized in four different
working parties each cancerned with one of the penetra­
tion testing methods mentioned above. Each working party
prepared a report containing proposals for reference test
procedures. These reports were then discussed at a Tech­
nical Committee meeting in San Francisco, 1985 . The four
working parties had the following members:
e Standard Penetration Test (SPT)
S. Thorburn (UK), Chairman
J.H. Schmertmann (USA)
I.K. Nixon (UK)
L. Decourt (Brazil)
T. Muromachi (Japan)
E. Zolkov (Israel)
3
• Cone Penetration Test (CPT)
E. De Beer (Belgium), Chairman
W.J. Heijnen (Netherlands)
R.G. Gampanella (Canada)
J.C. Holden (Australia)
M. Jamiolkowski (Italy)
G.A. Jones (South Africa)
J. Schmertmann (USA)
G. Stefanoff (Bulgaria)
J. Trofimenkov (USSR)
• Dynamic Probing (DP)
K.J. Melzer (FRG), Chairman
G. Sanglerat (France)
G. Stefanoff (Bulgaria)
U. Bergdahl (Sweden)
• Weight Sounding Test (WST)
B.B, Broms (Sweden), Chairman
T. Muromachi (Japan)
U. Bergdahl (Sweden)
After the San Fransisco Conference the ISSMFE President
renewed the Technical Committee on Penetration Testing
with new terms of reference viz:
l. Propose Reference Test Proeectures for commonly used
penetration tests including the piezocone .
2. Organise an international conference, ISOPT l, on
penetration testing 20-24 March, 1988 in Florida,
where the proposed Reference Test Proeectures could be
discussed, as well as the interpretation of the
results from different penetration testing methods
and to present new developments in penetration
testing (e.g. acoustic devices).
A number of new members were nominated and Mr U. Bergdahl
and Dr E. Sellgren were nominated Chairman and Secretary
respectively, Mr W.J. Heijnen was appointed Co-chairman
and Co-secretary.
After the committee meeting in San Fransisco, the
proposals for the Reference Test Proeectures were revised
after circulation among all committee members and all
ISSMFE member societies. Thus also the piezocone was
included in the Reference Test Proeecture for Cone
Penetration Test . The Reference Test Proeectures were
discussed at a committee meeting at the 9th ECSMFE in
Dublin 1987 and at the ISOPT l in Orlando 1988 . A final
revision of the proposals has been made after ISOPT l.
The first International Symposium on Penetration Testing,
ISOPT l, has been held in Orlando USA, 20-24th of March
1988, sponsored by the US National Society of ISSMFE, the
ASCE Geotechnical Division, the ASCE Florida Section and
the University of Florida.
During this symposium the proposed Reference Test
Proeectures were presented as well as papers on
interpretation of test results from different
penetrometers and earrelations between different test
results. Also the developments in penetration testing
were presented.
2. RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE ISSMFE TECHNICAL
as terms of reference for a future committee are listed
COMMITIEE ON PENETRATION TESTING OF SOILS
below in order of priority, as it is realised that the
Several attempts have been made since 1957 to
internationally standardize different penetration testing
methods. As mentioned above, recommended standards for
Europe were approved in 1977 and 1981 . However, no world­
wide agreement on the equipment and proeectures for
penetration testing have been reached. Therefore, it is a
great pleasure for the technical committee now to present
such an aggreement and to ask for its approval by ISSMFE .
The technical committee has ehosen the term: "Reference
Test Procedure" as the term "Standard" is obligatory in
many countries. Recommendations are presented as
Reference Test Proeecture for four existing penetration
testing methods:
* Cone Penetration Test CPT)
* Standard Penetration Test (SPT)
* Dynamic Probing (DP)
* Weight Sounding Test (WST)
work which could be undertaken during a four year term is
limited .
(a) Continuing review of reference test proeectures in
light of new research findings and new developments
(e . g. piezocone).
(b) Development of reference test proeectures for other
tests (e.g. Marchetti dilatometer, pressuremeter) to
control new methods early in their development and
avoid the problems that have been experienced in the
pas t .
(c) Critical review of existing earrelations between
penetration test results and geotechnical
engineering parameters and productian of recommended
earrelations applicable to reference tests. (This
should commence with only a few parameters e.g.
strength, rather than tackle all earrelations
together.)

The Reference Test Proeectures presented in Appendices A
to D specify not only the main dimensions of the
penetrometers and test procedures, but also details
influencing the test results, accurracy in measuring
devices, etc.
Complete reports on the different penetrometers with
background, use of the penetrometers and evaluation of
test results can be find in Proceectings of ISOPT l,
Orlando 1988.
(d) In the case of the CPT, as (c) above but for soil
identification in connection with key borings.
(e) Investigation of earrelations between different
penetration testing methods.
f) Review the application of the various methods to the
prediction of engineering behaviour (hearing
capacity and settlement) and identify the
limitations of the various penetration testing
methods.

In order to make it easy to find the details for the

different penetration testing method the working parties The committee has got an invitation from the British
have followed the general organization below. Geotechnical Society (BGS) in which BGS express its
willingness to serve as. hast society for TC 16 during the
l . Scope next four years period . Also the societies in France and
2. Definitions The Netherlands have expressed similar interest. The
3. Equipment British Geotechnical Society has proposed Eugene Toolan
4. Testing proeecture and Chris Clayton as chairman and Secretary respectively.
5. Precision of messurements
6. Precautions, checks and verifications Respectfully submitted:
7. Calibration
8. Special features Mr P Abbona, Argentina
9. Reporting of results Mr C Arce, Argentina
10. Deviations from the reference test Dr J C Halden,. Australia
11. Explanatory nates and comments Prof E De Beer, Belgium
Mr E H G Gaelen, Belgium
In order to make it possible throughout the world to Prof A van Wambeke, Belgium
campare various field test results, the Technical Dr L Decourt, Brazil
Committee also recommends that papers to international Mr A H Teixeira, Brazil
conferences and journals should also include test Prof G Stefanoff, Bulgaria
results, either performed in accordance with one of the Dr R G Campanella, Canada
Reference Test Proeectures in Appendices A to D or other Ing A Bacmanakova, Czechoslovakia
methods which can be related to them quantitatively by Dr H Denver, Denmark
research. It is also recommended that the Reference Test Dr K J Melzer, FRG
Proeectures should be published separately both in English Prof M Tammirinne, Finland
and French. Mr S Amar, France
Prof F Baguelin, France
Considerable progress has been made by the Committee's Mr L Parez, France
work and this should be used by ISSMFE as a foundation on Prof G Sanglerat, France
which to build. The committee therefore recommends that Dr B Kralik, Hungary
the work should continue, under a new hast society, after Dr M D Desai, India
the Rio Conference in 1989 if only to serve as a focal Prof A Komornik, Israel
point for penetration testing development in the future. Prof J G Zeitlen, Is rael
However, in practical terms there are more definitive Prof E Zolkov, Israel
aspects which a future committee should address. This Prof M Jamiolkowski, Italy
committee's suggestions for these, which could be adopted Dr T Muromachi, Japan

4
Mr W J Heijnen, Netherlands, co-chairman
Mr K Joustra, Netherlands
Mr T Lunne, Norway
Dr K Senneset, Norway
Mr I Saeed, Pakistan
Mr G A Jones, South Africa
Dr K W Lo, south East Asia
Mr U Bergdahl , Sweden, chairman
Dr E Sellgren, Sweden, secretary
Mr B A Leach , United Kingdom
Mr I K Nixon, United Kingdom
Mr S Thorburn, United Kingdom
Prof J Osterberg , USA
Prof J H Schmertmann, USA
Mr Y G Trofimenkov, USSR

5
 APPENDIX A

INTERNATIONAL REFERENCE TEST PROCEDURE

FOR CONE PENETRATION TEST (CPT)
l. SCOPE
The cone penetration test consists of pushing inta the
soi l, at a sufficiently slow rate, a se ri es of
cylindri cal rads with a cone at the base, and measuring
in a cont inuous manner or at selected depth intervals the
pene tration resistance on the cone and, if required, the
total penetration resistance and/or the local side
frie tian resistance on a frietian sleeve. In addition,
the pore-water pressure present at the interface between
penetrometer tip and soil can be measured during
penetration by means of a pressure sensor in the cone.
This pore-water pressure includes the pore-water pressure
increase or decrease due to compression and dilation of
the saturated soil around the cone arising from the
penetration of the cone and the push rads inta the
ground.
Cone penetration tests are performed in order to obtain
sleeve is called the mantle.
data on one or more of the following subjects:
fixed cone penetrometer tip: Where the cone can
only be subjected to micro-displacements relative to
the other elements of the tip .
free cone penetrometer tip: Where t he cone can
move freely with respect to the other elements of the
tip.
2.4.2 According to the shape of the cone the following
are defined:
Simple cone: A cone having a cylindrical
extension above the conical part with a length
considerably smaller than the diameter of the cone.
Mantle eone: A cone which is extended with a
fixed more or less cylindrical sleeve of which the
diameter is smaller than the diameter of the cone and
with a length 1 to 3 times the cone diameter: this

2.4.3 Piezo-eone: A cone with a filter inserted in

l . The stratigraphy of the layers, and their homogenity the conical part or in the cylindrical extension of the
over the site, cone (see definition seetian 3.2} to measure the pore­
2. The depth to firm layers, the location of cavities, water pressure present in the soil during penetration by
voids and other discontinuities, means of a pore - water pressure sensor.
3. Soil identification,

4. Mechanical soil characteristics,

2.5 Frietian sleeve: The seetian of the pe netrometer
5. Driveability and bearing capacity of piles.
tip upon which the local side frietian resistance to be
measured is developed.

2 .6 System of measurement: The system includes the

2. DEFINITIONs
measuring deviees themselves and the means of
transmitting information from the tip to where it can be
2.1 CPT stands for Cone Penetration Test and includes
seen or recorded . For example, the following can be
what has been variously called Static Penetration Test ,
defined.
Quasi-Static Penetration Test and Dutch Sounding Test.

2.6.1 Eleetric penetrometer: Which uses electrical

2.2 Penetrometer : An apparatus consisting of a series
devices such as strain gauges, vibrating wires, etc.
of cylindrical rads with a terminal body, called the
built inta the tip.
penetrometer tip , and the measuring devices for the

determination of the cone resistance and one or more of

2 . 6.2 Meehanieal penetrometer: Which uses a set of
the fo llowing characteristics: the local side frietian
inner rods to operate the penetrometer tip .
resistance, the total resistance, the pore-water

pressure present in the immediate vicinity of the cone

2.6 . 3 Hydraulic and pneumatic penetrometer: Which
during penetration.
uses hydraulic or pneumatic devices built inta the tip .

2.3 Penetrometer tip: The terminal body with a l ength

2 . 7 Push rods: The thick-walled tubes or solid rods,
of 1000 mm at the end of the series of push rads, which
preferably with a length of l metre, used for advancing
comprises the active e lements that sense the cone
the penetrometer tip.
resistance, the local side-frietian resistance and the

pore-water pressure present at the interface of cone

2 .8 Inner rods: Solid rads which slide inside the
(definition see seetian 3 . 2} and soil during penetration .
push rods to extend the tip of a mechanical penetrometer.

2 . 3.1 Shaft: The cylindrical part of the penetrometer

2.9 Thrust maehine: The equipment that pushes the
tip above the cone and/or the frietian sleeve .
penetrometer into the soil. The necessary reaction for
this rnachine is obtained by dead weight and / or anchors.
2.4 Cone: The cone-shaped end piece of the

penetrometer tip on which the end hearing is developed .

2.10 Frietian redueer: Narrow local protuberances
outside the push rod surface, placed above the
2 . 4 . 1 According to the degree of freedom of the cone the
penetrometer tip, and provided to reduce the total
following types are defined :
frietian on the push rads.

6
2.11 Continuous and discontinuous tests (see Note 1}.
2.11.1 Continuous penetration test: A penetration
test in which the cone resistance is measured, while all
elements of the penetrometer have the same rate of
penetration.
2.11.2 Discontinuous penetration test: A penetration
test in which the cone resistance is measured, while the
other parts of the penetrometer tip remain stationary.
When a friction sleeve is also included, the sum of the
cone resistance and local side frietian resistance is
measured when both cone and frietian sleeve are pushed
down together, while the other parts of the penetrometer
tip remain stationary.
2.12. Cone resistance qc: The cone resistance qc is
obtained by dividing the ultimate axial force acting on
the cone Qc by the area of the base of the cone Ac
A
c
This resistance is expressed in MPa or kPa.
2.13 Local unit side friction resistance f
s:
The local unit side frietian resistance is obtained by
dividing the ultimate frictional force Qs acting on
the sleeve, by its surface area, As;
The local unit side frietian resistance f is
s
expressed in Pa, kPa or MPa.
2.14 Total force Qt: The force needed to push
cone and push rads tagether inta the soil. Qt is
expressed in kN.
2.15 Total side friction resistance Qst: This is
generally obtained by subtracting the ultimate force on
the cone Qc from the total force Qt
Qst is expressed in kN, as are Qt and Qc
Certain penetrometers allow Qst to be measured
directly.
2.16 Friction Ratio Rf: and Frietian Index If
(see Nate 2).
2.16.1 Friction Ratio Rf The ratio of the local
unit side frietian resistance f to the cone
s
resistance qc measured at the same depth, expressed
as a percentage.
2.16.2 Friction Index If: The ratio of the cone
resistance qc to the local unit side frietian
resistance fs measured at the same depth.
7
3. REFERENCE TIST PENETROMETER AND EQUIPMENT
3.1 General geometry of the penetrometer tip: In the
reference penetration test, penetrometer tips with or
without a frietian sleeve and with or without a porewater
pressure meter may be used. If a gap between the cone and
the other elements of the penetrometer tip exists, it
shall be kept to the minimum necessary for the operation
of the sensing devices and designed and constructed in
such a way as to prevent the entry of particles (see Nate
3}. This shall also apply to the gaps at either end of
the frietian sleeve, if one is included, and to the other
elements of the penetrometer tip. The axes of the cone,
the frietian sleeve, if included, and the body of the
penetrometer tip shall be coincident.
The diameter of the shaft of the penetrometer tip shall
nowhere be less than 0.3 mm smaller nor more than l mm
greaterthan the nominal diameter of 35.7 mm of the
reference cone.
In addition, in the case of a penetrometer tip with a
frietian sleeve, no part of the penetrometer tip shall
project beyond the sleeve diameter. An example of a
reference penetrometer is presentad in Fig. l (a) and
(b).
shaf t of the
sea \
2 sea\
Ag< 10 mm
l referred to one
s1de of the cross­
sectional area )
l c)
sleeve
watertight
sea!
l b )
Fig. l. ExampLe of a reference penetrometer with a fix ed
cone and (a) without of (b) with frietian sLeeve.
DetaiL of gap: (c).
3.2 Cone: The cone shall consist of a conical part (b) on the height hc of the conical part of the cone
and a cylindrical extension (Fig. 2); the apex angle of
the cone shall be 60° . 24 . 0 mm < h c < 31.2 mm

(c) on the height hc of the cylindrical extension:

7 mm ~ he ~ 10 mm

t-----~ =t' mm< "•'' W mm

Cones with a visible asymmetrical wear are to be
rejected.

Z4,0mm ~hc ~31,Zmm 3 . 3 Gap and seal above tbe cone (Fig. l) : The gap
between the cone and the other elements of the penetro­
surfac~ roughn~ss
~1 ,Mm l meter shall not be greater than 5 mm.

The outer limits of the gap shall be shaped in such a way

Fig . 2 . ToLerances on the dimensions of the reference
cone.
For the reference cone, the length he of the
cylindrical part directly above the conical part sha ll
not exceed 10 mm .
This also holds for the piezo-cone with the filter
element in the cylindrical extension (Fig . 3 ) .
that the measurement cannot be affected by possible
bridging by soil particles. The seal placed in the gap
shall be properly designed and manufactured to prevent
the entry of soil particles inta the penetrometer t i p . It
shall have a deformability many times larger than that o f
the s e nsing devices inside the tip. The cross- sec t i ona l
area A of the gap, remaining after deduction of the
area o~cupied by the seal, shall be less than 10 mm
2
(Fig. l) .

3 . 4 Sensing devices: The sensing devi ces f or

measuring the cone resistance and the frietian r es i stance
shall be designed in such a way that eccentricity of
these resistances cannot influence the readings . The
sensing device for the local frietian resistance shall
operate in such a way that only the shear stresses, and
not normal stresses, acting on the frietian sleeve are
recorded.

3.5 Frietian sleeve (Fig. lb): The diameter of the

frietian sleeve shall not be less than the actual
f i l t~r diameter of the base of the cone. the surface area of the
4 2
frietian sleeve shall be 1.5 x 10 mm •

Tolerances on the dimensions:

(a) on the diameter d of the frietian sleeve
s

d
c < d s < d c + o. 35 mm
Fig. 3. Piezo-cone with a fiLter eLement in the dc being the actual diameter of the base of the cone .
cyLindricaL extension .
(b) on the surface area A of the frietian sleeve
s
4 2
A
s
1.5xl0 mm +2 %. -2 %. i.e.
2
The area A of the base of the cone shall be 1000 mm 2
c
givinga cone diameter of 35.7 mm. Cone diameter is A
s
< l . 53xl0 4 mm
defined as the diameter of the cylindrical extension.
(c) on the surface roughness r of the frietian sleeve in
the direction of the longitudinal axis (see Nate 5)
The surface roughness in the longitudinal direction of
the cone shall not exceed l 11m which is equivalent to the 0.25 11m ( r ( 0.75 11m
roughness produced by the frietian of the soil . Tolerance
on the dimensions (see Nate 4) : The frietian sleeve shall be located immediately above
the cone (Fig . lb). The gaps between the frietian sleeve
(a) On the area of the base of the cone Ac and the other parts of the penetrometer tip and their
2 seals shall conform to the requirements of Section 3. 3.
A
c
1000 mm - 5 %, + 2 %
3.6 Push rads: The push rads shall be screwed or
giving a cone diameter dc attached tagether to hear against each other and to form
a rigid-jointed series with a continuous straight axis.
34.8 mm < dc < 36.0 mm The deflection (from a straight line through the ends) at
the mid-point of a l m push rad shall not exceed (i) 0 . 5
For a worn tip, the cone diameter shall be measured mm for the five lowest push rads and (ii) l mm for the
across the top seetian of the cylindrical extension. remainder.

8
For any pair of joined push rads the deflection (from a
straight line through the mid-points of the rads) at the
joint shall also not exceed these limits.
3.7 Measuring equipment: The resistances on the cone
and the frietian sleeve if included and the pore-water
pressure in case of a piezo-cone shall be measured by
suitable devices and the signals transmitted by a
suitable method to a data recording system. Recording
test data exclusively on a tape, which does not permit
direct accessibility during the test, is not recommended.
3.8 Trust machine: The rnachine shall have a strake of
at least one metre, and shall push the rads inta the soil
at a eonstant rate of penetration. The thrust rnachine
shall be anchored and/or ballasted such that it does not
move relative to the soil surface during the pushing
action.
3.9 Frietian reducer: If a frietian reducer is
included, it shall be loacted at least 1000 mm above the
base of the cone.
4. TESTING PROCEDURE
4.1 Continuous test: The testing procedure shall be
that of continuous penetration testing, in which the
measurements are made while all elements of the
penetrometer tip have the same rate of penetration.
4.2 Verticality: The thrust rnachine shall be set up
so as to obtain a thrust direction as near vertical as
practicable. The deviation from vertical of the thrust
direction shall not exceed 2%. The axis of the push rads
shall coincide with the thrust direction.
4.3 Rate of penetration: The rate of penetration
shall be 20 mm/see with a tolerance of ~5 mm /see. In case
of a piezo-cone this tolerance shall be narrowed. Between
these tolerances a eonstant rate shall be maintained
during the entire strake, even if readings are taken only
at intervals.
4.4 Interval of readings: A continuous reading is
recommended. In no case shall the interval between the
readings be more than 0.2m.
4.5 Measurement of the depth: The depths shall be
measured with an accuracy of at least 0 . 1 m.
5. PRECISION OF TIIE MEASUREMENTS
Taking inta account all possible sources of error
(parasitic frictions, errors of the measuring devices,
eccentricity of the load on the cone with respect to the
sleeve, temperature effects, etc ... ), the precision of
measurement shall not be worse than the following
whichever is the greater
5 % of the measured value
l % of the maximum value of the measured resistance in
the layer under consideration.
The precision shall be verified in the laboratory or in
the field taking inta account all possible disturbing
influences (see Nate 6).
9
6. PRECAUTIONS, CHECKS AND VERIFICATIONS
6.1 Straightness of push rods: Regular checks shall
be made on the straightness of the push rads and their
joints, particularly for the lowest five rads of the
series (see par. 3.6 and Nate 7).
6.2 Wear: Regular inspections shall be made for
wear of the cone, frietian sleeve and shaft of the
penetrometer tip.
6.3 Distance to other tests: The CPT shall not be
performed too close to existing boreholes or other
penetration tests. It is recommended that reference deep
CPT's shall not be performed closer than 25 boring
diameters from boreholes , or at least 2 m from previously
performed CPT's (see Note 8).
6.4 Seals: The seals between the different elements
of a penetrometer tip shall be regularly inspected to
determine their condition. Prior to use, the seals shall
be checked for the presence of soil particles and
cleaned.
6.5 Temperature compensation: Electric penetrometer
tips shall be temperature compensated. If the shift
observed after extracting the tip is so large that the
precision defined under Section 5 is no longer met , the
test shall be discarded as reference test.
7. CALIBRATION
7.1 Manometers: Manometers shall be calibrated at
least every 6 months . For each type of manometer, there
shall be two identical units, each with its own
calibration, available with the machine. At regular
intervals, the manometer used in the tests shall be
checked against the reserve manometer .
7.2 Load cells/proving rings: Load cells or proving
rings shall be calibrated at least every 3 months.
Regular checks on the site with an appropriate field
control unit are recommended.
8. SPECIAL FEATIJRES
8.1 Push rod guides: In order to prevent buckling,
guides shall be provied for the part of the push rads
protruding above the soil and for the push rod length in
water.
8.2 Inclinometers: In order to obtain more precise
information on the drift of the push rads in the soil,
inclinometers may be built into the penetrometer tip.
The need for such information depends on the soil
conditions, and increases with increasing depth of the
test.
8.3 Push rods with smaller diameters: In order to
decrease the skin friction on the rods, use may be made
of push rads with a smaller diameter than that of the
penetrometer tip. The distance between the smaller
diameter push rads and the cone base shall be at least
1000 mm.
8.4 Piezo-cone: The tip may be equipped with a
pore-water pressure sensing device connected to a filter
placed in the conical part or on the cylindrical part of
the cone (see Nate 9). The filter and all fluid spaces of
the piezo-cone shall be filled with water or another
suitable fluid and thoroughly deaired before each set of
tests. Preeautians shall be taken to maintain full
saturation of the filter and the other spaces of the
measuring system during transport to the test site and
during the execution of the piezo-cone penetration tests,
especially when the upper layers of the ground are not
saturated.
13. The depth of the water in the hale remaining
after withdrawal of the penetrometer, or the depth at
which the hole collapsed.
14 . Whether or not the test-hale has been backfilled
and, if so, by which method.
9.2 Besides the information indicated in Section 9.1,
the intemal files shall also record:
l.
The identification of the penetrometer tip used.
The name of the operator in charge of the crew
2.
which performed the test.
3. The dates and reference numbers of the calibration
certificates for the measuring devices.

9. REPORTING OF RESULTS 9.3 It is recommended to use the following relationship

The results shall be reported on graphs giving in
function of the depht the variation of qc and
eventually fs' Rf (If) and/or Qt and/
or Qs,t and/or u.
9. l The following information shall be reported
between the scales on the vertical and harizontal axes:
Depth scale: vertical axis
l unit length (arbitrary) for l m.
Cone resistance qc: harizontal axis
the same unit length for 2 MPa.

- on the graphs of the test results: Local side frietian resistance f : harizontal axis
s
the same unit length for 50 kPa.
l. Where the penetrometer and the test proeecture are
completely in agreement with the reference proeecture each Total penetration force Qt: harizontal axis
graph shall be marked with the letter R (~eference test the same unit length for 5 kN.
procedure). One of the following letters shall be added
to indicate the system of measurement : Total frietian Qst: harizontal axis
the same unit length for 5 kN.
M mechanical

E electrical
Pore-water pressure: harizontal axis
H hydraulic
the same unit length for 20 kPa.

The capacities of the different measuring devices of the As only values for the scale ratios are recommended, the
penetrometer tip shall be reported. unit length on the vertical axis may be ehosen
2. The date and time of the test and the name of the arbitrarily in such a way that standard sheets can be
firm. used (see Fig . 4).
3. The identification of the CPT and the location of
the site.
4. The depth over which a frietian reducer, or push
rads with a reduced diameter, has been used. The depth at 9 .4 Site plan:
which the push rads have been partly withdrawn in order
to reduce the side frietian resistance, and thus achieve For every investigation which is carried out, a clear
greater penetration depth. si te plan shall be drawn, with clear reference points in
5. Any abnormal interruption of the reference order that the locations of the penetrometer tests can be
proeecture of the CPT even as all interruptions in case of plotted accurately. Also, when made in conjunction with
a piezo-cone. bo rings, the time sequence of the borings and CPT's shall
be indicated.
on the graphs or in the report:

6. Observations made by the operator such as soil

type, sounds from the push rads, indications of stones,
disturbances, etc.
7. Data concerning the existence and thickness of
fill, or existence and depth of an excavation, and
starting level of the CPT with respect to the original or
modified soil surface.
8. The elevation of the soil surface at the location
of the test.
9. If a piezo-cone is used, a clear indication of
the position, the size and the material of the filter.
10. The readings of the inclinometer, if taken.
11. The zero readings of all sensors before and after
the test.
12. All checks made after extracting the push rads,
the condition of the push rads and the penetrometer tip.

lO
 - CONE RESISTANCE IN MP• LOCAL FRICTION f s IN MP• ~RICTION R~ TIO R t IN ;~•
60 0 .0 0.2 0.4
·10 o 20 40
·10 t -- - - t -- ----1 ·10
--- PORE WA HR
0.2 0.4 0.6
PRESSURE in MP•

Q.

•z
o
....
8a: -10

"""­
"­
""a:
E
~

....IQ.
~ -201-l~----

''
'

-30
-30 1----------'­

Remarks:
frietian reducer not ~ppleid
of th• cone abnormil inte rr uptions : none
observations no special ob!i.er vat 1ons
~~~--,--,.--,---:-::-=:-:----.;==;-;;-., f1ll/excavation old filt 4m thickness
!c--t':~~:c:---linctinometer no readings taken
zero-reading :
condition of push rads/penetrometer t 1p after test good
waterlevet in sounding hol e hol e collapsed neu surface
backfillmq none
DELFT GEOTECHNICS * precision of the measuring devices
WONINGEN TE MAASSLU/5 d•t• of test 87-02-19
CONE PENETRA T/ON TES T GO. 021RE! time 14-15 hrs

lO. DEVIATIONS FROM TIIE REFERENCE TI'ST

10.1 General: 10.2 Deviation of the eone dimension:

All deviations from the Referenee Proeedure shall be In eertain eireumstanees it may be neeessary to deviate
deseribed explieitely and eompletely on the graphs with from the Referenee Test Proeedure by adapting smaller or
the test results. l a rger eone diameters. All toleranees speeified for the
Referenee Test shall be adapted in direet proportion to
The different possible deviations are: the diameter.

10.2 deviation of the eone dimension

10.3 Deviation of the apex angle:
10.3 deviation of the apex angle of the

eone
It may be neeessary to deviate from the apex angle of the
eone, smaller or larger than 60°. Examples of
10.4 deviation of the frietian sleeve
penetrometers using eones with deviating diameters and
dimensions
deviating apex angle are given in Fig . 5 and Fig. 6,
assuming for Fig. 6 that the test is run in a eontinuous
10.5 deviation of the loeation of the frietian
testing manner.
sleeve

10.6 deviation related to th~ shape of the

penetrometer tip

10.7 deviation related to the possibility of

relative movements of the eone with respeet

to the push rods (so ealled free penetrometer

tips).

11
 point resistance [ point resistance
::::ljCI;:t:::r;p;c;=­
6 local s·1de

1'---total side
f ric t i on fri et i on

l
t otal side.J
friction
frielien sleeve

friction sleeve

l 900
!,:<139 mm
l

f--•• ....._..al 80 mm ._..__..,.,-:o!.._ao m m

Fig. 5. (a) the Andina eone penetrometer tip and

(b ) the frietian sleeve eone penetrometer tip .

Fig. 7. The Degebo frietian sleeve eleetric

penetrometer tip.

10.6 Deviation related to the shape of the

penetrometer tip:
-friction sleeve

~
In certain circumstances special electrical penetrome t e r
tips with a shape deviating from the Reference Test are
used. An example is given in Fig . 8.
l
l '
., :.. at.s mm _,..,~r----+
: ' ··--'""--"'4 5 m m

Fig. 6. (a) the Parez hydraulie penetrometer tip and frietian sleeve
(b) the frietian sleeve hydraulie penetrometer
tip.
i=

E
10.4 Deviation of the frietian sleeve dimensions: E

If the length of the frietian sleeve of a penetrometer

l EE o
o
M

havinga cone diameter of 35.7 mm deviates fromthat of 28mm i o

o
N
!ZS 28mm
the Reference tip then the surface area of the sleeve l
4 2
A should not be larger than 3.5x10 mm and not
T
s~aller than lx10 mm •
4 2

In the case of a cone diameter different from 35.7 mm the

_!_b mm 35,6 mm
surface area of the sleeve shall be adjusted proportio­
nally with respect to the cross sectional area of the
cone .
Fig. 8. The Delft eleetrie penetrometer tip
(a) without and (b) with a frietian sleeve.
10.5 Deviation of the location of the frietian
sleeve:

The distance between the base of the cone and the lower
end of the frietian sleeve can be larger than that corre ­
sponding to the reference tip. An example of penetrometer
tip with a location of the sleeve which deviates from the
reference is given in Fig. 7.

12
10.7 Deviation related to the possibility of relative
movements of the cone with respect to the push rods (so
called free cone penetrometer tips):

With a free cone penetrometer tip, testing in either

continuous or discontinuous manner is possible: (see note
10). In the case of a test run in a discontinuous manner, "
E
\Il

although the rate of down-ward movement due to the thrust u>

rnachine is known, the rate of penetration of the cone at E

E
the point of rupture of the soil can be different from l()

that of the movement due to the thrust machine. They ""

~
earrespond only when there is continuous downward 23m m
E
movements of the push rods. E
N

"' <P 14m m

10.8 Symbols and indications:
E
E Q27mm
Only the test performed according to the Reference Test o .

Proeecture can be represented by the letter R (see Section ""

N

9.1). In case of deviations, besides their explicit de­ E

scription on the graphs, also the indications M (Mechani­ E mantie
cal), E (Electrical} or H (Hydraulic), can be added as an "'
G\

indication of the measuring system, in accordance with

Section 9.1.

10.9 Mechanical penetrometer - Precautions, checks and c;l 3 7

verifications

10.9.1 Push rods

There shall not be any protruding edge on the inside of

the push rods at the screw connection between the rods Fig. 10. The Dutch mantle cone penetrometer tip.
(Fig. 9).

~35m m

~15mm

r> 30mm

Fig. 9. Not acceptable protruding edge at the iJ 20mm

screw connection
rads.

When testing in a discontinuous manner, the minimum

movement of the cone or the friction sleeve shall be 0.5
timesthe cone diameter (see Note 11).

Examples of free cone penetrometer tips in use in many

countries are presented in Fig. 10, 11, 12, 13 and 5 if
used in a discontinuous testing manner (see Note 12) .

E
E
Il'> l

Fig. 11. The Dutch frietian sleeve penetrometer tip.

13
• Note 11: Discontinuous test {10.7)

In the case of mechanical penetrometer tips, in order to

be certain that the cone and the frietian sleeve move
sufficiently with respect to the push rods, due account
shall be taken of the elastic shortening of the inner
rods . Therefore , at the surface the movement of the inner
rods relative to the push rods shall be at least equal to
the sum of the minimum imposed movement of the cone (see
Section 10.9) plus the shortening of the inner rods.

• Note 12: Simple cone {10.7, Fig. 12)

In the case of the simple cone, special preeautians shall

be taken against soil entering the sliding mechanism and
affecting the resistance measurements. After extracting
the penetrometer tip, a check shall be made , in order to
be certain that the cone stem still moves completely free
relative to the bush .

16
APPENDIX B
INTERNATIONAL REFERENCE TEST PROCEDURE
FOR THE STANDARD PENETRATION TEST (SPT)
l. SCOPE
1.1 This document describes the principles constituting
acceptable test proeectures for the SPT from which results
are comparable.
1.2 The SPT determines the resistance of soil at the
base of a borehole to the penetration of a tubular steel
sampler, and permits the recovery of a disturbed sample
for identification. The penetration resistance can be
related to the characteristics and variability of soils.
The basis of the test consists of dropping a hammer
we ighing 63.5 kgf on to a drive head from a height of 760
mm. The number of blows (N) necessary to achieve a
penetration by the sampler of 300 mm (after its
penetration under gravity and below a seating drive) is
regarded as the penetration resistance (N).
2. DEFINITIONs
2.1 SPT: is the abbreviation for the standard
pene tration test as described in this reference test
procedure.
2.2 Sampler: A tubular steel assembly having the
components described in Section 3.2.
2.3 Drive rods: Steel rods connecting the sampler
The lower end of the tube shall have a drive shoe 76 mm
to the drive head.
long plus or minus l mm having the same bore and externa!
2.4 Hammer assembly: The items of equipment which are
used to drive the sampler into the soil and which
comprise a drive head, a hammer, a guide, and releas e
mechanism.
2.5 Drive head: A steel anvil attached to the top
of the drive rods by screw threads. This anvil is an
interna! part of some hammer assembl ies, known as safety
hammers. In this case the rod coming from the assembly is
screwed on to the drive rods.
2.6 Hammer: A steel body of 63.5 kgf weight.
2.7 Guide: A steel rod to guide the hammer smoothly
through a free fall of 760 mm.
2.8 Release mechanism: A mechanical release device
to ensure that the hammer has a eonstant free fall of 760
mm.
mm
2.9 Seating Drive: The number of blows required for
19
··~tc::::::::::lc:;;(~~:~:~J_J
the initial penetration of the sampler of 150 mm.
2.10 Test drive: The number of blows after the
seating drive required for an additional penetration of
300 mm .
17
3. EQUIPMENT
3.1 Boring equipment
3.1.1 The boring equipment shall be capable of providing
a clean hole to ensure that the penetration test is
performed on essentially undisturbed soil.
3.1.2 When wash boring, a side-discharge bit shall be
used and not a bottom- discharge bit. The process of
jetting through an open tube sampler and then testing
when the desired depth is reached shall not be permitted.
3.1.3 When us ing shell and auger boring methods with
temporary casing , the drilling tools shall have diameters
not more than 90% of the interna! diameter of the casing.
3.1.4 The diameter of the borehole shall be as small as
practicable and shall be between 63 and 150 mm.
3.2 Sampler
The tube of the sampler shall be made of hardened steel
with smooth interna! and externa! surfaces. The externa!
diameter shall be 51 mm plus or minus l mm and the
interna! diameter throughout shall be 35 mm plus or minus
l mm. Its length shall be 457 mm minimum.
diameter as the tube. Over the lowermost 19 mm the drive
shoe shall taper uniformly inwards. A sharp cutting edge
should be avoided as shown on Fig. l. The material shall
be the same as that of the tube.
At the upper end of the tube a steel eaupling shall be
fitted to connect with the drive rods. Inside shall be a
non-return valve with wide vents in the eaupling wall,
which are of sufficient size to permit unimpeded escape
of air or water on entry of the sample. The valve shall
provide a watertight seal when withdrawing the sampler.
The drive shoe shall be replaced when it becomes damaged
or distorted and the sampler shall be clean and free from
soil encrustation, internally and externally.
One acceptable form of the sampler is shown in
Fig l.
~ ~~bVEE --1 1,-- COUPUNG ~
T! i+ --r1
SPLIT SAFIREL l
l~ _J- '57mm(m onomum ) -)...j
L 76mm ~ 152mm
Fig. 1. Cross seetian of SPT sampLer
3.3 Drive rods
3.3.1 The steel drive rods, connecting the sampler to
the drive head shall have a section modulus appropriate
to their total length and lateral restraint .
Appropriate section properties are:
Rod Diameter Section Modulus Rod Weight
3
(mm} (x 10- 6 m } (kgf/m}
40.5 4.28 4.33
50 8.59 7.23
60 12.95 10.03
Rods heavier than 10.03 kgf/m shall not be used.
3.3.2 Only straight rods shall be used and periodic
checks shall be made on site. When measured over the
whole length or each rod the relative deflection shall
not be greater than 1 in 750.
3.3.3 The rods shall be tightly coupled by screw joints.
3.4 Hammer assembly
3.4.1 The hammer assembly shall comprise:
a. A steel drive head tightly screwed to the top of the
drive rods. It can be an interna! part of the
assembly, as with safety hammers. The energy
transferred on impact shall be maximised by a
suitable design of drive head.
b. A steel hammer of 63.5 kgf {plus or minus 0.5 kgf}
weight.
c. A guide to ensure that the hammer drops with minimal
resistance.
d. A mechanical release mechanism which will ensure that
the hammer has a eonstant free fall of 760 mm .
3 . 4.2 The overall weight of that part of the hammer
assembly that rests on the drive rods shall not exceed
115 kgf.
3.4.3 In situations where comparisons of SPT results are
important, calibrations shall be made to evaluate the
effici ency of the equipment in terms of energy transfer.
In such cases N val ues shall be adjusted by calibration
to a reference energy of 60 per cent of the nominal
kinetic energy in a 63.5 kgf hammer after free fall of
760 mm, namely 474 Joules. The reference energy shall be
measured immediately below the drive head .
4. TFST PROCEDURE
4.1 Preparation of borehole
4.1.1 The borehole shall be carefully cleaned out to the
test elevation using equipment that will ensure the soil
to be tested is not disturbed. When boring in soils that
will not allow a hole to remain stable, casing and/or
bentonite drilling fluid shall be used. Hollow stem auger
casing shall not be used for tests below groundwater.
18
4.1.2 When boring below the groundwater table the
surface of the water or drilling fluid in the borehole
shall at all times be maintained at a sufficient distance
above the groundwater level to minimise disturbance. The
level of the water or drilling fluid in the borehole
shall be maintained during withdrawal of the boring tools
and throughout the test to ensure hydraulic balance at
the test elevation.
4.1.3 The drilling tools, eg, the shell, shall be
withdrawn slowly to prevent suction effects eausing
laosening of the soil to be tested.
4.1.4 When casing is used, it shall not be driven below
the level at which the test is to commence.
4.2 Execution of test
4.2.1 The sampler shall be lowered to the bottom of the
borehole on the drive rods with the hammer assembly on
top. The initial penetration under this total deadweight
shall be recorded. Where this penetration exceeds 450 mm
the test drive will be omitted and the 'N' value taken as
zero.
After the initial penetration, the test will be executed
in two stages:
Seating Drive: The sampler shall be driven to a depth
of penetration of 150 mm into the soil and the number of
blows to achieve this penetration shall be recorded. If
the 150 mm penetration cannot be achieved in 50 blows,
the depth of penetration achieved after 50 blows shall be
taken as the seating drive. In this case the depth shall
be recorded.
Test Drive: The number of blows required for
subsequent 300 mm penetration is termed the
penetration resistance (N}. The number of blows
required to effect each 150 mm of penetration shall be
recorded. The test drive may be terminated after 50 blows
in either of the 150 mm increments . The number of blows
shall be recorded for each 150 mm increment or the depth
of penetration achieved shall be recorded if the test is
terminated at 50 blows .
The rate of application of hammer blows shall not be
excessive such that there is the possibility of not
achieving the standard drop or preventing equilibrium
conditions prevailing between successive blows.
Typically, the maximum rate of application of blows is 30
per minute.
4. 3 Recovery of soi l sample and labelling
4 . 3.1 The sampler shall be raised to the surface and
opened. The representative sample or samples of the soil
in the sampler shall be placed in an air-tight container .
4.3.2 Labels shall be fixed to the containers with the
following information:
a. Site
b. Borehole number
c. Sample number
d. Depth of penetration
e. Length of recovery
f. Date of test
g. standard penetration resistance (N}
5. REPORTING OF RFSULTS

The following information shall be reported :

l. Site.
2. Date of boring to test elevation.
3. Date and time of commencement and end of test.
4. Borehole number.
5. Boring method and diameter of base of borehole and

whether it contained water or drilling fluid.

6. Dimensions and weight of drive reds used for the

penetration tests. The weight of drive head also

shall be stated.

7. Type of hammerand release mechanism.

8. Height of free fall.
9. Depth to bottom of borehole (before test).
10. Depth to bottom of casing.
11. Information on the groundwater level and the leve! of
water or drilling fluid in the borehole at the start
of each test.
12. The depth of initial penetration and the depths
between which the penetration resistances (seating
and test drives) were measured.
13. The number of blows required for each successive 150
mm increment of penetration (for the seating drive
and for the test drive); eg, 12/15/16. The depth of
penetration achieved shall be reported if the test is
terminated at 50 blows, eg, 20/45/50 - 100 mm or
30/50 - 75 mm.
14 . The descriptions of soils as identified from the
samples in the sampler.
15. Observations concerning the stability of strata
tested or obstructions encountered during the tests
etc which will assist the interpretation of the test
results.
16 . Results of calibration tests, where appropriate
(Clause 3 . 4.3).

6. APPENDIX

Deviations from the reference test .

(i) The document entitled "Standard Penetration Test

(SPT) : International Reference Test Procedure" and
presented by the Working Party at ISOPT-1, Orlando,
USA, March 20-24 1988, identified variations in
equipment and proeectures evolved by the member
countries of the ISSMFE.

(ii) The variations listed below are indicative of the

current situation and trends.

a. The interna! diameter of the barrel of the

sampler being 3 mm greater than the standard
35 mm interna! diameter of the drive shoe
(USA).
b. The use of a solid steel cone in lieu of the
standard drive shoe for tests in gravels and
weak rocks (United Kingdom, FRG and Austra­
lia).
c. The elimination of the influence of the drive
reds by means of a hammer positioned
immediately above the sampler (M E Schultze
1961) : Contributian to discussion, proc 5th
Int Conf of ISSMFE, Paris., Vol III, p183 .

19
APPENDIX C
INTERNATIONAL REFERENCE TEST PROCEDURES
FOR DYNAMIC PROBING (DP)
l. SCOPE
The expression probing is used to indicate that a
continuous record is obtained from the test in contrast
to, for example, the Standard Penetration Test {SPT). The
aim of dynamic probing is to measure the effort required
to drive a cone through the soil and so obtain resistance
values which earrespond to the mechanical properties of
the soil. Four proeectures are recommended:
Dynamic probing light {DPL) representing the lower
end of the mass range of dynamic penetrometers used
wo rldwide; the investigation depth usually is not larger
than about 8 m if reliable results are to be obtained .
Dynamic probing medium (DPM) representing the
medium mass range; the investigation depth usually is not
larger than about 20 to 25 m.
Dynamic probing heavy (DPH) representing the medium
to very heavy mass range; the investigation depth usually
is not larger than about 25 m.
Dynamic probing superheavy {DPSH) representing the
upper end of the mass range of dynamic penetrometers and
simulating closely the dimensions of the SPT; the
investigation depth can be largPr than 25 m.
2. DEFINITIONS
2.1 General Principles and Nomenciature
A hammer of mass M and a height of fall H is used
to drive a pointedprobe (cone).The hammerstrikes an
anvil which is rigidly attached to extension
rods. The penetration resistance is defined as the
number of blows required to drive the penetrometer a
defined distance. The energy of a blow is the mass of the
hammer times the acceleration of gravity and times the
height of the fall (MxgxH). The results of different
types of dynamic probing may be presented (and/or
compared) as resistance values qd or rd (see
Note l, Section 10).
Dynamic probing is mainly used in cohesionless soils. In
interpreting the test results obtained in cohesive soils
and in soils at great depths, eautian has to be taken
when friction along the extension rod is significant, see
seetian 7 . Dynamic probing can be used to detect soft
layers and to locate strong layers as, for example, in
cohesionless soils for end-hearing piles {DPH, DPSH). In
connection with key borings, soil type and cobble and
boulder contents can be evaluated under favourable
conditions. The results of the DPL can also be used to
evaluate trafficability and workability of soils .
20
After proper calibration, the results of dynamic probing
can be used to get an indication of such engineering
properties as, e.g . ,
relative density
compressibility
shear strength and
consistency
For the time being, quantitative interpretation of the
results including predietians of hearing capacity remains
restricted mainly to cohesionless soils; it has to be
taken into account that the type of cohesionless soil
(grain size distribution, etc) may influence the test
results.
2.2 Classification
Four different probing methods, types DPL , DPM , DPH and
DPSH, are recommended to fit different topographic and
geological conditions and various purposes of investiga­
tion. Apparatus , test procedures, measurements and recor­
ding are described in the following Sections. Technical
data are summarized in Table l. Other types of equipment
may be required for special purposes or different cone
dimensions (see Section 9).
3• EQUIPMENT
3.1 Driving Device
The driving device consists of the hammer, the anvil and
the guide rod. Dimensions and mass es are given in Table
l.
The hammer shall be provided with an axial hole with a
diameter which is about 3-4 mm larger than the diameter
of the guide rod . The ratio of the length to the diameter
of the cylindrical hammer shall be between l and 2 . The
hammer shall fall freely and not be connected to any
object which may influence the acceleration and
dece leration of the hammer. The velacity shall be
negligible when the hammer is released in its upper
position (see Section 6).
The anvil shall be rigidly fixed to the extension rods.
The diameter of the anvil shall not be less than 100 mm
and not more than half the diameter of the hammer. The
axis of anvil, guide rod and extension rod shall be
straight with a maximum deviation of 5 mm per meter.
 The maximum permissible wear of the cone is given in
Table l. Technical data of the equipment.
Table l. The cone shall be attached to the rod in such a
manner that it does not laosen during the driving. Fixed
--
F'actor
DPL
Reference
DPM
Tist P rocedu re
DPH OPSI!
or "lost" (detachable} cones can be used.

Hammer mass, kg 1D
" D. l 3D
" o.3 50 • o.5 63 . 5 ± o . 5
Height of fall , m 0 . 5 ± 0 . 0 1 o' 5 ± o . o 1 0 . 5 ± o . o 1 D. 7 5 ± o . 02
4. TEST PROCEDURE
Mass of an vi l and 6 18 18 30
g u ide rod (max J, kg
4.1 General
Re bo und
Length
rati o
(max), %
to d i umeter l Dl
( hammer l
)'l
50
<;2 ";>l
50
,;;2 ,, 50
~ 2 ;> l
50
• 2

Di ameter of anvil Id l , mm 1OO.c d <O. 50 1 QQ .(d<. O. 50 1 OO < d <.O . 50 100<d<0.5D

Criteria for the purpose of a test should be specified in
advance. The depth required will depend on the local
Ro d length, m 1 ± o. l % 1-2 ± o . 1% 1-2 ± o . 1 % 1-2 ± o . 1 % conditions and the purpose of the particular test.
Maximum mass of rad, kg/m 3 6 6 8
Rod deviation (max l , o. 1 o. l o. l o. l
first 5 m, %
Ro d deviation (max), 0. 2 D. 2 o.2 0.2
4.2 Probing Equipment
below 5 m, %
Ro d eccentr i city (max) , mm o 2 D. 2 o.2 D. 2
o
Probing shall be effected vertically unless specified
Ro d OD , mm 22 ± o. 2 32 ± 0 . 3 32 ± o . 3 32 ± 0 . 3
otherwise. The probing equipment shall be firmly
Ro d ID , mm 6 o.2 9 ± 0 .2 9 ± o.2 ­
" supported. The cone and the extension rods must be guided
Apex an g le, deg . 90 90 90 90 at the beginning of a test to keep the rads straight.
Bas e area of con e , cm2 lo 1o 15 20 Pre-boring may be required.
Cone diameter , new, mm 35 . 7 ± D. 3 35 . 7 ± o . 3 43 . 7 ± 0 . 3 5l ± 0.5
Con e di am . (min) , worn , mm 34 34 42 49 The diameter of the bore hale shall be slightly larger
Man t le lengtl1 of cone, mm 35. 7 ± 1 35 . 7 ± l 43. 7 ± l 5l ± 2
than that of the cone. The test rig shall be positioned
Con etape r a ng le, Il Il Il Il
upper, deg . in such a way that the extension rads cannot be bent
Length of con e t i p, mm l 7 . 9 ± o . 1 17 . y ± o . l 2 l .9 t o . l 25 . 3 t o.4 above the ground surface.
max wear of con e tip
length, mm 3 3 4 5

Number of blows l o cm ; NIO 1Ocm ; lO cm ; NI O 20 cm ; N2o

4.3 Driving
N1 0
per cm penet ra tio n
standard rang e of blows 3 - 50 3 - 50 3 - 50 5 - l 00
The penetrometer shall be continuously driven inta the
subsoil. The driving rate should be kept between 15 and
Specif i c work per blow : 50 150 l 67 238
Mg H/ A , kJ/m2 30 blows per minute except either when it is already
l known by borings or has been identified by sound that
sands or gravels are being penetrated; in this case the
driving rate can be increased up to 60 blows per minute.
3.2 Extension Rods Experience has shown that the driving rate in such soils
has only a minor influence on the results.
Dimensions and masses of the extension rads are given in
Table l. The rod material shall be of high-strength steel All interuptions shall be recorded in the site log. All
with high resistance to wear, have a high toughness at f ac t ors which may influence the penetration resistance
low temperatures and a high fatigue strength. Permanent (e.g. tightness of the rod couplings, straightness of
deformations must be capable of being corrected. The rads extension rads) should be checked regularly . Any
s hall be straight . Solid rads can be used; hollow rads deviations from the recommended test pro eectures shall be
should be preferred in order to reduce the weight (see recorded. The rads shall be rotated one and a half turn
Section 7}. The rod joints shall be flush with the rods every meter to keep the hale straight and vertical, and
(see Section 6). to reduce skin frietian (see Section 7}. When the depth
exceeds 10 m, the rads shall be rotated more often, e.g.
every 0.2 m. It is recommended to use a mechanized
3.3 Cones rotat ing device for large depths.

Dimensions of cones are given in Table l . The cone

consists of a conical part (tip), a cylindrical extension
5.
and a conical transition with a length equal to the
diameter of the cone between the cylindrical extension
The number of blows should be recorded every 0.1 m for
and the rod (Fig. l). The cones when new shall have a tip
DPL, DPM and DPH (N ) andevery 0.2 m for DPSH (N )
with an apex angle of 90°. 10 20
(see Section 9}. The blows can easily be measured by
marking the defined penetration depth (0.1 or 0.2 m) on
the rads. The normal range of blows - especially in view
of any quantitative interpretation of the test results ­
is between N10 = 3 and 50 for DPL, DPM and DPH and
between N20 = 5 and 100 for DPSH. The rebound per blow
should be less than 50 %of the penetration per blow. In
exceptional cases (outside these ranges}, when the
penetration resistance is low, e.g. in soft clays, the
penetration depth per blow can be recorded. In hard
0.10 soils, where the penetration resistance is very high, the
penetration for a certain number of blows can be
Fig. l. Scheme of cones and rads (for dimensions see recorded.
Table l; D = cone diameter)

21
 PROJECT
It is recommended to measure the torque required for LOCATION lSHEET-NO
DATE
SECTION JHOL(· NO OPERATOR
rotating the extension rods to estimate skin friction . ELEVATlONS
The skin frietian can also be measured by means of a slip GROUNO SURfACE GROUNO WAfER TABLE REFH1Ehi:E U:V<L
eaupling close to the cone.
PIJRPOSE CF TE.ST lTYPE
ECUIPHENT: O'r'NAMI( PROBING
ROO CASING POINT DRILLING FlUID
CEPTH &LOW ~ HEGIT NUM&R NOTATIONS :
The precision of measuring the total depth of penetration REFEREN:E OF FAl OF El.O"'''S INTERRUPTDNS ROTATION SOJMJS
LEVEL m kq m PER 0.2 m REASON FOR T(RHINATING. kOO SHAPE
(tip of the cone) shall be + 0.02 m.
- -
- -
6. PRECAUTIONS, CHECKS AND VERIFICATIONS --j
The free-falling hammer should be raised slowly to ensure
- - -
that the inertia of the hammer does not carry it above
the defined height. Also the pickup assembly should be - -
lowered slowly to avoid significant impact on the hammer . -
- -
The deflection (from a straight line through the ends) at - -
the mid point of a 1-m push rod shall not exceed l mm for -
­
-
the five lowest push rods and 2 mm for the remainder. l -
- -
The tip length of the cone may be cut e.g. by wear for -
less than 10 % of the diameter, of the theoretical tip
length of the cone. Fig. 2. ExampLe of site Log from dynamic probing

The maximum deviation of the test rig is 2%, i .e.

(horizontal) to 50 (vertical).

Curvature and eccentricity are best measured by eaupling

a rod tagether with a straight rod and holding the
straight rod in contact with a plane surface.
7. SPECIAL FEA'I'URI'S
To eliminate skin friction, dri]ling mud can be injected
through holes in the hollow rods near the cone. The holes
have to be directed horizontally or slightly upwards. The
injection pressure should be sufficient so that the
drilling mud fills the annular space between the soil and
the rod. Alternatively, casing can be used.
The probing results shall be presented in diagrams which
show the N or N values on the harizontal axis and the
10 20
depth on the vertical axis. An example is given in Fig.
3. If other measurements are taken such as the
penetration per blow or the penetration per a certain
number of blows, these values should be transformed to
N10 , N20 or rd' qd values before drawing or
numbering the diagram. Alternatively, it may be
advantageous to transform the number of blows per defined
penetration inta resistance values rd or qd.
The resistance values shall be plotted on the harizontal
axis.

Instead of the hollow extension rods (OD = 22 mm) of the
DPL, solid rods of OD = 20 mm are being used.
8. REPORTING OF RESULTS
If the test was conducted according to the RTP, the
letter R should appear on site logs, graphs etc. followed
by the abbreviation of the penetrometer type (see Fig.
3). All divergences from the RTP must be described
completely on logs and graphs containing test results.

The following information shall be reported:

a) Location of probing
Type of investigation BLOWS PER O.1 m , N 10
Purpose of probing DPL 10 20
Date of probing
Number of probing 0.5 ELEVATION , 12.3 m NAP
b) Probing number, evaluation and location of probing E 1.0 GROUNOWAfER LEV EL o 10.3 m NAP
and of the borehole (in case of reference boring). ~ 1.5 TYPE OF PENETROMETER: R DPL
Position of the test rig with respect to the ground :J: PROJEC T- NUMBER : zw 7
surface. Elevation or depth of the ground water table
fu 2.0 DATE OF TEST: 88·03-12
Cl
2.5 NUMBER OF TEST:
c) Equipment used. Type of penetrometer, cone, rod, 13
casing, bentonite etc. LOCATION : XBOURG
d) Mass of hammer, height of fall and number of blows
required per defined penetration Fig. 3. ExampLe of the presentation of the test resuLts
e) Elevation or depth at which the rods were rotated from dynamic probing (DPL)
f) Deviations from the normal procedure such as
interruption or damage to rods
g) Observations made by the operator such as soil type,
sounds in the extension rods , indication of stones,
disturbances, etc.

An example of a site log is shown in Fig. 2.

22
9. DKVIATIONS FROM THE REFERENCE TEST

Some light penetrometers have hammers of 20 kg mass (e.g.

Bulgarian State standard 8994-70); in some countries
2
cones with base areas of 5 cm are used (e.g. Belgium,
German Standard DIN 4094). In Australia, light
penetrometers without cones are used during quality
controls of compacted sands. Some medium penetrometers
have hammers of 20 kg mass, and heights of fall of 20 cm
are being used in some countries (e.g. DIN 4094 of FRG,
and Switzerland). Also, a height of fall of 50 cm is used
in some instances of the DPSH (e.g. Finland). In France,
besides the DPSH the DPA of the ISSMFE European
Recommended Standard is also used as a reference test
(Proc. IXth Intern. Conf. on Soil Mech. and Found. Eng.,
Vol. III, p. 110, Tokyo, 1977); e.g. the diameter and the
shape of the cone are slightly different.

In regard to the extension rods of DPSH, it is

recommended to increase the OD from 32 to 36 mm (this
suggestion comes from France, Spain and Sweden).

In the case of DPL, DPM and DPH, the numbers of blows are
occasionally counted per 0 . 2 m depth interval of
penetration. For DPSH , a 0.3 m depth interval is used
occasionally.

10. EXPLANATORY NOTES AND COMMENTS

• Note l

Equations for rd and qd are:

Mg H
r
d A e

M M g H
x
M + M' A e

where:

rd and qd are resistance values in

Pa, kPa or MPa
M is the mass of the hammer
M' is the total mass of the extension rods, the
anvi l and the guiding rods
H is the height of fall
e is the average penetration per blow
A is the area at base of the con e
g is the acceleration of gravity

rd- and qd-resistances do not relate to

strength ranges that the corresponding mechanical device
can sustain. Especially at high resistances, rd- and
qd-diagrams should be analysed with caution.

23
APPENDIX D
INTERNATIONAL REFERENCE TEST PROCEDURE
FOR THE WEIGHT SOUNDING TEST (WST)
1. SCOPE
The weight-penetrometer consists of a screw-shaped point,
rads, weights and a handle, Fig. l. It is used as a
static penetrometer in soft soils when the penetration
resistance is less than l kN. When the resistance exceeds
l kN the penetrometer is rotated and the number of
rotations for a given depth of penetration is noted. Its
ability to penetrate even stiff clays and dense sands is
good. The penetrometer is primarily used to give a
continuous soil profile and an indication of the layer
sequence and to determine the lateral extent of different
soil layers. It is also used to determine whether
cohesionless soils are loose, medium-dense or dense and
to estimate the relative strength of cohesive soils. The
results obtained in cohesionless soils are also used to
get an indication of the bearing capacity of spread
faotings and piles.
_ _-re..,__=- Tap
Handie
Weights 25 kg
~~~E:::Weights 10 kg
-c Ball clamp 5 kg
Piece of wood
Se raper
(Rubber)
1.00m
0.80m
Rod 16 22 mm
Screw point
Fig. l. Detaits on the manuatty operated weight
penetrometer.
2. DEFINITIONs
WST stands for Weight Sounding Test both manually and
mechanically operated.
WST penetration resistance is either the smallest
standard load when the penetrometer sinks without
rotation or the number of halfturns per 0.2 m of
penetration when the penetrometer have its maximum load
(1.0 kN) and is rotated.
24
3. EQUIPMENT
3.1 Weights
These comprise one 5 kg clamp, two 10 kg weights, three
25 kg weights. Total 100 kg . The weights can be replaced
by a dynamometer when the penetrometer is installed
manuallyor mechanically inta the soil.
3.2 Rod and eaupling
3.2.1 The diameter of the rad should be 19-25 mm,
preferably 22 mm. Regarding material and the influe nce of
rad diameter, see note l para. 11.
3.2.2 The deviation from the straight axis should not
exceed 4° l *) for the lowest 5 m of the rad and
o 00
8 /
00
*) for the remainder. Determination of the
deviation of the rads see Fig. 2 . Maximum allowable
eccentricity of the eaupling is 0.1 mm. Maximum angular
deviation for a joint between two straight rods is 0 . 005
rad.
3.2.3 Flush joints should be used.
b c. ad ~ l. 0/oo FOR THE 5 LOWER RODS
_o_b_
~ 8%o FOR THE OTHER RODS
Fig. 2. Determination of the deviation from the
straight axis of rads.
3.3 Point
3.3.1 Manufactured from a 25 mm square steel bar with a
total length of 0.2 m. The bar has a 80 mm lang pyram id al
tip. The point is twisted one turn to the left over a
length of 130 mm as shown in Fig. 3. If the poi n t should
be attached to other rod diamete rs than 22 mm as shown in
Fig. 3 the upper conical part should end with the same
diameter as the rod.
*) These deviations earrespond in case of an even
curvature to a deflexion of 1-2 mm in 1 m length
respectively.
 3.3.2 The diameter of the circumscribed circle of the
point shall not exceed 35.0 ~0.2 mm for a new point and
shall not be less than 32.0 ~0.2 mm for a worn point. The
diameter shall be checked by circular gauges with
different inner diameters.
4.1.1 The rod is loaded in steps using the following
reference loads.
loads in kN mass in kg

Maximum allowable shortening of the length of the point o o

is 15 mm due to wear. The tip of the point shall not be 0.05 5
bent or broken. 0.05 + 0.10 0.15 5 + lO 15
0.15 + 0.10 0 . 25 15 + lO 25
0 . 25 + 0.25 0.50 25 + 25 50
3.4 Additional tools 0.50 + 0.25 0.75 50 + 25 75
0.75 + 0.25 1.00 75 + 25 100
Two fixed wrenches, a handle, extraction device
and augers for preboring.
4.1.2 The load shall be adjusted to give a rate of
penetration of about 50 mm/see. This means that the rod
must be partly unloaded when a layer of stiff soil, such
as a dried crust, has been penetrated.
OIMENSIONS JN mm
4.1.3 If the penetration resistance exceeds l kN or the
penetration rate at l kN is less than 20 mm / see the rod
should be rotated. The load l Y~ is maintained and the
number of half turns required to give 0.2 m of
penetration is measured. The rod must not be rotated when
the penetration resistance is less than l kN.

4.2 Mechanized weight sounding

4.2.1 Tests are carried out in a similar manner as for

the manual soundings. The rod is rotated mechanically in
stiff soils.

4.2.2 The applied load is measured by a dynamometer or

a measuring cell attached to the machine.
x!
NEW POINT f
4.2.3 When the penetration resistance is less than l kN
35.0 !0.2 mm and rotation is not required, the engine must be stopped
WORN POINT~
32 .0! 0.2 mm to prevent the vibrations from the engine to affect the
measured penetration resistance. The rate of rotation
should be between 15 and 40 rpm and should not exceed 50
rpm. The average rate of rotation should be 30 rpm. (See
note 2 para. 11.)

Fig. 3. Tolerances for the manufacture of weight

penetrometer points, applicable to 22 mm rads. 4.3 General considerations

4.3.1 The possible need to prebare through the upper

soil layers shall be estimated in each case. (See note 3
para. 11.)

4.3.2 The criteria to be used for the termination of a

4. TESTING PROCEDURE WST test shall be stated for each investigation, e.g.
exceed the minimum penetration resistance or reach a
4.1 Manual weight sounding**) minimum depth. (See note 4 para. 11.)

When the penetrometer is used as a static penetrometer in

soft soils the test should be carried out in accordance 5. PRECISION OF MEAS!JRE2o!ENTS
with clauses 4.1.1 and 4.1.2. In stiffer soils the
penetrometer should be rotated as described in clause The maximum allowable deviation of the weights and the
4 .l. 3. dynamometer scale is ~5%.

The maximum allowable deviation from total penetrated

depth is 0.1 m.

**) When manually operated vibrations and sounds from the

rod gives a better indication of the soil penetrated.
Such indications are often lost when the penetrometer is
mechanically operated.

25
6. PRECAUTIONS, CHECKS AND VERIFICATIONS
Regular checks of the straightness of reds shall be made,
particularly the lowest five reds, c.f. par. 3.2.2.
Regular inspection shall be made for wear of the point,
c.f. 3.3.2.
WST must not be performed too close to previous soundings
or borings, normally the distance should be ~ 2 m.
7. CALlERATION
Weight pieces should be checked at delivery and marked.
Dynamometer should be calibrated at !east every 6 months
or when any changes/services is made in the apparatus.
8. SPECIAL FEA'l'URES
In order to prevent buckling of the rods when sounding in
water the WST ought to be performed in a casing.
9. REPORTING OF RESULTS
9.1 Penetration resistance
9 .1 .1 When the penetration resistance is less than l kN
the reference load required to give a rate of penetration
of about 50 mm /see shall be recorded against the depth
(Fig. 4). It should be noted in the boring log and on
drawings whether weights or a dynamometer have been used.
(See note 5 para 11.)
9.1.2 When the penetration resistance exceeds l kN, the
number of halfturns required for every 0.2 m of
penetrationshall be recorded (Fig. 4) .
9.1.3 When the penetrometer is driven by blows of a
hammer or some of the weights, the depths penetrated
during driving shall be recorded.
9.2 General notes
9.2.1 All observations which may help in the
interpretation of the test results shall be noted in the
boring log, e.g. diameter of reds, sounds and vibrations
in the rods when the point penetrates cohesionless soils
(stones, grave! and sand). Also interruptions etc. shall
be recorded.
9.2.2 The type of rotating equipment and the rate of
rotation shall also be noted in the boring log.
9.3 Presentation of test results
The form of presenting the results of weight sounding
tests is shown as an example in Fig 4.
26
E
::!:
I
l­
:!; 5
o
7
WST 22 WEIGHT SOUNOING TEST. Z2 mm RODS
ht/0.2 m NUMBER OF HALFTURNS PER 0.2 m
OF PENETRATION
DRY CRUST OF CLAY
PREBORING TO THIS LEVEL WITH BO mm
DIAM AUGER
DIAGRAM TO THE LEFT INDICATE LOADS APPUED IN kN
Fig. 4. An example of the presentation of test results
from weight sounding test (WST) with 22 mm rods.
10. DEVIATIONS FROM THE REFERENCE TEST
All deviations from the Reference Test Procedure shall be
described explicitly and completely in the test report.
Especially the diameter of the reds ought to be recorded
as it can have a major influence on the test results.
11. EXPLANATORY NOTES AND COMMENTS
• Note 1 . Clause 3.2.1.
The reds and couplings should be made of high tensile
steel. It has to be considered that 25 mm reds may give
higher total resistance than 22 mm rods especially in
cohesive soils.
• Note 2. Clause 4.2.3.
Differences between manually and mechanically performed
tests sometimes occur. Where this may be the case, i.e.
when estimating the relative density of loose
cohesionless soils, camparisens between manually and
mechanically performed tests are recommended . General ly
the measured penetration resistance at rotation is higher
for mechanically than for manually operated
penetrometers.
• Note 3. Clause 4.3.1.
In case where the skin frietian resistance along the
upper parts of the rod can significantly influence the
results, a comparison should be made with a test in a
prebered hole. Preboring is normally required through a
dry crust or through a fill. When the difference in
penetration resistance is !arge between the two tests,
preboring is necessary for all tests within the area. The
preboring shall be made using an auger with a minimum
diameter of 50 mm. To estimate the thickness of the dry
crust, however, the sounding test is performed directly
fr om the ground surface.
• Note 4. Clause 4.3. 2.

A penetration test to "firm bottom" shall be terminated

by striking the rod with a hammer or by dropping s ome of
the weight onto the clamp in order to check that the
refusal is not temporary . If it is possible to penetrate
the stiff layer the test shall be continued.

Sometimes the weight penetrometer test is followed by

percussion boring to deeper levels, e.g. in order to
determine the depth to which point-bearing piles need to
be driven.

• Note 5. Clause 9.1.1.

In soft soils when the penetration resistance is less

than l kN a dynamometer can be used instead of the
weights. In this case the recorded load shall be related
to the closest reference load and shall be recorded in a
similar manner.

27
APPENDICE A

MODE OPERATOIRE DE L'ESSAI DE REFERENCE INTERNATlONALE

POUR L'ESSAI DE PENETRATION AU CONE (CPT)

l. OBJET
2.4.1 Suivant le degre de liberte du cöne on distingue:
L'essai de penetration au cöne consiste å veriner dans le
- les paintes å cöne fixe: ou le cöne ne peut subir que
sol, å une vitesse suffisamment faible, un train de tubes
des micro-deplacements par rapport aux autres elements de
termine å sa partie inferieure par une cöne, et å mesurer,
la pointe.
de maniere continue ou å intervalles de profondeur
- les paintes å cöne mobile: ou le cöne peut se deplacer
determines, la resistance au cöne, et si desire, l'effort
librement par rapport aux autres elements de la pointe.
total d'enfoncement et/ou l'effort de frottement sur un
manchon de frottement. En plus la pression d'eau
2.4.2 Suivant la forme du cöne on distingue:
interstitielle existant å l'interface entre la pointe du
penetrometre et le sol peut etre mesuree pendant la
- le cöne simple: dans lequel la longueur de la partie
penetration au moyen d'un capteur de pression dans le
cylindrique prolongeant la partie conique est notablement
cöne. Cette pression d'eau interstitielle camprend
plus petite que le diametre du cöne.
l'augmentation ou la diminution de la pression d'eau
- le cöne å jupe: dans lequel la partie conique est
intersititelle due å la compression ou a la dilatance du
prolongee par un manchon plus ou moins cylindrique dont le
sol sature situe autour du cöne resultant de la
diametre est plus petit que le diametre du cöne et dont la
penetration du cöne et des tubes de fon~age dans le sol.
longueur est de l å 3 fois le diametre du cöne: ce manchon
est appele la jupe.
On execute les essais de penetration au cöne afin
d'obtenir des donnees relatives å un ou plusieurs des
2.4.3 Piezocöne: un cöne comportant un filtre situe
points suivants:
dans la partie conique ou dans la prolongation cylindrique
(defintion: voir section 3.2) pour mesurer la
l. la stratigraphie des couches du site et leur
pression d'eau interstitielle existant dans le sol pendant
homogeneite.
la penetration au moyen d'un capteur de pression.
2. la profondeur des couches dures; la localisation des
cavites, vides et autres discontinuites.
3. l'identification des sols. 2.5 Manchon de frottement: partie de la pointe
4. les caracteristiques physiques et mecaniques des sols. penetrometrique sur laquelle on mesure le frottement
5. le battage et la capacite portante des pieux. lateral l ocal.

2.6 Systeme de aesure: le systeme camprend les

2. DEFINITION
2.1 "Essai de penetration au cöne" (en abrege CPT,
d'apres l'expression anglaise): ce terme couvre ce qui
etait appele "Essai de penetration statique" ou "Essai de
penetration quasi-statique" ou "Essai de penetration
hollandais".
2.2 Penetrometre: appareil qui consiste en un train de
tubes cylindriques termine par un embout appele pointe du
penetrometre et les dispositifs de mesure pour la
determination de l'effort sur le cöne et une ou plusieurs
des caracteristiques suivantes: l'effort de frottement
lateral local, l'effort total, la pression d'eau
interstitielle existant dans le voisinage immediat du cöne
pendant la penetration.
dispositifs de mesure eux -memes et les mayens de
transmission de !'information depuis la pointe jusqu'å un
endroit ou elle peut etre lue ou enregistree. On peut
definir par exemple:
2.6.1 Les penetrometres electriques qui utilisent un
appareillage electrique tel que jauges de contrainte,
cordes vibrantes, etc .... , inclus dans la pointe.
2.6.2 Les penetrometres mecaniques, qui utilisent un
train de tiges interieures pour transmettre l'effort au
cöne.
2.6.3 Les penetrometres hydrauliques et pneumatiques qui
utilisent des appareillages hydrauliques ou pneumatiques
inclus dans la pointe .

2.3 Pointe: embout d'une longueur de 1000 mm å l'extremite
du train de tubes qui camprend les elements actifs de de ­
termination de l'effort sur le cöne, l'effort de frette­
ment lateral local et la pression d'eau interstitielle
existant å l'interface entre le cöne (definition: voir
seetian 3.2) et le sol pendant la penetration.
2.3.1 FOt: la partie cylindrique de l'embout au-dessus
du cöne et/ou du manchon de frottement.
2 . 4 Cöne: la piece terminale de la pointe penetrometrique
sur laquelle l'effort de pointe est mesure.
2.7 Tubes de fon~age: tubes de forte epaisseur ou tiges,
de preference d'une longueur de l m, utilises pour foncer
la pointe penetrometrique.
2.8 Tiges interieures: tiges pleines eaulissant dans
les tubes de fon~age qui prolongent la pointe d'un
penetrometre mecanique.
2.9 Appareil de fon~age: materiel qui fonce le
penetrometre dans le sol. La reaction necessaire est
obtenue å l'aide d'un poids mortet /ou d'ancrages.

28
2.10 Dispositif de reduction du frotteaent: petite
protuberance leeale sur le tube de fon~age placee au­
dessus de la pointe penetrometrique et destinee å reduire
le frottement sur le tube de fon~age.
2.11 Essais de penetration continue et discontinue
(voir note 1).
2.11.1 Essai de penetration continue: essai de penetration
dans lequel tous les elements de la pointe s'enfoncent å
la meme vitesse durant la mesure de resistance de cöne.
2.11.2 Essai de penetration discontinue: essai de
penetration dans lequel seul le cöne s'enfonce durant la
mesure de la resistance å l'enfoncement, les autres
elements de la pointe restant stationnaires. Quand le
penetrometre comporte un manchon de frottement la mesure
de la somme des resistances de cöne et de manchon est
obtenue par l'enfoncement simultane du cöne et du manchon,
les autres elements de la pointe restant stationnaires .
2 . 12 Resistance au cöne qc: la resistance au cöne
qc est obtenue en divisant l'effort total sur le cöne
Qc par la surface de la base du cöne Ac
A
c
Cette resistance est exprimee en MPa ou en kPa.
3. PENIITROMETRE ET EQUIPEJmNT POUR L' I'SSAI DE
REFERENCE.
3.1 Geometrie generale de la pointe: dans l'essai de
penetration de reference, des paintes avec ou sans manchon
de frottement et avec ou sans capteur de pression d'eau
peuvent etre utilisees. S'il existe un vide entre le cöne
et les autres elements de la pointe il doit etre limite au
minimum necessaire au fonetiennement des organes de mesure
et con~u et realise de maniere å prevenir et empecher
l'entree de particules de sol (voir note 3) . Ceci
s'applique egalement aux vides entre chacune des
extremites du manchon de frottement et les autres elements
de la pointe. La pointe, le manchon de frottement s'il
existe, et le corps de la pointe doivent etre parfaitement
concentriques.
Le diametre du fut de la pointe penetrometrique ne peut
nulle part etre inferieur de plus de 0.3 mm ni superieur
de plus de l mm au diametre nominal de 35.7 mm du cöne de
reference.
De plus dans le cas d'une pointe avec manchon de
frottement, aucune partie de la pointe penetrometrique ne
peut etre saillante par rapport au manchon de frottement.
Un exemple de penetrometre de reference est donne a la
fig. 1(a) et l(b).

2.13 Frottement lateral local unitaire f : le

s
frottement lateral local unitaire f est obtenu en
s
di visant la force totale de frottement Qs qui agit
sur le manchon de frottement par sa surface laterale
A
s

f A fut d e ta
s s
pointe pemitro­
metrique
r
Le frottement lateral local unitaire fs est exprime
en Pa, kPa ou MPa.

2.14 Effort total d'enfoncement Qt: force totale

necessaire pour enfoncer !'ensemble tube-cöne dans le sol .
Qt est exprime en kN .
A, J
( s e roppo r t e o' u n
eot e d e lo s eetia n
tr an sversale )
a·
C>.
o
e T

menehon d e
2.15 Effort total de frottement lateral Qst: il est ( c l frotteme nt
generalement obtenu par difference entre l'effort total
d'enfoncement Qt et l'effort total sur le cöne r~
l ~
~
V
ful de lo
Qc E l ~ -
.--.J:.
~
po1nte pene-

tromf.tnque

ete
joint d' etoneh i
E4 -j( ~ 1ornt d 'eta neherte
g tl \ '1
o a \5 joint anti- joint ont.i_­
~____.._~ pouss iere

:..'.. :i: .

Qst est exprime en kN comme Qt et Qc. L-1) · =:;.e0 ~5 mm

10

vor r detoil' i l l' he ,( mm

Certains penetrometres permettent la mesure directe de flg( c ) 60 he vor r

fr g

Qst con e
, cone

_,.;_de =_3 5,7mm_

2.16 Pourcentage de frottement Rf et indice de . l

( o l ( b l
frottement If (voir note 2).

2.16.1 Pourcentage de frottement Rf: rapport du Fig. 1. ExempLe de penetrometre de reference a cone fixe
frottement lateral local unitaire fs å la resistance (a) avec ou (b) sans manchon de Jrottement. DetaiL
au cöne qc' mesures å la meme profondeur et exprime du vide: (c).
en pour-cents.

2.16.2 Indice de frott~nt If: rapport de la

resistance au cöne qc au frottement lateral local
unitaire f mesures å la meme profondeur.
s

29
3.2 COne: le cOne doit ~tre constitue d'une partie
conique et d'une prolongation cylindrique (fig. 2);
l'angle au sommet du cOne doit ~tre de 60°.
rugosite de surface
~1 ~m
Fig. 2. Tolerances sur les dimensions du c6ne de
reference.
Pour le cOne de reference, la longueur he de la
prolongation cylindrique immediatement au-dessus de la
partie conique ne depassera pas 10 mm. Ceci vaut egalement
pour le piezocöne avec !'element filtrant dans la
prolongation cylindrique (fig. 3).
fil t re
Fig . 3. Piezoc6ne avec un element filtrant dans la
prolongation cylindrique.
La seetian A de la base du cöne doit etre de
2
1000 mm conåuisant å un diametre du cöne de 35.7 mm. Le
diametre du cöne est defini comme etant le diametre de la
prolongation cylindrique.
La rugosite de surface dans le sens longitudinal du cöne
ne depassera pas l ~m. ce qui equivaut å la rugosite
produite par le frottement du sol .
Tolerances sur les dimensions (voir note 4) :
(a) sur la seetian de la base du cöne Ac:
2 dans le sens longitudinal (voir note 5)
A 1000 mm - 5%, + 2%
c
conduisant å un diametre du cöne de
34.8 mm i d i 36.0 mm.
c dessus du cöne (fig . lb). L'espace annulaire entre le
Pour un cöne usage le diametre du cöne doit etre mesure å
la seetian terminale de la prolongation cylindrique.
30
(b) sur la hauteur hc de la partie conique du cöne
24.0 mm i h i 31.2 mm
c
(c) sur la hauteur he de la prolongation cylindrique
7 mm i h i 10 mm.
e
Les cönes presentant une usure asymetrique visible doivent
etre rejetes.
3.3 Vide et joint au-dessus du cöne (fig. 1): le vide
entre le cöne et les autres elements du penetrometre ne
peut depasser 5 mm.
Les limites exterieures du vide doivent avoir une forme
telle que les mesures ne peuvent pas etre affectees par un
pontage eventuel du vide par des particules de sol.
Le joint qui est place dans le vide sera con~u et
fabrique correctement pour prevenir et empecher que des
particules de sol ne penetrent dans la pointe
penetrometrique. Il aura une deformabilite de beaucoup
superieure å celle du dispositif de mesure loge å
l'interieur de la pointe. La seetian transversale du vide
qui subsiste apres deduction de la partie occupee par le
2
joint doit etre inferieure ä 10 mm (fig.l).
3. 4 Dispositif de mesure: le dispositif de mesure de
la resistance au cöne et du frottement doit etre con~u de
maniere telle qu'une excentricite de ces resistances ne
puisse affecter les mesures . Le dispositif de mesure du
frottement local fonctionnera de maniere telle que seules
les contraintes tangentielles et non les contraintes nor­
males agissant sur le manchon de frottement soient mesu­
rees.
3.5 Manchon de frottement (fig. 1b): le diametre du
manchon de frottement ne peut etre inferieur au diametre
de la base du cöne. La surface laterale du manchon de
4 2
frottement doit etre de 1 . 5 x 10 mm •
Tolerances sur les dimensions:
(a) sur le diametre ds du manchon de frottement
d i d i d + 0.35 mm
c s c
ou d est le diametre reel de la base du cöne.
c
(b) sur la surface laterale As du manchon de
frottement
4 2
A = 1 . 5 x 10 mm + 2%, - 2%,
s
c.å.d .
2
mm
(c) sur la rugosite de surface r du manchon de frottement
0.25 ~m i r i 0 . 75 ~m .
Le manchon de frottement doit se situer immediatement au­
manchon de frottement et les autres elements de la pointe
penetrometrique ainsi que les joints doivent satisfaire
aux stipulations de la seetian 3.3 .
3.6 Tubes de fon~age: les tubes de fon~age doivent
etre visses ou fixes les uns aux autres de maniere å etre
solidaires et å former un train de tiges rigidement liees
avec un axe rectiligne et continu. La deviation å mi­
longeur d'un tube de l m par rapport å une droite passant
par les extremites ne peut pas depasser (i) 0.5 mm au cas
des cinq tubes inferieurs et (ii) l mm au cas des autres
tubes.
Pou r n'importe quelle couple de tubes visses ou fixes l'un
å l 'autre l a deviat i on å l'empl acemen t du joint par
rapport å une droite passant par les extr emites ne peut
non plus depasser ces limites.
3. 7 Dispos itifs de aesure: l e s resistances au cöne et sur
le manchon de frottement s'il existe et l a pression d'eau
interstitielle au cas d'un piezocöne doivent etre mesurees
au moyen de dispositifs adequats et les signaux doivent
etre transmis par une methode adequate å un enregistreur
de donnees.
Il n'est pas recommande de n'enregistrer les donnees
d'essai que sur bande qui ne permet pas un acces direct
pendant l'essai.
3.8 Machine de fon~age: la machine doit avoir une course
d'au mains un metre et elle doit foncer les tubes dans le
sol å une vitesse de penetration constante. La machine
doit etre ancree et/ou lestee de maniere å ne pas se
deplacer par rapport au sol lors du fon~age.
3 . 9 Dispositif de reduction du frotteaent: si un
dispositif de reduction du frottement est utilise il doit
etre situe au mains å 1000 mm au-dessus de la base du
cöne.
4• MODE OPERATOrRE
4.1 Essai en continu: le mode operatoire est celui de
l'essai de penetration continue dans lequel les mesures
sant faites alars que tous les elements de la pointe
penetrometrique ont la meme vitesse de penetration .
4.2 Verticalite: Lamachine de fon~age est installee
de fa~on å fournir une direction de fon~age aussi
verticale que possible. La deviation de la direction de
fon~age par rapport å la verticale ne peut depasseer 2%.
L'axe des tubes de fon~age doit caincider avec l'axe de la
poussee.
4.3 Vitesse de penetration: la vitesse de penetration doit
etre de 20 mm/see, avec une tolerance de ~ 5 mm/see. Au
cas du piezocöne la tolerance doit etre diminuee . Dans la
limite de cette tolerance la vitesse de penetration doit
etre maintenue eonstante pendant tout le temps de
l'enfoncement meme si des leetures ne sant faites que par
intervalles.
4.4 Intervalles de lecture: une leeture continue est
recommandee. En aucun cas l'intervalle entre les leetures
ne peut depasser 0.2 m.
4.5 Mesure de la profondeur: les profondeurs doivent
etre mesurees avec une precision d'au mains 0.1 m.
31
5. PRECISION DES MESURES
En prenant en compte toutes les sources d'erreurs
possibles (frottement parasite des dispositifs
d'enregistrement, excentricite de la charge sur le cöne ou
le manchon, differences de temperatures, etc ... ), la
precision de mesure ne peut etre mains bonne que la plus
grande des valeurs suivantes
5% de la valeur mesuree
1% de l a valeur maximum de la resistance mesuree
dans l a couche consideree.
La precision doit etre verifiee au laboratoire ou sur
chantier en considerant toutes les i nfluences
pertubatrices possibles (voire nate 6).
6. PRECAUTIONS, CONTROLES ET VERIFICATIONS.
6.1 Rectitude des tubes de fon~age: la rectitude des tubes
de fon~age et leurs joints doivent etre contröles regul­
ierement, particulierement en ce qui concerne les cinq
tubes inferieurs (voir §3.6 et nate 7).
6.2 Usure: l'usure du cöne, du manchon de frottement
et du fOt de la pointe penetrometrique doit etre contrölee
regulierement.
6.3 Distance å d'autres essais: le CPT ne peut pas etre
execute troppres de trous de forages ou d'autres essais
de penetration existants. Il est recommande que des essais
CPT de reference ne soient pas executes å mains de 25
diametres de forage par rapport å des forages ou å mains
de 2m de CPT executes anterieurement (voir nate 8).
6 . 4 Joints: les joints entre les differents elements de la
pointe penetrometrique doivend etre controles reguliere­
ment pour s'assurer de leur etat. Avant usage les joints
doivent etre verifies quant å la presence de particules de
sol et nettoyes.
6.5 Campensatian de temperature: les paintes
penetrometriques electriques doivent etre equipees de
compensateurs de temperature. Si la deviation constatee
apres extraction de la pointe est telle que la precision
definie å la seetian 5 n'est pas atteinte l'essai doit
etre rejete en tant qu'essai de reference.
7. ETALONNAGE.
7.1 Manometres: l es manometres doivent etre etalonnes
au mains tous les 6 mois. Pour chaque type de manometre on
doit disposer de deux exemplaires identiques, chacun avec
son propre etalonnage. A intervalles reguliers on doit
verifier le manometre utilise pour les essais par
camparaison avec le manometre de reserve.
7 . 2 Pesons/anneaux dynaaoaetriques: les pesons et les
anneaux dynamometriques doivent etre etalonnes au mains
tous les 3 mois. Il est recommande d'effectuer des
contröles reguliers sur chantier avec un appareillage de
contröle approprie.
8. DISPOSITIFS SPECIAUX.
8.1 Guidage des tubes de fon~age: pour eviter le
flambement il doit etre prevu un guidage de la partie des
tubesse trouvant hors-sol ou dans l'eau.
8.2 Incl~tres: afin de suivre les deviations des tubes
de fon~age dans le sol la pointe penetrometrique peut ~tre
equipee d'inclinometres.
La necessite de disposer d'une telle information depend
des sols rencontres et cro1t avec la profondeur d'essai.
8.3 Tubes de fon~age de plus petit diaaetre. Afin de
diminuer le frottement lateral sur les tubes, on peut
utiliser des tubes de fon~age de diametre inferieur å
celui de la pointe. La distance entre les tubes de plus
petit diametre et la base du cöne doit ~tre au moins de
1000 mm.
8.4 Piezocöne: la pointe peut etre equipee d'un dispositif
de mesure de la pression d'eau interstitielle en liaison
avec un filtre place dans la partie conique ou dans la
prolongation cylindrique voir note 9). Le filtre et tous
les canaux du piezocöne doivent ~tre remplis d'eau ou d'un
autre fluide approprie et convenablement desaeres avant
chaque ensemble d'essais. Des preeautians doivent etre
prises pour maintenir la complete saturation du filtre et
des autres espaces du systeme de mesure au cours du tran­
sport vers le site d'essai et au cours de l'execution de
l'essai de penetration au piezocöne, specialement lorsque
les couches superieures ne sent pas saturees.
9. PRESENrATION DES RESULTATS
Les resultats doivent ~tre portes e graphique donnant en
fonction de la profondeur la variaton de qc et
eventuellement fs, Rf (If) et/ou Qt
et/ou Qst et/ou u.
9.1 Les informations suivantes doivent etre consignees
- sur les graphiques des essais:
l. Lorsque le penetrometre et le mode operatoire sent en
tous points conformes au mode operatoire de reference
chaque graphique doit ~tre marque de la lettre R (mode
operatoire de ~eference). Cette lettresera suivie de
l'une des lettres suivantes qui indique lesystemede
mesure:
M mecanique
E electrique
H hydraulique
Les capacites des differents dispositifs de mesure
doivent etre consignees.
2. La date et l'heure de l'essai et le nom de la societe .
3 . Le numera d'indentification du CPT et sa situation sur
le site.
4 . La profondeur å partir de laquelle on a utilise un
dispositif de reduction du frottement, ou des tubes de
diametre reduit. La profondeur å laquelle on a remante les
tubes sur une certaine hauteur afin de reduire le
frottement lateral et de permettre une penetration jusqu'å
plus grande profondeur.
5. Toute interruption anormale dans le deroulement de
l'essai de reference ainsi que toute interruption dans
l'essai au piezocöne.
- sur les diagrammes ou dans le rapport:
32
6. Les observations faites par l'operateur, portant sur le
type de sol, les bruits en provenance du train de tubes,
la presence de pierres, les anomalies, etc . ..
7. Les indications relatives å l'existence et l'epaisseur
de remblais, ou å l'existence et la profondeur
d'excavations et le niveau de depart de l'essai CPT par
rapport å la surface du terrain naturel ou modifie .
8. La cöte de la surface du sol å l'emplaeement de
l'essai.
9. Au cas de l'emploi d'un piezocöne, l'indieation claire
quant å la position, la dimension et le materiau eonstitu­
tif du filtre
10. Les leetures å l'inelinometre au eas ou ees leetures
ont ete faites .
11 . La leeture zero de tous les eapteurs avant et apres
l'essai.
12. Toutes les verifications faites apres extraetion des
tubes de fon~age, l'etat des tubes de fon~age et de la
pointe penetrometrique.
13 . La profondeur de l'eau dans le trou subsistant dans le
sol apres extraetion du penetrometre ou la profondeur å
laquelle le trou s'est eboule .
14 . Si le trou de l'essai a ete rebouehe et, si oui, par
quelle methode.
9.2 Outre les informations reprises å la seetian 9.1 il
doit etre Consigne au dossier :
1 . L'identifieation de la pointe penetrometrique utilisee.
2. Le nom du responsable de l'equipe ayant realise
l'essai .
3 . Les dates et numeros des eertifieats d'etalonnage des
appareils de mesure .
9.3 Pour la representation des resultats de l'essai sous
forme graphique il est reeommande d'utiliser les rapports
suivants entre les echelles de l'axe vertical et de l'axe
horizontal:
Eehelle de profondeur: axe vertieal
1 longueur unitaire (arbitraire) pour 1 m.
Resistanee au eöne qe : axe harizontal
la meme longueur unitaire pour 2 MPa.
Frottement lateral loeal f : axe harizontal
s
la meme longueur unitaire pour 50 kPa .
Effort total d'enfoneement Qt : axe harizontal
la meme longueur unitaire pour 5 kN.
Effort total de frottement Qst axe harizontal
la m~me longueur unitaire pour 5 kN.
Pression de l'eau interstitielle: axe horizontal, la
meme longueur unitaire pour 20 kPa.
 -RESISTANCE DE CDNE EN MP> fROTTEHENT LtJCAL EN HPa POURCENT AGE DE FROT TE MENT EN %
•10 o 20 40 60 0 .0 0 .2 0 .4 o 10
•10 t - - - t - - - - - 1 ·10
--­ PRESSION D ' EAU
INTERSTITIELLE 0 .2 0 .4 0 .6
l O 1 NP~-=10m de cotonne d'e;;au

Q.
<(
z -10 .. l Q
<(

0:
o
Q.
Q.
<(
0:
0:
<(
Q.

~
0: -20 - 20
"
w
o
z
::o
0: '
Q.
''

-30 - 30 +-----'-----' - 30~---~--~

Oim•nsions du f•Lt r a
Pos itio n du f1l trt
H01 tt!n01u du f1L t r•
l e c t ur e d t 2l r
RENAROUES
h01utaur 3Om m . .tpi 1S SI!ur 3. 0mm Oispositd de reduction du frottement non utrtisli!
•m~r.idutement a u-d ess us du cöne ln terrupt io ns anormoales niant
Hler inoxydible Ubserv01tions : nli01nt
prl?cision * Rembl01i / dl!bl.o~i rembl01i 01ncicn,t.m d 'ip;;a rs sc ur
lndinomRtre : pis de mesures
orl c:..:Öc:nc:•_
_ _.,----- f- ' ' - - - -j--:.·::_O._:O_::IO:__:_M::_P_:•-+_.:1.:.0::_0_.:M,::P_.:•:__-J_:S::,:O:,:O:__::,k:_P:._•-j Etat du tubes de fon~aga et de ta pointe plinåtrom~trJqull 01pr8s ess01 i bon
j mö!n(hon de fr ett. - 0.0001 MPa 0 . 7 HPa 7 kPa Niveilu de t' a.,u d.,ns le trou de sondage lrou ilb oulQ pris de l., surfilce
Bouchilgll du trou ne., nt
joalzomi tre - - ­ --L-''c:O:..:.Oc:08 HPa 1 O HP~ kPa * Prl? cision des dispos i tifs de mesure

DfLF T GEOTECHNJCS
HA81TATIONS A HAAS ~LUI'l
fS" } -4 1 DE PENETRitTR 'C !V 4 U (OVE GO. OJfR[I

Comme des valeurs sont uniquement recommandees pour le 10. DIVERGENCES PAR RAPPORT A L'ESSAI DE REFERENCE.
rapport des echelles, la longueur unitaire sur l'axe
vertical peut etre choisie arbitrairement de sorte å ce 10.1 Generalites.
que des feuilles de dimensions standardiseeg puissent etre
utilisees {voir fig. 4}. Toute divergence par rapport å l'essai de reference doit
etre decrite completement et explicitement sur le
diagramme donnant les resultats de l'essai.

9.4 Plan de situation. Les divergences possibles sont:

Pour chaque investigation un plan de situation tres clair 10.2 divergence de la dimension du cöne.
doit etre dresse avec des points de reference clairement
indiques afin que l'emplacement des essais soit defini 10.3 divergence de l'angle au sommet du cöne.
avec precision.
10.4 divergence des dimensions du manchon de
Dans le cas ou la reconnaissance comporte å la fois des frottement.
essais de penetration et des forages, la sequence
d'execution doit etre indiquee. 10.5 divergence de la localisation du manchon de
frottement.

10.6 divergence liee å la forme de la pointe

penetrometrique.

10.7 divergence liee å la possibilite de

mauvements relatifs du cöne par rapport aux
tubes de foncage (pointes dites å cöne
mobile).

33
 ~15mm

tf1

618mm

tl30mm

Fig. 13. Pointe penetrometrique a c6ne a jupe d'URSS.

Fig. 11. Pointe penetrometrique hollandaise a manchon de

frottement.

10.9.2 Tiges interieures.

Le diametre des tiges interieures doit etre de 0.5 å l

mm inferieur au diametre interieur des tubes de foncage.
Les tiges interieures doivent glisser de facon aisee dans
les tubes de foncage.

--.1-+++><lSmm Les extremites des tiges interieures doivent etre

exactement perpendiculaires å l'axe de la tige et usinees
~++o,__c;_13 mm
de sorte å obtenir une surface lisse.

Les tiges interieures ne peuvent etre assemblees ni par

Fig. 12. Pointe penetrometrique a c6ne simple.
vissage ni par tout autre moyen afin de leur laisser un
degre de liberte; il a en effet ete constate que tout
assemblage augmente le frottement parasite entre les
tiges et les tubes. Avant et apres essai il doit etre
contröle que les tiges interieures glissent aisement dans
les tubes de foncage et egalement que le cöne et le
manchon de frottement se deplacent facilement par rapport
au corps de la pointe penetrometrique. Pour augmenter la
precision pour les faibles valeurs de la resistance, les
mesures d'effort enregistrees en surface doivent etre
corrigees du poids cumule des tiges interieures en ce qui
concerne la resistance au cöne et du poids cumule des
tubes de foncage et des tiges interieures en ce qui
concerne l'effort total.

36
10.10 Precision des mesures.
Lorsque l'essai execute diverge par rapport ä l'Essai de
Reference deux classes de precision sant definies:
Precision normale: voir seetian 5.
Precision basse: la precision obtenue ne sera pas
mains bonne que la plus grande des valeurs
suivantes:
10% de la valeur mesuree
2% de la valeur maximum de la resistance mesuree
dans la couche consideree
Dans tous ces cas la classe de precision de l'essai doit
etre indiquee dans le rapport et sur les diagrammes.
10.11 Penetrometres statiques/dynamiques et
penetrometres preforeurs
La penetration peut etre accrue par l'usage de penetro­
metres statiques / dynamiques et egalement par l'usage de
penetrometres equipes d'outils de preforage. L'usage de
tels appareils doit etre indique clairement dans le
r apport et sur les diagrammes.
11. NOTES EXPLICATIVES ET COMMENTAIRES.
• Nate 1: Definitions (2.11)
Le s denaminations "continue" et "discontinue" appliquees
aux essais de penetration ne sant pas tout ä fait
co rrectes. Les termes "avec fonc;:age" sant plus explicites .
Cependant les termes "continue" et "discontunue" ont ete
rnaintenus parce qu'ils sant deja d'un emploi generalise.
• Nates 2: Definitions (2.16)
Le pourcentage de frottement Rf (rapport du
frottement lateral local f å la resistance au cåne
s
qc) doit etre exprime en pour-cents afin d'obtenir un
nombre plus grand que l'unite. Bien que par le passe ce
s oit ce rapport qui ait ete le plus utilise, on peut
egalement utiliser l'indice de frottement If (rapport
de la resistance au cåne qc au frottement lateral
f l t~~1. donne d irectement un nom b re pus
locall'u~ l proximite l'un de l'autre il est recommande, chaque fois
que
1 grand
Il doit etre pris soin de calculer le pourcentage de
frottement et/ ou l'indice de frottement pur des mesures de
resistance au cåne et de frottement lateral local prises å
la meme profondeur. Bien que ceci soit clairement dit dans
la definition donnee en 2.16, l'attention est attiree sur
l e fait qu'en raison de l'ecart en profondeur entre le
cåne et la manchon de frottement, ces pararnetres ne
peuvent pas etre calcules å partir des mesures faites au
meme instant.
• Nate 3: geometrie generale de la pointe penetrometrique
(3.1), du cåne (3.2), du vide et du joint au-dessus du
cåne {3.3) et du manchon de frottement {3 .5) .
Au cours de la penetration des pressions d'eau agissent
en sens oppeses sur les faces terminales du cåne. Lorsque
celles-ci sant de seetians inegales il peut en resulter
une difference dans la resistance au cåne mesuree qui
depend de la valeur de la pression d'eau {Baligh et al
1981). Ceci vaut aussi pour le manchon de frottement. Pour
37
tenir compte de cette influence la geometrie peut etre
definie plus completement, notamment par le rapport des
aires (R.G. Campanella; P.K. Robertson, D. Gillespie
1983)o
• Nate 4: Tolerance sur les dimensions du cåne (3.2) .
Dans les rares cas ou un nouveau cåne est use au-dela
des limites prescrites au cours d'un seul essai, les
resultats de l'essai ne doivent pas etre rejetes.
• Nate 5: Manchon de frottement (3.5.)
La rugosite est definie par l'ecart moyen de la surface
reelle d'un corps par raport au plan moyen. La rugosite
es t exprimee en micrometres (~m).
• Nate 6: Erreurs possibles {5, 10.10).
Ap res execution de l'essai il est parfois nate un non
re tour ä zero. Le total de cette erreur combinee avec les
aut res erreurs possibles ne peut pas depasser les limites
de precision prescrites aux seetians 5 et 10.10.
• Nate 7: Contråles {6.1).
Les tubes de fonc;:age doivent etre controles au mains
apres l'execution d'essais sur une certaine profondeur
cumulee , disans 500 m.
Ils doivent et re contråles apres chaque essai dans
ce rtaines conditions de sol qui sant connues pour conduire
å l a flexion des tubes, par examples:
(a ) de grandes epaisseurs de sols tres mous surmontant
des couches dures.
{b ) des sols residuels contenant des blocs errants.
(c ) des sols contenant de gros graviers et des cailloux.
• Nate 8 : Distance å d'aures essais {6.3.).
Lorsqu'un CPT et un forage doivent etre executes å
que la chose est possible, d'executer le CPT avant
d'execute r le forage. Ceci a de surcroit l'avantage que
l es niveaux ou des echantillons de sol doivent etre
preleves peuvent etre selectionnes en fonction des
conditions de sol.
Commes guide: un essai CPT profond est un essai qui
atteint une profondeur de 10 m ou plus.
• Nate 9: Penetrometre piezocåne {8.4.).
Avec le piezocone la pression d'eau interstitielle
ex istant dans le sol adjacent au cåne est mesuree de fac;:on
continue pendant la penetration. La pression
interstitielle mesuree est la samme de la pression
interstitielle positive ou negative qui s'y rajaute et
qui resulte de la tendance å la compression ou å la
dilatance du sol due a la penetration.
L'experience et l'etat des connaissances relatifs au
piezocone sant eneare assez limites. C'est la raison pour
laquelle il apparait premature de presenter des
recommandations quant å ses particularites. Neanmoins le
sous-comite a decide de donner quelques recommendations
generales quant å la localisation du filtre et quelques
autres aspects importants, de sorte å obtenir une
uniformite raisonnable dans les publications .

En selectionnant la localisation du filtre immediatement

au-dessus de la base du cöne, dans le prolongement
cylindrique he (fig.3), la majorite des applications
dans la pratique a ete suivie. Cependant ceci doit etre
considere comme un projet de recommandation. En raison du
choix de cette localisation la longueur maximum
recommandee pour he est portee å 10 mm. L'influence
de ce changement sur la resistance au cöne est
generalement faible et il est possible d'apporter la
correction correspondante.

Le filtre doit etre constitue d'un materiau resistant å

l'usure. Sa structure doit etre telle qu'il soit tres peu
probable qu'il vienne å etre bloque par des particules de
sol. Le dispositif de mesure des pressions d'eau
interstitielles qui comprend !'element de mesure et son
logement, le filtre et les canaux de liaison doit avoir
une courbe caracteristique tres raide en raison de la
grande incidence sur a) la transmission de la pression
d'eau interstitielle du sol å !'element de mesure et b) le
fait d'empecher la penetration dans le filtre de fines
particules de sol. Il faut attendre les developpements
subsequents .

• Note 10: Pointes penetrometriques å cöne mobile {10 . 7) .

Il n'est pas recommande d'effectuer l'essai de

penetration continue avec un penetrometre mecanique quand
on desire une bonne precision ear le mouvement relatif des
tiges interieures par rapport aux tubes de fon~age peut
changer de sens avec la profondeur, augmentant ainsi la
marge d'erreur due aux frottements internes parasites . En
outre il est necessaire de contröler au moins tous les
metres au cours de la penetration que les tiges
interieures sont toujours libres de se mouvoir par rapport
aux tubes de fon~age .

• Note 11: Essai discontinu (10.7).

Au cas de pointes penetrometriques mecaniques et en vue

d'etre certain que le cöne et le manchon de frottement se
deplacent suffisamment par rapport aux tubes de fon~age il
soir etre tenu compte de fa~on effective du
raccourcissement elastique des tiges interieures. Pour
cela le mouvement des tiges interieures en surface par
rapport aux tubes de fon~age doit etre au moins egal å la
somme du mouvement minimum requis pour le cöne (voir
section 10.9) et du raccourcissement elastique des tiges
interieures.

• Note 12: Cöne simple {10.7 , fig. 12) .

Dans le cas du cöne simple des preeautians doivent etre

prises contre l'entree de sol dans le mecanisme de
glissement et affectant les mesures de resistance. Apres
extraction de la pointe penetrometrique un contröle doit
etre effectue en vue de s'assurer que la tige du cöne est
toujours tout å fait libre de sa mouvoir par rapport å son
guide .

38
APPENDICE B
METHODE D'ESSAIS DE REFERENCE INTERNATlONALE
POUR L'ESSAI DE PENETRATION STANDARD (SPT)
1. PORTEE
1.1 Ce document decrit les principes constitutant des
mathodes d'essai acceptables pour l'essai SPT, dont les
resultats soient comparables.
1.2 L'essai SPT determine, å la base d'un trou de sonde,
la resistance å la penetration d'un carottier tubulaire
en acier, et permet la recuperation d'un echantillon
disloque aux fins d'indentification. On peut alars
etablir la relation entre la resistance å la penetration
et les caracteristiques et la variabilite des sols.
Le principe de base de l'essai consiste ä laisser tomber
d'une hauteur de 760 mm un marteau pesant 63,5 kgf sur un
manchon de battage. Le nombre de coups (N) necessaires
pour atteindre une penetration du carottier de 300 mm
(apres sa penetration sous l'effet de lagravite et en­
dessous d'un enfoncement d'amorcage) est considere comme
la resistance ä la penetration (N).
2. DEFINITION$
2.1 SPT: est l'abreviation de l ' Essai de Penetration
standard decrit dans cette methode d'essai de reference.
2.2 Carottier: ensemble d'acier tubulaire constitue
des elements decrits dans la seetian 3.2
2.3 Tiges de liaison: tiges d'acier reliant le
carottier au manchon de battage.
2.4 Ensemble marteau: les elements du materiel qui
servent å enfoncer le carottier dans le sol et qui
comprennent un manchon de battage, un guide et un
mecananisme degagement.
2 . 5 Manchon de battage: enclume d'acier fixeeau
sammet des tiges de liaison par un filetage. Cette
enclume est une partie interne de certains ensembles
marteaux appeles marteaux de securite. Dans ce cas, le
tige rattachee å l'ensemble est vissee sur les tiges de
liaison.
2.6 Marteau: corps d'acier pesant 63,5 kgf.
2.7 Guide: tige d'acier assurantun guidage uniforme
du marteau pendant toute sa chute libre de 760 mm.
2.8 Mecanisme de degagament: dispositif de
liberation mecanique du marteau assurant sa chute libre
eonstante de 760 mm.
2.9 Enfoncement d'amorcage: le nombre de coups
necessaires pour la penetration initiale du carottier de
150 mm.
39
2.10 Enfoncement d'essai: le nombre de coups
necessaires, apres l'enfoncement d'amorcage, pour une
penetration supplementaire de 300 mm.
3. MATERIEL
3.1 Appareil de forage
3.1.1 L'appareil de forage sera capable d'assurer un
trou net permettant d'effectuer l'essai de penetration
sur un sol essentiellement non perturbe.
3.1.2 En forage å injection, un trepan å evacuation
laterale sera utilise, et non un trepan å evacuation par
le fond . Le procede employant l'injection å travers un
carottier å tube ouvert suivie de l'essai une fois que la
profondeur voulue est atteinte ne sera pas autorise.
3.1 . 3 Si le forage est effectue å la tariere cuiller
avec tubage temporaire, le diametre des outils de forage
ne devra pas etre superieur å 90% du diametre interieur
du tubage.
3.1.4 Le diametre du trou desonde devra etre aussi
petit que possible et campris entre 63 et 150 mm.
3.2 Carottier
Le tube du carottier devra etre en acier trempe, avec des
parais interieure et exterieure lisses. Le diametre
exterieur devra etre de 51 mm ± l mm et le diametre
interieur devra etre de 35 mm :t l mm sur toute la
longueur. Sa longueur devra etre de 457 mm minimum.
L'extremite inferieure du tube devra camporter un sabot
d'attaque d'une longueur de 76 mm! l mm ayant les memes
diamatres interieur et exterieur que le tube . Sur ses 19
mm inferieurs, le sabot aura une forme conique uniforme.
Un bord tranchant devra etre evite, comme illustre å la
Fig. l. Le materiau du sabot sera le meme que celui du
tube.
L'extremite super1eure du tube devra etre munie d'un
accouplement d'acier qui l e raccordera aux tiges de
liaison. A l'interieur de l'accouplement sera prevu un
clapet anti-retour, et ses parois camporteront de grands
orifices devacuation permettant å l'air ou å l'eau de
s'echapper librement lors de l'entree de l'echantillon.
Le clapet devra assurer un joint etanche lors du retrait
du carottier.
Le sabot d'attaque devra etre remplace lorsqu'il sera
endoromage ou deforme, et la carottier devra etre propre
et exempt d'incrustations de sol, tant å l'interieur qu'å
l'exterieur.
Une forme acceptable de carottier est representee å la
Fig. l.
 3.4.3 Dans les situations ou des camparaisens des
resultats d'SPT sant importantes, des etalonnages devront
etre effectues pour evaluer le rendement du materiel en
ce qui concerne le transfert de l'energie. Dans ces
cas-lå, les valeurs de N devront etre ajustees å un
etalon egal å 60% de l'energie cinetique nominale dans un
marteau de 63,5 kgf apres une chute libre de 760 mm, soit
474 Joules. L'energie de reference sera mesuree
immediatement en-dessous du manchon de battage .

Fig. 1. Coupe du carottier de l'essai SPT.

4. METHODE D'ESSAI

4.1 Peeparation du trou de sondage

3.3 Tiges de liaison
4.1.1 Le trou de sondage devra etre soigneusement nettoye
jusgu'å la hauteur de l'essai, å l'aide d'un equipement
3.3.1 Les tiges de liaison en acier, reliant le
qui ne perturbe pas le sol devant subir l'essai . Pour le
carottier au manchon de battage, devront avoir un module
forage dans les sols ne permettant pas å un trou de
de seetian approprie å leur longueur totale et å la
rester stable, un tubage et/ou du fluide de forage å la
contrainte laterale .
bentonite devront etre utilises. Il ne devra pas etre
utilise de tubage å tige creuse pour les essais en­
La seetian pourra avoir les proprietes suivantes:
dessous de l'eau souterraine.
Diametre de Module de Poids de la
4.1.2 Pendant le forage en-dessous de la nappe
tige (mm) section t i ge
(x 10- 6 m3 ) phreatique, la surface de l'eau ou du fluide de forage
(kgf/m)
dans le trou de sondage devra etre constamment maintenue
å une distance suffisanteau-dessus de niveau de l'eau
40,5 4,28 4,33

50 souterraine pour miniroiser la perturbation . Le niveau de

8,59 7,23

60 l'eau ou du fluide de forage dans le trou de sondage

12,95 10,03

devra etre maintenu pendant le retrait des outils de

forage ettout au long de l'essai pour assurer
Il ne devra pas etre utilisees des tiges d'un
poids superieur å 10,03 kgf/m. l'equilibre hydraulique å la hauteur de l'essai.

4.1.3 Les outils de forage, par ex . l'enveloppe , devront

3.3.2 Seules devront etre utilisees des tiges droites,
et des controles periodiques devront etre effectues sur
place . Mesuree sur la longueur totale de chaque tige, la
deviation relative ne devra pas etre superieure å 1/750.
3.3.3 Les tiges devront etre raccordees etroitement par
des joint å vis.
etre retires lentement pour eviter que les effets de
!'aspiration n'ameublissent le sol devant subir l'essai.
4.1 . 4 Si un tubage est utilise, il ne doit pas etre
enfonce en-dessous de niveau auquel doit commencer
l'essai.

4.2 Execution de l'essai

3.4 Ensamble marteau
3.4.1 L'ensemble marteau devra comprendre:
a. Un manchon de battage visse serre au sammet des
tiges de liaison. Ce pourra etre une partie
interieure de l'ensemble, comme dans les marteaux
de securite . L'energie transmise lors de l'impact
devra etre maximisee par une conception
appropriee du manchon de battage .
4.2 . 1 Le carottier devra etre abaisse jusqu'au fond du
trou de sondage sur les tiges de liaison surmontees de
l'ensemble marteau . La penetration initiale sous ce poids
mort total devra etre notee. Si cette penetration depasse
450 mm, l'enfoncement d'essai sera omis et la valeur 'N'
sera consideree comme zero.
Apres la penetration initiale, l'essai sera execute en
deux phases:

b. Un marteau d'acier d'un poids de 63,5 kgf (± 0,5
kgf) o
c. Un guide assurant la chute du marteau avec le
minimum de resistance.
d. Un mecanisme de liberation mecanique assurant une
chute libre eonstante du marteau de 760 mm.
Enfoncement d'amorcage: Le carottier sera enfonce å
une profondeur de penetration de 150 mm dans le sol et le
nombre de coups necessaires pour atteindre cette
penetration sera note. Si la penetraiton de 150 mm ne
peut etre atteinte en 50 coups, la profondeur de
penetration atteinte apres 50 coups sera notee et, dans
ce cas, c'est la profondeur qui sera donc enregistree
comme enfoncement d'amorcage.

Enfoncement d'essai: Le nombre de coups necessaires

3.4.2 Le poids total de la partie de l'ensemble marteau
qui repase sur les tiges de liaison ne devra pas depasser
115 kgf.
pour les 300 mm de penetration suivants est appele
resistance å la penetration (N). Le nombre de coups
necessaires pour atteindre chaque increment de 150 mm de
penetration sera note. L'enfoncement d'essai pourra etre
arrete apres 50 coups dans l'un ou l'autre des increments
de 150 mm ou bien la profondeur de penetration obtenue
sera enregistree si l'essai est arrete å 50 coups .

40
La cadence des coups de marteau ne devra pas etre
excessive au point qu'elle risque d'empecher le marteau
d'atteindre la chute standard ou les conditions
d'equilibre de s'etablir entre les coups successifs . La
cadence maximum typique du battage est de 30 coups par
minute.
15. Observations concernant la stabilite des couches
soumises å essai ou des obstacles rencontres a u
cours des essais etc. qui faciliteront
!'interpretation des resultats d'essai.
16. Resultats des essais d'etalonnage, le cas
echeant (Clause 3.4.3).

4.3 Recuperation de l'echantillon de sol et 6. ANNEXE

etiquetage
Variations par rapport å l'essai de reference.
4.3.1 Le carottier sera remante å la surface et ouvert.
Le ou les echantillons representatifs du sol contenus (i) Le document intitule "Standard Penetration Test
dans le carottier seron places dans des recipients (SPT): International Reference Test Procedure"
hermetiques. (Essai de Penetration Standard (EPS): Methode
d'Essai de Reference Internationale) et presente
4.3.2 Des etiquettes portant les renseignements par le groupe de travail å ISOPT-1, Orlando, USA,
suivants devront etre apposees sur les recipients: les 20-24 mars 1988, identifiait des variations
dans le materiel et les methodes developpees par
a. Site les pays membres de l'ISSMFE.
b. Numero du trou de sondage
c. Numero d'echantillon (ii) Les variations indiquees ci-dessous sont
d. Profondeur de penetration representatives de la situation et des tendances
e. Longueur d'echantillon actuelles.
f. Date de l'essai
g. Resistance standard å la penetration (N) a. Diametre interieur du cylindre du carottier
superieur de 3 mm au diametre interieur standard
de 35 mm du sabot d'attaque (USA).

b. Utilisatian d'un cöne d'acier plein au lieu du

5. RAPPORT DES RESULTATS
sabot d'attaque standard pour les essais dans les
graviers et les roches friables (Royaume-Uni et
Les renseignements suivants devront figurer dans le
Australie).
rapport:
c. Elimination de l'influence des tiges de
l. Site.
liaison par positionnement d'un marteau
2. Date du forage jusqu'å la profondeur d'essai.
immediatement au-dessus du carottier (M E
3. Date et heure de debut et de fin de l'essai.
Schultze (1961): Contributian å la discussion,
4. Numero du trou de sondage.
5eme convention internatianale de l'ISSMFE,
5. Methode de forage et diametre de base du trou de
Paris, Vol III, p. 183.
sondage, presence ou non d'eau ou de fluide
de forage dans le trou.
6. Dimensions et poids des tiges de liaison

utilisees pour les essais de penetration. Le

poids de manchon de battage devra aussi

etre indique.

7. Type demarteau et de mecanisme de liberation.

8. Hauteur de la chute libre.
9. Profondeur au fond du trou de forage (avant

l' essai).

10. Profondeur au fond du tubage.

11. Informations sur le niveau d'eau souterraine
et le niveau d'eau ou de fluide de forage
dans le trou de sondage au debut de chaque essai.
12. Profondeur de penetration initiale et
profondeurs entre lesquelles ont ete mesurees
les resistances å la penetration (enfoncements
d'amorcage et d'essai).
13. Nombre de coups nessaires pour chaque increment
successif de 150 mm de penetration (pour
l'enfoncement d'amorcage et pour l'enfoncement
d'essai); par ex. 12/15/16. La profondeur de
penetration atteinte devra etre indiquee si
l'essai est arrete å 50 coups, par ex.
20/45/50 - 100 mm ou 30/50 - 75 mm.
14. Description des sols identifies d'apres les
echantillons recuperes dans le carottier.

41
 APPENDICE C
PROCEDURES INTERNATIONALES D'ESSAI DE
REFERENCE AU PENETROMETRE DYNAMIQUE (DP)
l. OBJET
L'expression sondage est utilisee pour souligner que
l'essai comporte une mesure continue contrairement, par
exemple, å l'essai S.P.T. Le but de la penetration dyna­
mique est de mesurer l'energie necessaire pour enfoncer
une pointe dans le sol et obtenir ainsi des valeurs de
resistance qui earrespondent aux proprietes du sol.
Quatre proeectures sant acceptees:
Le sondage au penetrometre dynamique leger (DPL}
regroupant le domsine des masses peu elevees des penetro­
metres dynamiques en Utilisatian internationale; la pro­
fondeur de l'investigation normalement ne depasse pas 8
metres environ pour pouvoir obtenir des resultats valab­
les.
Le sondage au penetrometre dyna•lique 110yen (DPM}
regroupant le domsine daes masses moyennes; la profondeur
de l'investigation normalement ne depasse pas 20 å 25
metres environ.
Le sondage au penetrometre dynamique lourd (DPH}
regroupant le domsine des masses moyennes å tres lourdes ;
la profondeur de l'investigation ne depasse normalement
25 metres environ.
Le sondage au penetrometre dynamique tres lourd (DPSH)
regroupant le domaine des masses tres elevees des pene­
trometres dynamiques et analoques å celles du SPT; la
profondeur de l'investigation peut depasser les 25
metres .
2. DEFINITION
2.1 Principes genereaux et nomenciature
Un mouton de masse M et d'une hauteur de chute H est
utilise pour enfoncer une pointe conique . Le mouton
frappe une enclume qui est parfaitement solidaire du
train de tiges. La resistance de penetration est
definie par le nombre de coups necessaire pour un en­
foncement sur une profondeur donnee. L'energie de frappe
est egale au produit de poids du mouton par la hauteur de
chute (M 'g'H). Les resultats des differents types de
penetration dynamique peuvent etre exprimes (et/ou
campares) par des valeurs de resistance dynamique con­
ventionelle qd ou rd {voir nate l, seetian 10) .
L'utilisation principale de la penetration dynamique con­
cerne les sols pulverulents . Dans le cas des sols co­
herents ou d'essais å grande profondeur il faut etre tres
prudent dans !'interpretation des resultats obtenus ear
le frottement lateral parasite peut etre tres important
(voir seetian 7}. La penetration dynamique peut permettre
de detecter des couches molles dans les sols pulverulents
et de localiser des couches resistantes, par exemple dans
des sols pulverulents pour des pieux sollicites en pointe
(DPH, DPSH). En earrelation avec des sandages tests ("key
borings"}, le type du sol et le contenu de cailloux et
42
de blocs ("cobble and boulder") peuvent etre caracterises
d'une maniere acceptable. Les resultats du DPL peuvent
egalement etre utilises pour evaluer la ripabilite et
l'ouvrabilite {"workability"} des sols.
Apres un etalonnage correct les resultats du sondage au
penetrometre dynamique peuvent etre utilises pour obtenir
une indication des caracteristiques utiles pour le genie
civil ("engineering properties"} comme p.e.:
- densite relative
- compressibilite
- resistance au eisailiement
- consistance.
A ce jour, l'interpretration quantitative des resultats,
y campris predietians de la force portante reste limitee
principalement aux sols pulverulents; il faut tenir
compte du fait que le type du sol pulverulent (distribu­
tion de la taille du grain, etc) peut influencer les re­
sultats du sondage .
2.2 Classification
Quatre methodes differentes de sondage, les types DPL,
DPM, DPH, et DPSH, sant acceptees pour s'adapter aux
conditions topographiques et geologiques differentes et
aux divers but de l'investigation.
Appareillage, proeectures de sondage, mesures et en­
registrement sant decrits dans les seetians suivantes.
Des donnees techniques sant resumees en tableau l. D'au­
tres types d'equipement peuvent etre prevus pour des pro­
blemes specifiques ou pour differentes dimensions de
pointe {voir seetian 9}.
3. EQUIPMENT
3.1 Equipement de battage
L'equipement de battage camprend le mouton, l'enclume et
la tige guide. Le tableau l indique les dimensions et
les masses.
Le mouton doit camporter un trou axial dant le diametre
est de 3 å 4 mm plus grand que celui de la tige guide. Le
rapport entre la longueur et la diametre du mouton cy­
lindrique doit etre campris entre l et 2. Le mouton doit
tomber librement et il ne peut camporter aucun element
qui puisse influencer son acceleration et sa decelera­
tion. La vitesse initiale doit etre negligeable quant le
moutonest libere de sa position haute (voir seetian 6).
L'enclume doit etre parfaitement solidaire du train de
tige. Le diametre de l'enclume ne doit pas etre inferieur
å 100 mm ni superieur å la maitie du diametre du mouton.
L'axe de l'enclume, de la tige guide et du train de tiges
doit' etre rectiligne, avec une deviation maximale de 5 mm
par metre.
 Tableau 1. Resultats de sondageau penetrometre dynamique.

Facteurs
Procedure de l' essai de re te rence
DPL DPM DPH DPSH

Masse du mouton en kg 1o
* o. 1 30
* o. 3 50 • o. 5 63 . 5 • o .5
Hauteur de chute en m o. 5
* o. o l O, 5 ±. o. o l o. 5 • o. o l o. 75 • o. 02
Hasse de l' enclume et de 18 18 30
tige guide (max) en kg
Rebond tnaximum en \ 50 50 50 50
Rapport longueur {D) sur •1 , 2 •1 ,2 >1 <2 >1 s2
diam@tre du mouton
Diam!!tre de l'e nclume (d) 1 OOSd:S"Q, 50 100:Sd:S0.50 1 OO:sdsO. 50 1 OO~d:SO. 50

Q. l .D
Lon g ue ur de la tige en m 1
* o. 1
' 1-2 • o. u 1-2 • o. 1 ' 1-2 ± o. 1
'
Hasse maxi male d'une tige

en kg/m

Courbure maximale, tige o. 1 o. 1 o. 1 o. 1 Fig. 1. Schema de pointes et de tiges (le tableau 1

< Sm en \
Courbure maximale tige o. 2 o. 2 o. 2 o. 2 precise les dimensions; D ~ diam~tre de la

> Sm en \ pointe).

Excentricite maximale des o. 2 o. 2 o. 2 o. 2

t.iyes e n

Di amE!tre de
ter ieure
la t i ge 22 • o. 2 32 • o. 3 32 • o. 3 32 • o. 3

Diametre de la tig e in-

t~ r ieure

• o. 2 9 • o. 2 9 • o. 2

Angle au sommet 90 90 90 90
4. PROCEDURE D' I'SSAI
s u r face de la poi nte la 1o 10 15 20
base en cm2
Di arnetre d' une pointe 35.7 ± o. 3 35.7 ± o. 3 43.7 ± o. 3 51 ± o. 5 4.1. Generalite
neuve en mm
Diami!:tre d' une pointe 34 34 42 49
usagee en rrm Les criteres d'arret du sondage doivent etre definies
Longueur cylindrique de 35.7 ± 1 35.7 ± 1 43. 7 ± 1 51 • 2

la pointe en nvn
å l'avance.
Angle de raccordement a 11 11 11 11

la face sup!! r ieure de la

p ointe en degre
La profondeur requise peut dependre des conditions
Longueur de l a partie
n i q ue de la pointe en
17. '::1 • o. 1 17.9 • o.1 21.9 ± o. 1 25.3 ± o. 4 leeales et du but de l'essai particulier.
Us u re maximale de la par­

ti e c o nique de la pointe,

long ueur en rrvn

4.2. Equipement penetrometrique

Nomb~ e ~ de c~ ups p ar 10 cm; N10 1 0cm; N10 10 cm; N1o 20 cm; N20
de pen etratlon L'essai penetrometrique doit etre effectue vertical •~ ut,
Domain e stand ard du 3 - 50 3 - 50 3 - 50 5 - 100
en l'absence de toutes autres specifications. L'equipe­
lnomb re de c oups

50 150 167 238

ment penetrometrique doit etre stable. La pointe et le
train de tiges doivent etre guides au debut de l'essai,
afin de maintenir les tiges verticales. Un avant-trou
peut etre necessaire.

Le di ametre du trou de battage doit etre legerement

3. 2 Train de t iges plus grand que celui de la pointe. L'appareillage d'essai
es t mis en station de telle fa9on qu ' il soit impossible
Le tableau l indique les dimensions et les masses du que le train de tiges puisse flechir au-dessus du sol.
train de tiges. Les tiges doivent etre en acier de haute
res istance au choc, å l'usure et å la fatigue et de
grande solidite å basse temperature. Les deformations 4.3 Battage
permanentes doivent pouvoir etre rectifiees. Les tiges
doivent etre bien droites. Des tiges pleines peuvent etre Le penetrometre doit etre battu en continu dans le sol
utilisees; des tiges creuses sont å preferer afin de ("subsoil"}. La cadence devrait etre comprise entre 15 et
r eduire le poids (voir seetian 6} . Les joints des tiges 30 coups par minute sauf si par sondage ou identification
ne doivent pas presenter d'asperites (voir seetian 6}. acoustique la penetration dans le sable ou gravier est
evidente; dans ce cas la cadence de battage peut etre
augmentee jusqu'å 60 coups par minute. L'experience a
3.3 Pointes montre que la cadence de battage n'a qu'une influence
mineure sur les resultats dans de tels sols.
Le tableau l indique les dimensions des pointes. La
pointe comporte une partie conique ("tip"}, une extension Toute interruption doit etre notee sur la feuille d'es ­
cylindrique et une transition conique d'une longueur sai. Tous les facteurs qui peuvent influencer la resis­
egale au diametre de la pointe entre l'extension cylind­ tance å la penetration (p.e. la raideur du eauplage des
rique et la tige (figure 1}. Les paintes neuves doivent tiges, rigidite du train de tiges} doivent etre controles
avoir une partie conique dont l'angle au sommet est de regulierement. Toutes modifications de la procedure re­
90°.
commandee doivent etre signalees . Les tiges doivent etre
tournees d'un tour et demi tous les metres pour maintenir
Le tableau l indique le maximum d'usure tolere de la le trou droit et vertical, et pour reduire le frottement
pointe. La pointe doit normalement etre attachee å la lateral (voir seetian 7}. Quand la profondeur depasse 10
tige de fa90n qu'elle ne puisse pas etre perdue pendant m, les tiges doivent etre tournees plus souvent, p.e. tous
le battage. On peut utiliser des paintes fixes ou des les 0.2 metres. Il est conseille d'utiliser un dispositif
paintes "perdues" (detachables}. de rotation mecanique quand la profondeur est importante.

43
5. MFSURI'S 8. PRESENTATION DES RESULTATS D'ESSAI

Le nombre des coups doit etre nate tous les 0.1 metre
pour DPL, DPM et DPH (N ) et tous les 0.2 metre pour
10
DPSH (N ) (voir seetian 9) . Les coups peuvent facilement
20
etre mesures en marquant sur les tiges la profondeur de
penetration definie {0.1 ou 0.2 m) . Le domaine normal de
coups - specialement å l'egard de toute interpretation
quantitative des resultats du sondage - se situe entre
N 10 = 3 et 50 pour DPL, DPM et DPS et entre N = 5 et
20
100 pour DPSH . Le rebondissement par coup doit etre
inferieur aux 50% de la penetration par coup . Dans des
cas exceptionnels {en-dehors de ces domaines) quand la
resistance de penetration est faible p.e . dans des
argiles molles ("soft clays"), la profondeur de pene­
tration par coup peut etre enregistree . Dans des sols
dur , ou la resistance de penetration est elevee , la
penetration peut etre notee pour un certain nombre de
coups .
Il est recommande de mesurer le couple necessaire pour
la rotation du train de tiges pour pouvoir estimer le
frottement lateral. Le frottement latera l peut egalemen t
etre mesure å l'ai de d'un manchon eaulissant å l a
proximi te de la pointe .
La mesure de l a profondeur de penetration (partie
conique de la pointe) doit etre effe ctuee å + 2 cm .
Les informations suivantes doivent etre notees:
a) Situation du sondage penetrometrique
Type d'investigation
Date du sondage penetrometrique
Numera du sondage
b) Numera du sondage et situation du sondage et du
trou de forage (en cas de sondage de reference ) . Po­
sition de l'appareillage d'essai par rapport å la
surface du sol. Cote et profondeur du niveau de la
nappe .
c ) Equipement utilise. Type de penetrometre, pointe,
tige , tubage, fluide de forage etc .
d) Masse du mouton, hauteur de chute et nombre de coups
pour chaque penetration definie.
e ) Profondeur å laquelle les tiges sant soumises å une
rotation .
f ) Modifications de la procedure normale, telles que des
interruptions ou des degats sur les tiges .
g) Observations faites par l'operateur tell es que la
nature du sol , des bruits dans le train de tiges ,
presence de pierres , perturbations, etc .
Un exemple de feuille d'essai est donne sur l a figure 2 .

PRQJET: F[Uill[H•:

6. PRECAUTIONS, COWfROLES ET VERIFICATIONS Q,!., JE:

l
$1TUATIO PI:
N" OU SOIIOAGE: OP[RATEUR:

COTES :

Le mouton en chute libre ("free-falling" ) doit e tre monte SURFACE OU SOL: N.I.PPE"OUIFERE: NIVEAUOEREF[RÖKE:

lentement pour eviter que l'inertie du mouton ne le

pousse au-dela de la hauteur definie. Egalement le dispo­
BUTD E L' ESSAI: l TYPE ·

[OUIP H[H T P(NiTROHi:rRE OYIIAHIO.U(;

sitif de prise ("pick-up assembly") doit etre descendu !IGE: TUBAGE.: PQINTE: fLUtOEOEFORAGE:
lentement afin d ' eviter un impact significatif sur le PROFONOEURHI-OESSOUS HAUTEUR PlOMBREDE REHAROUE$.

MOUTON
mouton . OUNIVEAU DE R(FERENCE
., OECHUTE COU?SPOUR
0.2110
DHAI, ROTATION. BRUIT$

MOT IF OEL'ARRÖ.fOR HE OETIGES

Le defaut de rectitude des tiges des premiers 5 m å

partir de la pointe ne doit pas exceder l mm de fleche
sur une regle de l m. Celui des tiges suivantes est
limite å 2 mm sur une regle de l m. La longueur de la
partie conique de la pointe ne peut etre pas diminuee ,
p . e. par usure, de plus de 10% du diametre, de la
longueur theorique de la partie conique de la pointe .

La deviation maximale du dispositif d'essai ("test

rig") est 2% : l (horizontalement) sur 50 (verticalement).

La courbure et l'excentricite sant mesures d'une

maniere satisfaisante en solidarisant une tige avec une
Fig. 2. ExempLe de feuiLLe d'essai pour La penetration
tige rectiligne, et en maintenant cette derniere en
dynamique.
centact avec une surface plane.

7. CARACTERISTIQUES SPECIALES
Afin d'eviter le frottement lateral ("skin friction"), de
la boue de forage peut etre injectee par des trous dans
les parois des tiges å proximite de la pointe. Les trous
doivent etre orientes horizontalement ou legerement vers
le haut. La pression de l'injection doit etre suffisante
pour que la boue de forage remplisse l'espace annulaire
entre sol et tige. De meme, un tubage peut etre utilise .
Au lieu d'un train de tiges creuses (diametre
exterieur 22 mm) du DPL, des tiges pleines (diametre
exterieur = 20) mm sant utilisees.
Les resultats du sondage penetrometrique doivent etre
presentes selon des diagrammes qui donnent les valeurs
N10 ou N20 en abscisses et la profondeuren ordonnees . Un
exemple est presente sur la figure 3 . Quand d'autres
mesures sont faites telle que la penetration pour en
certain nombre de coups, ces valeurs-la doivent etre
transformees en valeurs N , N ou rd' qd avant
10 20
leur representation sur le diagramme . Autrement il peut
etre avantageux de transformer le nombre de coups par
penetration definie en valeurs de resistance rd ou
qd . Les echelles de resistance doivent etre
precisees en abscisses.

44
Si le sondage etait mene selon le RTF, la lettre R doit 10. NOTI'S EXPLICATIVI'S ET COMMENTAIRFS
~tre marquee sur la feuille d'essai, les graphiques etc
suivis de !'abbreviation du type de penetrometre {voir • Note l
figure 3}. Toutes modifications du RTF doit etre decrites
completement sur les feuilles et les graphiques contenant Les equations rd et qd sent:
les resultats de l'essai .

M g H
Ae
N0~1BRE DE COUPS POUR 0,1m
OP L 10 20 M M g H
E COTE OU TERRAIN NATUR EL' 12 ,3 m NAP M + M' A e
0,5
r;s COTE DE LA NAPPE' 10,3 m NAP
er 1, o

i3
1.5 TYPE DE PENETR OMETREo OPL
D ou :
z REFERE NCE OU PRO JET o ZW7
e
D
2.0 DATE OU SONDAGEo 12-03 - BB rd et qd sont les valeurs de resistance en Pa,
er
a.. 2, 5 NU~IE RO OU SONDAGE ' 13 kPa ou MPa
SITUAT lON' XBOURG M est la masse du mouton
M' est la somme des masses du train de tiges, de
l'enclume et de la tige guide
H est la hauteur de chute
Fig. 3 . Exemple de graphique de resultats d ' un sondage e est la penetration moyenne par coup
A est la section de la base de pointe
au penetrometre dynam i que l eger ( DPL ). g est !'acceleration de la pesanteur.

Les valeurs r - et qd sont des resistances

conventionnel~es. En particulier en cas de resistances
elevee~ les diag:amme~ rd et qd doivent etre
analyses avec precaut1on .
9. DEVIATIONS PAR RAPPORT A L' ESSAI DE REFERENCE

Quelques penetrometres legers ont des moutons d ' une masse

de 20 kg (p.e. Bulgarian State Standard 8994-70};
d'autres pays utilisent des paintes d'une surface å la
2
base de 5 cm {p . e . la Belgique, German Standard DIN
4094} . En Australie sent uti lises des penetrometres
legers sans pointe pour des contrOles de qualite des
sables compactes. Quelques penetrometres moyens ont des
moutons d'une masse de 20 kg; des hauteurs de chute de 20
cm sont utilises en d'autres pays (p.e. DIN 4094 de la
RFA, et la Suisse). Est egalement utilisee une hauteur de
chute de 50 cm pour quelques cas particuliers du DPSH
(p.e. la Finlande). En France, outre le DPSH, le DPA du
ISSMFE European Recommended Standard est egalement
utilise comme essai de refe rence (Proc. I Xth, Intern .
Conf. on Soil Mech. and Found . Eng. , Vol. III; p 110,
Tokyo, 1977} ; le diametre et la formede la pointe sont
legerement differents.

Quant au train de tiges du DPSH, il est recommande

d'augmenter son diametre exterieur de 32 å 36 mm (cette
proposition est faite de la part de la France, de
l'Espagne et de la Suede).

Avec DPL, DPM et DPH, les nombres des coups sont

parfois comptes par intervalles de 0.2 m de profondeur de
penetration. Pour le DPSH, on utilise parfois un
intervalle de 0.3 m de profondeur de penetration .

45
6. PRECAUTIONS, CONTROLES ET VERIFICATIONS 9. 3 Presentation des resultats

Un controle regulier de la verticalite des tiges doit La presentation des resultats de l'essai de penetration
etre realise, specialement sur les 5 tiges inferieures, par charges doit etre faite selon la forme montree å la
ref.para. 3 . 2.2 . Fig. 4.

Une inspection reguliere de l'usure de la pointe doit

etre faite, ref . para. 3.3 . 2 .

c route
L'essai de penetration par charges ne doit pas etre
•
effectue å proximite d'autres essais ou forages; de
generale, la distance doit etre ~ 2 m.
fa~on
..
z Preforaga
( tariere ~ 80)

..
~ 3

Q
z
o
7. CALlERATION ~ s
..."'
Les poids doivent etre controles å la livraison et
7
marques.
o 1o 20 40 60
Le dynamometre doit etre calibre au moins une fois tous
Charge kN, dt/0,2 m
les 6 mois ou lorsque des changements et/ou des controles
de routine sont effectues sur l'appareil.
WST 22 !ssai de penetration par charges ,
tiges de 22 mm
dt/0,2 m Noabre de demi-tours pour 20 cm
d'enfoncem.ent
8. SIWATIONS PARTICULIERES croute croute d'argile dessechee
Preforaga Pretorage juaqu'l ce niveau avec une
Dans le but d'eviter que les tiges ne se fracturent par (tariere 11 80) tariere de 80 mm de diametra
flechissement lorsque l'essai est effectue dans l'eau , un Le diagramme de droite indique les charges appliquees
tube de forage doit etre utilise .
Fig. 4. ExempLe de presentation des resuLtats d ' un essai
de penetration par charges (WST ) reaLise avec des
9. RESULTATS
tiges de 22 mm.

9.1 Resistance å la penetration

9.1.1 Lorsque la resistance å la penetration est

inferieure å l kN , la charge normalisee necessaire pour
donner une vitesse de penetration d'environ 50 mm/see
doit etre notee tout au long de l'essai en fonction de l a
profondeur (Fig. 4). On doit noter sur le log du forage
et sur les graphiques si l'on a utilisedes poids ou un
dynamometre (Voir Note 5 para. 11) .
9 . 1.2 Lorsque la resistance å la penetration depass e l
kN, on doit noter le nombre de demi-tours necessaires
pour chaque enfoncement de 0,2 m (Fig. 4) .
9.1. 3 Lorsque le penetrometre doit etre fonce par
battage (å l'aide d'un marteau ou des poids du
penetrometre) on doit noter les profondeurs ainsi
traversees.
9.2 Remarques generales
9 . 2.1 Toutes les observations qui peuvent etre utiles
lors de l'interpretation des resultats doivent etre
notees sur le log du sondage comme, par exemple, le
diametre des tiges ainsi que les bruits et les vibrations
dans les tiges quand la pointe traverse des sols non
coherents (pierres, graviers et sables) . On doit aussi
noter les interruptions dans le deroulement de l'essai,
etc .
9 . 2.2 Le type de materiel de rotation et la vitesse de
rotation doivent etre notes sur le log de sondage .
10. ECART DU MODE OPERATOIRE DE REFERENCE
Tout ecart du Mode Operatoire de Reference de l'Essai de
Penetration doit etre explicitement decrit dans le
rapport d ' essai .
Le diametre des tiges doit etre note puisqu ' il peut avoi r
une influence majeure sur les resultats de l'essai.
11. NOTES EXPLICATIVES
• Note l. paragraphe 3.2.1
Les tiges et les raccords doivent etre fabriques en acier
å haute resistance. Il doit etre considere que des tiges
de 25 mm peuvent donner une resistance totale plus grande
que des tiges de 22 mm, specialement dans les sols
coherents .
• Note 2 . paragraphe 4.2.3
Des differences entre les essais manuels et mecaniques se
produisent parfois . Lorsque de telles differences sont
susceptibles de se produire , comme c'est le cas pour
l'estimation des densites relatives des sols läches sans
cohesion, il faut faire des comparaisons entre des essais
manuels et des essais mecaniques . Generalement, la
resistance de penetration en rotation obtenue lorsque l e
penetrometre est opere mecaniquement est plus grande que
celle provenant de l'essai manuel .

48
• Note 3. paragraphe 4.3.1

Dans le cas ou le frottement lateral le long de la partie

superieure du train de tiges peut influencer les
resultats de facon significative, on doit comparer les
resultats a ceux d'un essai execute dans un preforage. Le
preforage est generalement necessaire dans les croutes
dessechees et dans les remblais. Lorsque la difference de
resistance est grande entre les deux essais, il faut
realiser des preforages pour tous les essais du site. Le
preforage doit etre effectue a l'aide d'une tarriere d'au
moins 50 mm de diametre. Pour estimer l'epaisseur de la
couche durcie, on fait un essai de penetration å partir
de la surface du sol.

• Note 4. paragraphe 4.3.2

On terminera un essai de penetration jusqu'au "substratum

rigide" en frappant sur le train de tiges å l'aide d'un
marteau ou en laissant tomber quelques poids sur le
collier pour verifier que le refus n'est pas temporaire.
S'il est possible de traverser la couche dure, l'essai
doit etre poursuivi.

On fait parfois suivre l'essai de penetration par charges

d'un forage par percussion jusqu'å une plus grande
profondeur, afin de determiner par exemple å quelle
profondeur des pieux doivent etre fonces.

• Note 5. paragraphe 9.1.1

Dans les sols mous, quand la resistance å la penetration

est inferieure å l kN, on peut utiliser un dynamometre å
la place des poids. Dans ce cas, la charge enregistree
doit etre rattachee å la charge normalisee la plus proche
et notee de facon semblable.

49
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