How to measure in-situ modulus in confined spaces and get immediate repeatable results

Apr 15, 2017 | Compaction Control, Rail Formation & Ballast Condition Assessment

One of the methods for measuring dynamic modulus on site and getting repeatable results immediately is using the Light Weight Deflectometer (LWD). By measuring the modulus value, the Light Weight Deflectometer (LWD) provides the direct link between the design specification (modulus value) and the actual site condition (modulus value).

Getting immediate repeatable results means that on-site decisions can be made straight away. The Light Weight Deflectometer can be used in confined spaces and difficult to access locations, like in trenches, with no support equipment required.

Site characterisation is unarguably the most important, but also most difficult, component of geo-engineering. The ZFG 3000 Light Weight Deflectometer (LWD) with GPS is used for compaction control on sub-grades by measuring the stiffness (modulus) directly in the field, according to ASTM E2835-11 (2015). This equipment is designed to improve the quality of site characterisation and reduce the difficulties involved.

Light Weight Deflectometer ZFG 3000 LWD in Trench Dynamic Modulus

Measuring the level of compaction or bearing capacity of the formation, sub-grade, sub-base and unbound layers and being able to get results immediately to make decisions is very important. The LWD enables you to do this in applications that include road and rail construction, airport runways, taxiways, aprons and parking areas, landfills sites, freight terminals, tank farms, wind farms, temporary pads for mobile crane outriggers or piling rigs, dams, embankments, building and temporary structure foundations, pipe & cable laying, electricity pylons and others.

Our Plate Load equipment is getting a lot of use. We’re very happy with it. 🙂

Mary Flux

Director & Engineering Geologist, WANT Geotechnics

The PANDA probe is giving us and the construction team very useful insight with immediate feedback on the compaction being achieved on a major new rail construction project in QLD. We have two teams working daily using PANDA DCP’s and the Automatic Hammer on the rail formation, enabling real time decision making with confidence, based on the highly repeatable results.

Federico Velasquez

Senior Geotechnical Engineer, CMW GeoSciences

We purchased a PANDA 2 machine after using one from another laboratory. The information obtained has saved money on numerous jobs. It is reasonably priced and the after-market service has been great. Highly recommend using Insitutek.

Brett McDonald

Department of Transport and Main Roads, QLD

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