Testing soil properties is critical to any construction project. In fact, it is one of the most important initial steps to take during the early conceptualization stages of a build up. This is because soil conditions and properties can have significant effects in the basic structure and the future state of the ground surface. Typical soil testing is usually performed in a specialist laboratory, where a series of procedures are undertaken in order to determine the soil's chloride, sulphate, pH, and carbonate levels, its organic limit, clay sedimentation, and other properties. Determining and ascertaining soil density, strength, contamination, and compaction are all vital at the beginning stages of the construction process.
Despite its crucial role in the design and construction process, soil testing is very commonly overlooked, causing much delay, and sometimes, even cancelation of projects because of the unsuitability or the instability of the soil and ground surface at the site. These kinds of situations can very well be rectified if soil testing was done during the initial stages of the project.
Fortunately today, there are different types of soil testing devices that can be used right onsite to ensure immediate measurement and determination of soil quality and suitability. Modern devices like light weight deflectometers are designed for easy, fast, and convenient compaction testing. LWDs allow for dynamic load plate testing by making falling weight deflection testing possible on different testing surfaces, including rather soft subbases and subgrades, where heavy weight devices can't be used. Newer models even feature advanced inclusions like Bluetooth technology for easy data transmission, high-performance rechargeable batteries, a GPS system, in-built printer, and even a USB drive and text input function. Even more advanced models feature PC integration via enhanced software that allow for easier data management, transfer, documentation, reporting, and analysis, for on-the-go testing.
