Dynamic Cone Penetrometer, DCP Hammer

DCP Hammer: What is the Dynamic Cone Penetrometer

The Durham Geo S-20003 Dynamic Cone Penetrometer Hammer is a top quality accessory for the V042.S-205 Dynamic Cone Penetrometer kit. This sleeved drive hammer with dual mass hammer is an industry essential for geotechnical engineers, construction and soil drillers.

Made with precision and durability in mind the Durham Geo S-20003 hammer (purchased separately) will perform and be reliable. Whether you are testing soil compaction, soil density or soil layer strength this dynamic cone penetrometer hammer will exceed your expectations.

The hammer is lightweight and tough, easy to handle and transport. The ergonomic handle is comfortable to grip and reduces fatigue so you can work for hours. The sleeved drive mechanism allows the hammer to penetrate the soil easily and gives accurate and consistent results. The hardened point is for soil penetration and durability, available in multi-use and disposable.

With the Durham Geo S-20003 hammer you can test at various depths with the adjustable sleeve length. This gives you versatility and flexibility to your testing needs. The hammer gives precise measurements so you can collect accurate data for your analysis. The zinc plated components, including the dual mass hammer and drive rod, gives durability and corrosion resistance for longer life and reliable performance of the equipment.

Durham Geo is all about quality and the S-20003 Dynamic Cone Penetrometer Hammer is no exception. It’s made from top quality materials that can withstand heavy duty use. Whether you are in any environment or condition this hammer will perform outstanding.

In summary the Durham Geo S-20003 Dynamic Cone Penetrometer Hammer is an accessory for the V042.S-205 Dynamic Cone Penetrometer kit. Its design, durability and accuracy makes it an industry essential for geotechnical engineers, construction and soil drillers. Get your dynamic cone penetrometer hammer today.

Certified MTP recommends different types and styles of soil penetrometers for soil density tests:

Soil Pocket Penetrometer

Soil Pocket Penetrometer, Chrome-Plated with Engraved Scale

AMS 59032 Pocket Penetrometer

Dial Geotester Pocket Penetrometer Kit

Acme Mortar Penetrometer, Bench-Top

What is a Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP)?

A Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) is a portable field tool to measure soil shear strength and density in situ. This in-situ testing equipment uses a sliding hammer to measure soil penetration resistance and gives valuable data to geotechnical engineers, construction professionals and researchers. The dynamic cone penetrometer is used in various applications such as pavement design, foundation analysis and soil compaction testing making it a versatile tool for soil analysis.

Key Components and Applications

The DCP test set consists of several key components to make it work. It includes standard hammer assembly, heat treated dynamic cone penetrometer point with 1ft adapter rod, 30in “E” drill rod extensions, tee handle and operating instructions. The cone has 1.5in (3.8cm) diameter and 45° vertex angle to penetrate the soil. This setup allows the DCP to establish penetration resistance to standard penetration resistance of virgin soils. The DCP is also used to test weak soils in road construction and in-place soil shear strength, making it an industry essential for various geotechnical applications.

Test Procedure and Results

The DCP works by dropping a 15lb steel mass 20in onto an anvil which drives the embedded cone into the soil. The test involves counting the number of blows to drive the cone 1-3/4in which correlates to N values from Standard Penetration Test (SPT). The procedure starts by hand augering a hand augered hole, seating the cone at the bottom and then striking the anvil with the hammer. The results gives you soil shear strength and density which is used to determine soil bearing capacity and make informed decisions in construction and engineering projects.

The DCP has many benefits, quick and easy to use, gives accurate and reliable results. Portable and compact design makes it perfect for field testing and cost effective for various soil types and conditions. However please note that DCP should not be used as the sole method to determine foundation conditions, it should be used in conjunction with established field and laboratory data. Also DCP may not be suitable for very hard or rocky soils. In such cases the cone may need to be replaced with a plated drive tube samples and assembly to collect tube samples for complete soil analysis.