Dynamic Penetrometer Cone, Complete Kit

DCP: The Ultimate Guide to the Dynamic Cone

What is a Dynamic Cone Penetrometer?

Dynamic cone penetrometers (DCPs) are a quick and cost effective way to test fine grained soils, pavement base courses, sub-bases and soil subgrade layers. The dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) is a device that uses a cone shaped steel tip to test the soil, to get fast and accurate soil strength and layer depth for shallow pavement designs and foundation bearing surfaces.

The DCP is a valuable tool for foundation assessment and estimation of shear strength of soils, making it a must have equipment for engineers and geotechnical professionals. The dynamic cone penetrometer is a simple and rugged tool that requires minimal operator training, making it easy to use and operate. The DCP is used to measure the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) values of soils which is an important parameter in pavement design and construction.

Dynamic Penetrometer: The Complete Kit

The Dynamic Cone Penetrometer Complete is a versatile and fast tool to strength and density anywhere. This is the most reliable and portable in situ method. The upper and lower drive assemblies are connected by a hardened steel pin, ensuring proper functioning during dynamic cone penetration tests.The dynamic cone penetrometer uses a 15 lb (6.8kg) drive mass that falls 20 inches (50.8cm) to strike and drive a 1.5 inch (3.8cm) diameter cone with a 45 degree vertex angle. The cone and drive rod are seated in the bottom of a pre-augered hole. The number of blows to drive the cone 1 3/4” is directly correlated to N values from the Standard Penetration Test (SPT) for accurate results. The design of the DCP makes it easier to remove the cone, reducing user fatigue. The challenges of extracting the DCP from hard soils are addressed by the specialized design features, making it more user friendly and efficient.

We have found this dynamic cone penetrometer to work well in pre-augured holes 15 to 20feet (4.6 to 6.1 cm) deep. For sampling purposes the cone can be replaced with a plated drive tube assembly to collect 3” x 10” (7.6 x25.4 cm) samples in pre-augured holes. The DCP is lightweight and can be packed for transport to remote locations, making it very portable. You should also order the appropriate quantity of disposable cone tips to manage efficiently.

The Dynamic Cone Penetrometer Complete includes DCP sleeved drive hammer, point adapter, four extensions and laminated instruction sheet. The cone and other components are high quality, the cone is heat treated and the components are zinc plated. Hardened points are available multi-use or disposable to optimize the process and get reliable and accurate property measurements. The hammer mass is raised until it lightly contacts the top handle before being released for free fall, emphasizing the physical exertion involved in the procedure.

An ASTM reference sheet is included to help you use this product. Instructions and materials such as the K Slump Tester guide and the Steel Concrete Slump Cone and the Mini Slump Cone are also included to walk you through the use and operation of the dynamic cone penetrometer.

In summary the Dynamic Cone Penetrometer Complete is reliable, portable and accurate for testing soil strength and density. It’s consistent results anywhere makes it a must have for geotechnical engineers, construction professionals and researchers.

Components & Accessories

A typical dynamic cone penetrometer kit includes a drive rod, cone penetrometer, hammer and anvil, all of which work together to give you accurate results. The cone penetrometer is the heart of the DCP kit and is available in different types, disposable cone tips and reusable cones.

The drive rod is a critical part of the DCP kit and is heat-treated for added strength and durability. The hammer is another essential part of the DCP kit and provides a consistent and repeatable blow to the anvil which drives the cone. The anvil is a vital part of the DCP kit and provides a stable and consistent surface for the hammer to strike, giving you accurate test results.

The DCP kit also includes accessories such as transport wheels, carrying case and replacement parts making it easy to use and maintain. The kit is portable and easy to use making it perfect for testing in remote areas or areas with difficult access. The DCP kit also makes it fast and easy to extract the instrument from the soil, so you can test multiple locations in a short time.

Dynamic Cone Penetrometers

Dynamic cone penetrometers (DCPs) are a geotechnical engineer’s best tool to quickly and cost effectively measure the shear strength. They are used to measure in-situ strength which is critical for design and construction of pavements, foundations and other infrastructure. DCPs work with all types of weak soils, soft and granular layers. They are used to evaluate foundation conditions across various soil types, including cohesive soils. They are great for monitoring subgrade and granular layers over time to get data for maintenance and improvement of infrastructure.

The data from DCP tests can be used to derive correlations between DCP results and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) values which are essential for estimating bearing capacities. This versatility allows DCPs to test different soil types, so you get accurate responses to both soft and stiff.

Dynamic Cone Penetrometer Equipment

A typical dynamic cone penetrometer kit is designed to be portable and easy to use for field. The kit includes a dynamic cone penetrometer, a vertical scale, a hammer and a set of disposable cones or cone adapters. There are also different types of drive rods for use in various conditions, heavy-duty and light-duty and extension rods. The kit may also come with a carrying case with wheels to make it easy to move to the site.

Best Practices for Dynamic Cone Penetration Testing

To get accurate and reliable results in dynamic cone penetration follow these best practices:

• Use a calibrated DCP instrument and make sure it’s in good condition.

• Choose the right hammer weight and drop height for the soil type and depth.

• Make sure the cone is seated properly in the hammer is struck squarely.

• Record the results accurately and consistently.

• Correlate the results to standard strength values such as the California Bearing Ratio (CBR).

• Researchers have derived connections between DCP results and resilient modulus, so you can estimate soil properties.

• Use extra disposable cones or cone adapters as required.

• Follow safety guidelines.