Dynamic Penetrometer Cone, Complete Kit

DCP: The Ultimate Guide to the Dynamic Cone

The Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) is a fast, portable field tool used to measure soil strength, density, and layer depth in fine-grained soils, pavement bases, sub-bases, and subgrades. It provides reliable data for pavement design and foundation assessment with minimal training.

The DCP Complete Kit uses a 15 lb (6.8 kg) hammer dropped from 20 inches (50.8 cm) to drive a 1.5-inch, 45° heat-treated cone into the soil. Penetration results correlate with SPT N-values and CBR, ensuring accurate soil evaluation.

Designed for pre-augered holes up to 15–20 ft, the lightweight kit is easy to transport and reduces operator fatigue. It includes a sleeved drive hammer, point adapter, four extensions, and instruction sheet, with zinc-plated, durable components and optional disposable or reusable cones.

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 Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) kit includes a drive rod, cone penetrometer, hammer, and anvil, all designed to work together for accurate soil testing. The cone penetrometer is available in reusable or disposable tips, while the heat-treated drive rod ensures strength and durability. The hammer and anvil provide consistent impact for reliable penetration results.

Additional accessories like a carrying case, transport wheels, and replacement parts make the kit portable, easy to maintain, and suitable for quick testing at multiple locations, even in remote areas.

Dynamic Cone Penetrometers

Dynamic Cone Penetrometers (DCPs) are fast, cost-effective tools used by geotechnical engineers to measure in-situ soil shear strength. They are ideal for testing weak soils, granular layers, and subgrades, and are widely used in pavement, foundation, and infrastructure design. DCP results can be correlated with CBR values, helping estimate bearing capacity and monitor soil performance over time across various soil conditions.

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.