Static Cone Penetrometer for Soil

Static Cone Penetrometer Test Procedure: A Guide to Soil Analysis

History and Development of Cone Penetration

The cone penetration test (CPT), also known as the static cone penetration test or Dutch cone test, has played a transformative role in geotechnical engineering since its inception in the 1950s at the Dutch Laboratory for Soil Mechanics in Delft, Netherlands. Originally developed to provide a reliable means of learning the engineering properties of soils, the CPT quickly gained recognition for its ability to deliver continuous data on soil conditions directly from the ground surface. This method, which involves using a static cone penetrometer into the soil at a controlled rate, set a new standard for accuracy and efficiency in subsurface investigations.

Over the decades, the CPT has evolved significantly. Early mechanical devices have given way to advanced electronic cones, which can record and transmit detailed test data in real time. Innovations such as the integration of friction sleeves, mantle tubes, and friction jackets have enhanced the measurement of cone resistance, sleeve friction, and friction ratio, allowing for more precise determination of soil parameters like shear strength and low strain shear wave velocity. These improvements have made the static cone penetration test a cornerstone for assessing the suitability of soils for shallow foundations, piles, and other critical structures.

The widespread adoption of the CPT is also due to its standardized test method, which ensures consistency and reliability across different projects and soil types. International standards and guidelines have been developed to govern every aspect of the test, from the apex angle and base diameter to the speed and the reporting of results. This standardization has enabled engineers to confidently interpret test data, develop robust correlations with soil properties, and design safer, more efficient foundations. High-quality material testing equipment is essential to maintaining these standards in the geotechnical and construction industries.

Today, the CPT (and the Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP)) is indispensable for geotechnical engineers seeking to determine soil properties, assess frictional resistance, and evaluate the capacity and settlement of foundations. Its ability to provide high-quality, continuous data at various depths makes it ideal for both routine site investigations and complex construction projects. As technology advances and the demand for reliable ground data grows, the static cone penetration test continues to drive innovation in soil mechanics, ensuring that engineers have the tools they need to design and build with confidence.

Soil Field Testing & Classification Equipment

Static Cone Penetrometer evaluates soil compaction, soil consistency and bearing capacity of foundations and pavement subgrades. Simply press the Penetrometer into the soil 6in (152mm), take a reading from the gauge, then advance another 6in to take the next reading, and continue to desired depth. Fine-grained, soft soils yield the most accurate results, while gravel and rocks in the soil can cause inaccurate readings. In some cases, a sample of the soil may be collected using a split spoon or thin-walled sampler for further laboratory analysis.

Features:

• Inner/Outer rod construction eliminates effects of soil friction

• High-strength chrome alloy and 316 stainless steel construction

• Simple to use

• Uses 60° penetration cones with 1.5cm² or 3.0cm² area

• Pressure gauge of hydraulic load cell reads cone stress directly

Included Items:

• Static Cone Penetrometer

• 0—70kg/cm² gauge

• T-handle

• 2ft (610mm) starter rod

• 24 x 5/8in Stainless Steel Tamping Rod

Accessories:

• HMA-272 3cm2 Cone connects to starter or extension rods when taking penetrometer readings and is required for operation of the Static Cone Penetrometer

• HMA-277 1.5cm2 Cone connects to starter or extension rods when taking penetrometer readings and is required for operation of the Static Cone Penetrometer

• HMA-276A 2ft Starter Rod for Static Cone Penetrometer replacement starter rod used with or without 2ft extensions for deeper penetration

• HMA-271A 2ft Extension Rod can be added to the starter rod for greater depth capability

• Dimensions: Penetrometer: 24 x 8in (610 x 203mm) WxH | Starter Rod: 3.5 x 24in (89 x 610mm) WxH

• Estimated Shipping Weight: 8.0lb (3.63kg)

View full line of Standard Sand and Silica for ASTM Tests Ottawa Test Sand for Cube Molds Graded Sand (Cube Test), ASTM C109, C778, AASHTO T106, 50lb

Browse our selection of Sand Cone Test Equipment from our variety of tools and supplies below.

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