The pressure-meter test consists of progressively applying a lateral load to the terrain using a radially adjustable cylindrical probe which is introduced into the ground. In this way, a curve is obtained showing soil deformation variations corresponding to the pressure applied.

The following table show the Igeotest pressure-meters / dilatometers:

There are different mechanisms for inserting the probe into the ground and surveys are divided into different types: self-boring (SBP), push-in(PIP) y pre-bored (PBP) pressure-meters.

It is suitable for use both in soft soils - where the device is introduced into the ground by means of static penetration - and hard soils, where a borehole must be made previous to sampling. The sample container has a 35 ml volume, allowing samples of up to 34.8 ml to be taken.

Advantages

• Determining the shear modulus (G), pressure-metric modulus (E) and limit pressure (pl) of the ground.
• Calculation of the load-bearing capacity and settlement of deep and shallow foundations.
• Calculation of negative pile friction.
• Design of laterally-loaded piles.
• Estimation of classical shear parameters