INSTRUCTION MANUAL

PRESSUREMETER
Model GAM-II

This product should be installed and operated only by qualified personnel. Its misuse is potentially dangerous. The Company makes no warranty as to the
information furnished in this manual and assumes no liability for damages resulting from the installation or use of this product. The information herein is
subject to change without notification.

Tel. : 1.450.465.1113 • 1.877.ROCTEST (Canada, USA) • 33 (1) 64.06.40.80 (Europe) • www.roctest.com • www.telemac.com

E1001C-10042011
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 GENERAL .................................................................................................. 1
1.1 DEFINITION AND PURPOSE OF TEST ................................................................. 1
1.2 PRINCIPLE OF TEST ...................................................................................... 1
1.3 RESULTS AND THEIR USE .............................................................................. 1
2 TESTING EQUIPMENT ............................................................................... 3
2.1 GENERAL .................................................................................................. 3
2.2 PROBE ...................................................................................................... 3
2.3 CONTROL UNIT ........................................................................................... 5
2.4 COAXIAL TUBING ......................................................................................... 5
3 TEST PROCEDURE .................................................................................... 6
3.1 GENERAL .................................................................................................. 6
3.2 THE PROBE ASSEMBLY AND DISASSEMBLY........................................................ 6
3.2.1 Assembly ..................................................................................................... 6
3.2.2 Disassembly ................................................................................................ 7
3.3 FILLING THE CONTROL UNIT AND SATURATING OF SYSTEM ................................... 9
3.4 CALIBRATIONS ............................................................................................ 9
3.4.1 General ........................................................................................................ 9
3.4.2 Probe inertia calibration ............................................................................ 10
3.4.3 Calibration due to intrinsic volume expansion of Complete system .......... 11
3.5 EXECUTION OF THE PRESSUREMETER TEST .................................................... 11
3.5.1 General ...................................................................................................... 11
3.5.2 Low pressure testing (0-2500 kPa)............................................................ 11
3.5.3 High pressure testing (0-10000 kPa) ......................................................... 11
3.5.4 Measuring cell and guard cell pressure systems ...................................... 12
3.5.5 Differential pressure.................................................................................. 13
4 OPERATIONS ...........................................................................................14
4.1 CHOICE OF GAGES ................................................................................... 14
4.2 FILLING THE PRESSUREMETER ..................................................................... 14
4.3 SATURATION OF TUBING AND PROBE ............................................................. 14
4.4 DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE VALVE ADJUSTMENT ................................................ 15
4.5 CALIBRATION LOW PRESSURE 0-2500 KPA ..................................................... 17
4.6 TESTING ................................................................................................. 18
4.7 CONVERSION TO HIGH PRESSURE (10 000 KPA) .............................................. 18
4.7.1 Pressure gage ............................................................................................ 18
4.7.2 Pressure regulator spring .......................................................................... 19
4.8 CALIBRATION HIGH PRESSURE (0-10000 KPA) ............................................... 19
4.9 TESTING HIGH PRESSURE (0-10000 KPA) ...................................................... 20
4.10 CYCLIC TEST ........................................................................................... 20
4.11 WINTER USE ............................................................................................ 21
4.12 TESTS AT GREAT DEPTHS ........................................................................... 21
5 READINGS AND INTERPRETATION ..........................................................22
6 MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................23
 6.1 FILTER ................................................................................................. 23
6.2 PRESSURE REGULATOR ....................................................................... 23
6.3 DIFFERENTIAL VALVE ................................................................................ 23
6.4 TROUBLE SHOOTING ................................................................................. 24
7 PART LIST AND ILLUSTRATIONS .............................................................25
E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

1 GENERAL
1.1 DEFINITION AND PURPOSE OF TEST
The pressuremeter test is a load test carried out in-situ in a borehole. An inflatable
cylindrical probe is set at testing depth in a pre-drilled borehole within a soil or rock mass
or by direct driving into the mass. The method in depends on the materials’
characteristics.

The Pressuremeter uses a pneumatic/hydraulic control unit to load and monitor the tested
material’s response. The data collected defines the stress-strain relationship of soil and
rock with depth.

The pressuremeter test data is used to determine the limit pressure (10 MPa max) and
pressuremeter modulus (5 GPa) max. The limit pressure is used to calculate the bearing
capacity. The pressuremeter modulus is used to evaluate absolute and differential
settlements for specific foundation designs.

1.2 PRINCIPLE OF TEST

The probe is set at the test depth using the method that will produce the least disturbance
to the test material (Pressuremeter Borings Suggested Drilling Methods). Once in place,
the probe is submitted to equal increments of increasing pressure. The probe volume
changes are recorded 30 and 60 second from the time each pressure stage is reached. The
pressure-volume data is plotted to determine the limit pressure P L and the pressuremeter
deformation modulus E. These values are used for foundation design using the methods
suggested in the appendix “Note D-60-Interpretation and Application of Pressuremeter
Results and the FWHA Manual IP-89-008”.

1.3 RESULTS AND THEIR USE

Figure below shows a typical pressure-volume curve obtained from a pressuremeter test.

Typical pressuremeter test curve

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The curve can be divided into three parts:

i) From P = 0 to P = P0
This portion of the curve corresponds to the probe seating against the borehole
wall. The wall disturbance induced by drilling or driving the probe into place has
considerable influence on this segment of the curve. The difference in borehole
and probe diameters also affects this segment.

ii) From P = P0 to P = Pf
This segment represents the pseudo-elastic behavior of the tested material. The
probe is in contact with the borehole walls. The loading is uniform along the probe
length. This segment is linear and defines E, the deformation modulus of the
tested material. E, in turn is used to evaluate settlement. Should the probe be in
contact with the borehole walls before applying pressure, the mass would exhibit
pseudo-elastic behavior from the outset.

iii) From P = Pf to P = PL
Pf by definition is the pressure at which the mass enters a plastic state. Above P f,
the loaded mass’ deformation accelerates up to the complete failure point. The
pressure that defines failure is the limit pressure PL. This fundamental
mechanical characteristic of the mass is used to evaluate the stability of
foundations in accordance with pressuremeter methods.

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2 TESTING EQUIPMENT
2.1 GENERAL
The pressuremeter apparatus consists of three distinct devices:

- The probe, the loading device, goes inside a borehole at the desired test elevation;
- The control unit, mounts on a tripod at surface, controls the test and displays test
parameters and data. The pressure source, a compressed gas cylinder
- The coaxial tubing delivers pressurized gas and liquid from the control unit to and
from the probe.

2.2 PROBE
The pressuremeter probe is a hollow metal cylinder threaded at both ends and designed to
accept and seal the inner rubber membrane and the outer rubber or metallic sheath. The
outer protective sheath mounts concentrically over the centrally located internal rubber
membrane. The protective sheath extends over the total length of the probe. It is this
sheath that is in direct contact with the borehole walls when the probe is pressurized.
Figure below shows a longitudinal cross section of a pressuremeter probe.

The metallic sheath has longitudinal steel strips fixed to its outer surface. The strips
overlap such that when inflated, the increased surface area of the sheath remains
protected. The metallic sheath is the most frequently used. In certain soils, depending on
the conditions, the pressuremeter tests are run with rubber sheaths.

The central rubber membrane contains the pressurized water and is the probe’s measuring
cell. Its deformation mirror the soil's deformation under load. The loads are applied
using the control unit. The sight tube indicates the volume change of the central
measuring cell. Pressure and volume readings are plotted, as shown in Figure on page 1.
PL and E are the calculated values are applied to the foundation design.

As mentioned above, the inner rubber membrane in which water pressure is applied
occupies the central parts of the probe. In the mathematics behind the interpretation of
the results the assumption is made that the material loaded by the central cell is in a state
of plane deformation. Practically, in order to obtain such a state of deformation it is
necessary to extend the loaded zone on both sides of the central cell. This is accomplished
by allowing gas pressure to be applied to the outer protective sheath which extends over
the total length of the probe. Therefore to transmit load to the material tested the inner
rubber membrane has to be in contact with the outer protective sheath. We then have
three separate chambers under pressure: the central cell under water pressure and the
two guard cells under gas pressure. Figures below schematically show the two pressure
systems of the probe.

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The GAM-II pressuremeter probe is available in three different sizes to fit the standard
borehole diameters. Table below lists the available probes’ diameters and their
corresponding standard drill hole diameters. Table below also shows the acceptable
tolerances on standard borehole sizes within which a satisfactory test can be expected.

DIAMETER OF MANUFACTURED PROBES vs. STANDARD

BOREHOLES
DCMA PROBE BOREHOLE DIAMETER
Standard Diameter (mm)
Hole (mm) Min. Max.

A 44 46 52
B 58 60 66
N 70 74 80

Schematic representation of probe under water and gas

pressure.

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Schematic representation of probe at rest, under gas pressure,

and water pressure

2.3 CONTROL UNIT

The control unit is the operator’s interface with the probe. It is used to regulate and
monitor hydraulic and pneumatic pressures and volumes during the calibrations and the
test. The hardware is housed in a tripod mounted fiberglass case with a front panel. The
controls, gages and valves required to run the test are located on the panel. The water
supplied to central measuring cell is contained in a high-pressure cylinder located in the
control unit. Volume variations during the test are read on a sight-tube. Volume is read
on one of two scales: = -10 to 50 cc (by-pass) or -100 to 800 cc. The control unit has two
operating pressure ranges: 0-2500 kPa for most applications in soils, 0-10000 kPa for
testing very dense soil and rock.

2.4 COAXIAL TUBING

The two tubes connecting the control unit to the probe are arranged coaxially. The tubing
is a reinforced Tecalan sheathed high-pressure tubing (high pressure - working capacity
> 10 MPa). The inner (co-axial) tube delivers the pressurized water to the central
measuring cell. The pressurized gas is delivered in the annulus of the co-axial tubing
assembly to the guard cells. The maximum differential pressure between the water and
gas tubing is 100 kPa for low pressure and 400 kPa for the high-pressure tubing assembly.
The net result is that the tubing expands at a constant and small rate.

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3 TEST PROCEDURE
3.1 GENERAL
The following sections lists the specific instructions for the different stages required to
execute a successful pressuremeter test. They are, in chronological order:

- The probe assembly;

- The filling of the control unit and the saturation of the whole system, including the
probe;
- The calibration test;
- And finally, the test itself.

Note: It is strongly suggested to use a bench vice and the probe to vice
adaptor to hold the probe during the following operations.

3.2 THE PROBE ASSEMBLY AND DISASSEMBLY

The following description refers to the 44mm, 60mm and 70mm probes.

3.2.1 ASSEMBLY

Step 1 The two membrane internal tapered rings (32) are slid over the metal body (28) of
the probe and are left in place at mid-section. The internal face of each ring is in
the shape of a truncated cone and care must be taken so that the thickest
extremity (the base) is oriented towards the center of the probe.

Step 2 Slide the membrane (31) over the body of the probe (28) and under the tapered
rings (32). During this step keep the tapered rings at mid-section and center the
rubber membrane (31) with respect to the beads (30a).

Step 3 Manually move the tapered rings (32) outward until the leading edge of the rings
contacts the beads. Assemble the three shortest puller arms to the ring puller.
The longer arms are used to remove the tapered rings.

Install the ring puller (36) at one extremity of the probe using the proper sized
bushing to center the puller about the probe axis. Rotate the handle (37)
backwards until it is parallel to the probe axis. This will set the tapered ring in
the correct location. Release the puller by rotating the handle (37) forward.
Repeat the operation for the other ring. When mounting the tapered rings verify
that in doing so the rubber membrane is neither stretched beyond its natural
length, nor bunched up between the two tapered rings. Place a layer of black
electrical tape in order to cover most of tapered rings and a section of the rubber
membrane sticking out from the outward edge of these rings. Do not tape over
the opening that delivers the gas from the upper guard cell to the lower guard
cell. Pressurize the measuring cell (100 kPa approx.) and verify for leaks.

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Step 4 Place an o-ring (30b) in each of the two grooves. Spread a thin layer of molycoat
or appropriate rubber grease over the probe core and membrane. Pay particular
attention to coat the tape covering the inner tapered rings. Remove the
temporary tape that covers each metallic sheath extremity. Slide, while rotating
counter and clockwise, the outer protective sheath over the membrane (31) and
the body of the probe. Push the sheath forward holding it at the far end from the
probe. This will favor the opening of the sheath’s leading edge and facilitate the
installation.

Center the sheath with respect to the O-rings (30b). When centered, the sheath
should cover a few of the inside threads at the probe extremities. To ensure
that the two o-rings remained in place, lift each end of the sheath up and
physically inspect the location of each o-ring. Replace the electrical tape at
both extremities of the external sheath with the equivalent of 1 to 1.5 layers of
electrical tape. Apply the lubricant to both outer sheath extremities. Check the
inner membrane seal by inserting a 3X5 connector hooked up to position 10 on
the control unit. Place valve on 6 and increase the pressure to 100 or 200 kPa.
Close valve 10 and listen and look for leaks. The probe should remain inflated.

Slide the tapered retaining rings (Yellow Vulcolan or metallic rings) in place over
the ends of the outer sheath. Orient the tapered rings such that the thickest
extremity points outward. Screw the brass cover nuts (35) on to the body of the
probe. This will advance the outer tapered sleeves inward providing a seal
between the sheath and the o-rings. Continue to advance the brass nuts until
same length of thread is exposed beyond both the nuts. When advancing the
nuts verify that no relative movement between the sheath and probe body
occurs. This can be achieved by holding the outer sheath in position with two
screw clamps temporarily positioned on the outer sheath. Position one of the
clamps near the inner edge of the vulcolan collar. Position the other clamp over
the adjacent inner tapered ring. Tighten securely but do not overtighten to the
point of cutting the inner rubber layers.

3.2.2 DISASSEMBLY

Step 1 Stand the probe up in a 5-gallon pail of water. Clean the probe thoroughly with
a nylon bristle brush. Remove the probe shoe.

Step 2 Screw the probe to vice adaptor onto one extremity of the probe and clamp the
adaptor in a bench vice.

Step 3 Using a strap wrench, unscrew the brass knurled nut (35) at the free end of the
probe.

Step 4 Remove the external tapered ring (34).

Vulcolan collars : Use the ring extractor provided. Place the two pins located on
the inside of the extractor in the appropriate holes on the metal portion of the
collar. Pull and rotate the extractor to remove the vulcolan collar. In difficult
cases warm the metal ring and urethane. Heat until removal is facilitated.
Remove the metal ring and the vulcolan collar in succession. Use a strap
wrench for increased torque.
Metallic ring : Using a strap wrench, pull and rotate the ring. If necessary warm
the ring slightly to facilitate its removal.

Step 5 Reverse the probe and repeat Steps 2, 3 and 4.

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Step 6 Remove the outer sheath (33). If required remove the tape holding the strips at
either extremity (replace with new tape upon reassembly).

Step 7 Remove the O-ring at the free end of the probe (30b).

Step 8 Install the long extension arms and bushing appropriate to the probe size, on
the puller.

Step 9 Place puller on the free extremity of the probe and grasp the membrane ring (32)
with the 3 claws (Ref step 3, figure A). Rotate the puller handle backwards.
This will free the membrane ring (Ref step 3, figure B).

Step 10 Reverse the probe and repeat Steps 7 and 9.

Step 11 Slide the membrane rings towards the center of the probe and remove the
rubber membrane (31).

Step 12 Remove the two membrane rings (32).

Probe assembly and disassembly

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3.3 FILLING THE CONTROL UNIT AND SATURATING OF SYSTEM

The first phase of the operation consists of filling and saturating the control unit and the
central tube of the coaxial tubing. Filling is done at ground level.

When the control unit and central tube saturation are complete, proceed to the second
phase which is the filling and saturation of the probe itself.

The step-by-step procedure related to the two phases of filling and saturation is described
in detail in Section 4.

3.4 CALIBRATIONS

3.4.1 GENERAL

The deformability of the different materials submitted to a pressuremeter test varies over a
wide range. Materials previously tested include soft and stiff soils, glacial till, soft rocks,
ice, frozen ground and boulders.

Two types of calibration tests apply:

- The pressure calibration of the probe performed at ground level, beside the control
unit, unconfined, to establish its own pressure-volume relationship. This is a measure
of the probe inertia.

- The volume calibration of the complete system including the probe, coaxial tubing and
control unit circuitry. The probe is confined by placing it in a steel casing. The
pressure-volume relationship of the system is determined. This calibration is a
measure of the intrinsic volumetric expansion of the components under pressure.

The first calibration applies to low to medium rigidity soils. The second calibration is used
when testing highly rigid soils and soft rock.

In the first case a relatively low pressure (100 to 300 kPa) is necessary to inflate the probe
to its maximum capacity. However, in the second case, high pressures (6000 kPa) are
necessary. The coefficient of the system’s deformation is calculated between 3000 kPa and
6000 kPa. Small volumes of water are injected in the probe (from .07 to .15 cc/100 kPa).
The value depends on the probe diameter and the tubing length; an 80 meter tubing length
with the N probe is between .12 to .15 cc/100 kPa. Should the volume coefficient lie
significantly (>50%) above the specified range, it generally signals a faulty system.

The combined deformation of the coaxial tubing, the control unit circuits and the probe
itself is significant in high-pressure testing relative to the total deformation measured. In
most soil testing, this combined deformation is negligible with respect to the total
deformation.

The significance of the volume coefficient and the repeatability of measurement of the
system expansion increase exponentially with increasing modulus values. Ultimately the
system deformation approaches the tested material’s deformation limiting the instrument
to moduli of 5 GPa (700 000 psi).

Either one or both of the calibration tests described above should be performed when any
one of the following conditions is met:

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- If a membrane and/or protective sheath are replaced. In this case, before proceeding
with the inertia calibration it is advisable to inflate the probe several times.
- If the same membrane and protective sheath have been used for a large number of
tests, the calibration should be checked.
- If the coaxial tubing has to be changed.
- If the ambient temperature at the test location or in the borehole is substantially
different than the temperature that prevailed during the last calibration.

It should be emphasized that calibration tests are important if one wants to arrive at
representative results. It is recommended to calibrate regularly.

3.4.2 PROBE INERTIA CALIBRATION

As mentioned previously the probe inertia calibration is done with the probe at ground
level, beside the control unit and unconfined. The calibration is carried out following the
instructions in Section 4 under low pressure calibration. The probe is inflated in 25 kPa
increments to a volume of approximately 75% of Vo. The pressure-volume relationship is
plotted for the pressure read on the pressure gage. Figure below shows a typical pressure-
volume data plot obtained from an inertia calibration. This curve is subsequently used for
data interpretation.

(kPa) Pneumatic Pressure read on

Pressure Gage

Typical pressure-volume curve from a probe inertia calibration.

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3.4.3 CALIBRATION DUE TO INTRINSIC VOLUME EXPANSION OF COMPLETE

SYSTEM

When a pressuremeter test is performed, the volume variations measured on the control
unit are a combination of the volume changes due to the materials’ deformation, to the
slight deformation undergone by the coaxial tubing, to the expansion of the control unit
circuits and finally, to the compressibility of the rubber membrane and the protective
sheath. In high-pressure testing performed on stiff soils or rock, the former represent a
significant proportion of the total deformation.

A high pressure volume change calibration is necessary, to determine the system’s

intrinsic expansion. The calibration is performed with the probe inside a steel casing. The
instructions are detailed in Section 4 under high-pressure calibration.

3.5 EXECUTION OF THE PRESSUREMETER TEST

3.5.1 GENERAL

The GAM-II pressuremeter has two standard pressure ranges. They are:

- 0-2500 kPa for most applications in soil testing.

- 0-10 000 kPa for very dense soils or soft rock testing.

3.5.2 LOW PRESSURE TESTING (0-2500 KPA)

The limit pressure is first estimated to relate expected limit pressure to a known soil
parameter. Eight to 12 pressure levels are required to adequately define the pressuremeter
curve and parameters for the tested material. To determine the pressure increment size
divide the estimated limit pressure by 10. The pressure is increased incrementally
approaching the pressure from below and maintained for 1 minute. The ramp up period
between intervals is from15 to 30 seconds increasing with the pressure increment size.
The volume readings are recorded 30 and 60 seconds after reaching the pressure level. The
volume scale is in cm3 or .02 cm3 when knob under sight tube is unscrewed and valve 4 is
set at high sensitivity. This knob is located under the water reservoir. One may get access
to this knob after opening front panel. The ‘’high sensitivity’’ position increases the volume
readings’ resolution. This is generally necessary when testing rock at pressures above
3000 kPa.

Once the 60 second reading is recorded, the pressure is increased by one increment and
the sequence repeated. It is preferable, so as not to disturb the differential pressure, not to
decrease pressure once the pressure setting is reached. Instead record the actual pressure
level and the corresponding volume.

The test is stopped when the suggested limiting combination of values for pressure and
volume are reached.

3.5.3 HIGH PRESSURE TESTING (0-10000 KPA)

The high pressure range is required to test from very stiff soil deposits to soft rock. It is
not uncommon for the glacial till or an over consolidated sand to show a limit pressure
“PL” above 5000 kPa. The pressure is increased in 500 kPa increments. Readings are
recorded 30 and 60 seconds after the pressure level is reached or when the readings have
stabilized, whichever comes first.

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3.5.4 MEASURING CELL AND GUARD CELL PRESSURE SYSTEMS

To accurately measure the deformation of the material under test:

1. The central measuring cell rubber membrane must always be in full contact
with the metallic sheath liner.
2. The membrane must not exhibit relative axial deformation with increasing
pressure.

These conditions are met if the pressure in the measuring cell less the cell membrane’s
inertia exceeds the gas pressure in the guard cells by a constant differential pressure.

This differential pressure must remain constant over the total test pressure range.

The pressure applied to the material by the central measuring cell at the probe level is
comprised of:

i. The gas pressure applied to the water reservoir in the control unit and
readout on gages 5, 6 or 17.
ii. The water pressure exerted by the water column between the probe center
and the ground surface elevations.
iii. The pressure decrease due to inertia of the probe. This pressure P i,
determined by the unconfined pressure loss calibration, decreases the net
pressure applied to the test material.

P net applied =P gage 5, 6 or 17 +h - Pi measuring

Where P net applied measuring = the pressure applied to the soil or rock
P gage 5, 6 or 17 = the gas pressure reading at gage 5, 6 or 17 on the
control panel
 = the water density
h = the difference in elevation between the center of the
probe and the center of the control unit.

The gas pressure applied to the guard cells to the tested material above and below the
measuring cell is equal to:

i. The pressure readout on gages 7 or 16.

ii. The pressure decrease due to the inertia of the probe as described above,
assuming that the inertia is the same for the guard and measuring cells.

P net applied guard = P gage 7 or 16 - Pi guard

Where P net applied = the pressure applied to the soil or rock

P gage 7 or 16 = the gas pressure reading at gage 7 or 16 on the
control panel

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3.5.5 DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE

The differential pressure across the measuring cell membrane between the guard cell and
the measuring cell must remain constant. This pressure is set at 100 kPa for low pressure
(0-2500 kPa) for testing in soils and at 400 kPa for high pressure (0-10000 kPa) for test
stiff soils or soft rocks. These values were chosen to ensure that the measuring cell is
always in contact with the inner wall of the metallic sheath. They are a function of the
maximum error between the pressure gages with the same range.

With the probe at 1 meter below ground surface and a total differential pressure required
of 100 kPa, the pneumatic component of the differential pressure is +92 kPa. That is gage
5 must be set to lead gage 7 by 92 kPa. For each meter additional meter of probe depth
the pneumatic component of the differential decrease by 9.8 kilopascals.

At 10 meters depth, the pneumatic differential is 0 and the differential pressure at the
probe level is 100 kPa.

For all depths beyond 10 m, valve 3 is rotated to position > 10 meters.

The above is valid for the high pressure gages, with the exceptions that the differential for
these gages calls for 400 kPa and valve 3 is placed on greater than 10 meters for all depths
below 40 meters.

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4 OPERATIONS

4.1 CHOICE OF GAGES

The control panel is delivered with the following gages :

 On the water circuit : a 0-2500 kPa, 0-6000 kPa, and 0-10000 kPa gage. A lower range
gage, for example 0-600 kPa, can be fitted to quick connector 17 to give more accurate
readings at these lower pressures for soils with weak stress-strain properties.

 On the gas circuit : a 0-2500 kPa, and 0-10000 kPa gage. In the same manner, inlet 16
can be used to add lower pressure range gages.

WARNING : The gages plugged to quick connectors 16 and 17 are active no matter
what the position of valves 14 and 15 are. Take care to close these valves
or remove gages with low pressure ranges whenever necessary.

Once the gages have been chosen, check that they are set to zero, if not use the knurled
buttons or the screws on the gages to do so.

4.2 FILLING THE PRESSUREMETER

Connect the small funnel into inlet 13 on top of the control panel, turn valve 2 to "Water",
then fill the volumeter so that the water level just reaches the colored zone in the sight
tube. Do not let the level go any higher to avoid filling the gas circuit with water. Remove
the funnel and turn valve 2 to "Test". Use clean water or anti-freeze solution to fill the
equipment.

To drain the control panel, connect the filler funnel to outlet 12e. Turn valve 2 to "Water".
The water in the control panel empties out by gravity.

4.3 SATURATION OF TUBING AND PROBE

 Unscrew pressure regulator completely.

 Connect pressure supply.
 Slowly open valve on gas bottle.
 Pressure is indicated on gage 10.
 Thread the rod connector through tubing.
 Connect coaxial tubing (push quick-connects in completely until clicking sound is heard).
 Valve 1 on close to avoid expansion of the guard cell.
 Valve 4 on test.
 Valve 2 on test.
 Valve 3 on 0-10 m.
 Apply 200 kPa on gage 5 by screwing in pressure regulator.
 Water will flow from quick connect into the central tube.
 When water flowing out the end of the central tube contains no air bubbles, hook up the
4 x 4 connector to the probe.

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 When 300 cc of water have been injected in the probe, disconnect the 4 x 4 connector
from probe; water will be expulsed from probe with air bubbles. Repeat this operation
until the water ejected from the probe contains no air bubbles; then reconnect 4 x 4 to
probe.
 In the execution of the latter phase, care should be taken not to let the water in the
reservoir drop below the 800 cc level. Otherwise, gas bubbles will get into water circuit. In
that case, refill the control panel, then saturate tubing and probe again.

The saturation being completed:

 Pressure regulator to off.
 Set valve 2 on ‘’water’’ and ‘’gas’’ for a few seconds, then set it back on test.
 Set valve 4 on closed.
 Connect air line of the coaxial tubing to the probe by screwing 10 mm nut on the
tubing to the probe.
 Refill water reservoir as per section 4.2

4.4 DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE VALVE ADJUSTMENT

For a test at a depth less than 10 meters, for example 5 meters :

1. Disconnect the probe hose from the control panel.

2. Turn valves 1, 2 and 4 on test and valve 3 onto "0-11" m
3. Use main pressure regulator 9 to obtain a reading of 100 kPa on gages 5 and 6.
4. Read the pressure indicated on gage 7.
5. If Pdiff > 50 kPa (for example 70 kPa), go to step 6.
If Pdiff = 50 kPa, the differential pressure is set correctly.
If Pdiff < 50 kPa (for example 30 kPa), go to step 10.
6. Unscrew differential valve 8 slightly (counterclockwise)
7. Increase pressure on gage 6 by 100 kPa.
8. Read the new pressure on gage 7.
9. Go back to step 5.
10.Screw in the differential valve 8 slightly (clockwise).
11.Increase pressure on gage 6 by 100 kPa.
12.Read the pressure on gage 7.
13.Go back to step 5.

At the end of the procedure, unscrew pressure regulator 9. Bleed the pressure in each
circuit with valve 2, and then reconnect the probe tubing onto the control panel. The quick
connectors are designed to prevent any air from entering the tubing.

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

SURFACE DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE VALUES SURFACE DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE VALUES

vs DEPTH vs DEPTH
LOW PRESSURE TESTING – 0-2500 kPa – SOIL HIGH PRESSURE TESTING – 0-10000 kPa–
ROCK
DEPTH OF POSITION OF PRESSURE DEPTH OF POSITION OF PRESSURE
TEST IN VALVE 3 DIFFERENCE(kPa) TEST IN VALVE 3 DIFFERENCE(kPa)
METERS BETWEEN THE METERS BETWEEN THE
GAGES GAGES

1 90 1 390
2 80 2 380
3 70 3 370
4 0-10 m Pressure 60 4 360
on water circuit 0-10 m Pressure on
5 50 5 350
gage is greater water circuit gage is
6 than pressure on 40 6 greater than 340
gas circuit gage. pressure on gas
7 30 7 circuit gage. 330
8 20 8 320
9 10 9 310
10 0 10 300
11 10 11 290
>10m Pressure on 20 20 200
12 gas circuit gage is
20 greater than 100 30 100
pressure on water
25 circuit gage
150 40 0
30 200 50 100
>10m Pressure on
50 60 gas circuit gage is 200
greater than
70 pressure on water
circuit gage

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

For a test at 10 m and less :

1) Disconnect tubing
from the control panel

2) Turn valve 3
to "0-11 m"

3) Set pressure on the water circuit gage at 100 kPa

(400 kPa for high pressure testing)

4) Increase pressure on the water circuit gage

by 100 kPa

5) Read pressure
on gas circuit gage

6) Pressure difference between

Water and gas circuit gages is
equal to the target differential pressure

no yes no

Difference too small : Adjustment finished Difference too great :

Screw differential valve 8 Unscrew differential valve 8

Flow chart for adjusting differential pressure

(test between 1 and 10 meters)

4.5 CALIBRATION LOW PRESSURE 0-2500 KPA

 Place probe at ground level.

 Connect probe tubing.
 Differential pressure must have been adjusted for a test at a depth of 0 meter
 Valve 3 on 0-11 m
 Valves 2 and 4 on test. Valve 1 closed.
 Make sure appropriate manometers are selected (valves 14 & 15).
 With the pressure regulator, apply 25 kPa pressure to the central cell.
 Note volume readings at 30 seconds and 60 seconds after the pressure step is
reached.

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

 Progressively increase the pressure by increments of 25 kPa taking volume readings

at 30 seconds and 60 seconds for each pressure step.
 Stop the injection around 75% of Vo to avoid undue risk of bursting the probe.
 Reduce pressure to zero with regulator.
 Valve 3 set horizontally (on ‘’bleed’’ i.e. > 11m).
 Bleed the pressure in each circuit with valve 2
 Let all water go back in the water reservoir; gas pressure can be used to speed up
the process
 The inertia is the pressure required to inject 100% of Vo and is obtained by
extrapolation of the pressure-volume curve obtained from the calibration.

4.6 TESTING

 Valve 4 on closed.
 Lower probe to the required elevation.
 Adjust the pressure differential.
 Valves 1 and 2 on test.
 Make sure appropriate manometers are selected (valves 14 & 15).
 Valve 3 on 0-11 m or >11 m according to test depth table
 Valve 4 on test.
 Water will flow by gravity from the reservoir into the probe.
 Note the volume reading once the level in sight tube has stabilized.
 With the pressure regulator, adjust the central cell pressure gage to the first pressure
step (one tenth of the expected limit pressure).
 Note volumes reading 30 seconds and 60 seconds after the pressure step has been
reached.
 The pressure is increased by equal increments to the limit pressure (700 cc of
injection). To avoid bursting the probe, it is recommended to stop injection around
75% of Vo.
To depressurize the system:
 Reduce pressure to zero with regulator 9.
 Valve 3 set horizontally (on ‘’bleed’’ i.e. > 11m).
 Valve 2 set slowly on ‘’water’’
 When manometer 7 (or 16) displays about 500 kPa, set valve 1 on closed.
 When all water is back in water reservoir, set valve 4 on close, valve 2 on ‘’gas’’ and
at the same time valve 1 on ‘’test’’
 Inflation of the probe must be done slowly to minimize risks of bursting the sheath

4.7 CONVERSION TO HIGH PRESSURE (10 000 KPA)

To use the pressuremeter above 2500 kPa, the following modifications must be made.

4.7.1 PRESSURE GAGE

 Connect the 0-10 000 kPa pressure gages and set valves 14 and 15 at gage 16 and
17.

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

4.7.2 PRESSURE REGULATOR SPRING

To change the spring of the main regulator 9, proceed as follows:

 Remove chrome cap from control knob.
 Remove circlip with special pliers and remove control knob.
 Unscrew bonnet (1 3/4" flats) and remove load spring.
 Select the silver colored load spring (0-10000 kPa). The olive colored spring has a
range of 0-3500 kPa.
 Insert load spring into bonnet.
 Complete the reassembly.

4.8 CALIBRATION HIGH PRESSURE (0-10000 KPA)

For tests in soft rock, the dilatation of the pressuremeter-tubing-probe system under
pressure is determined by calibrating the system with the probe placed in a rigid steel
casing. The procedure is as follows:
 Fill and saturate pressuremeter and probe.
 Adjust pressure differential to 400 kPa.
 Valve 15 on gage 16.
 Valve 14 on gage 17.
 Put high pressure spring in the pressure regulator.
 Valve 3 on 0-11 m.
 Place probe in steel casing:
44 mm dia. probe - A size casing
60 mm dia. probe - B size casing
70 mm dia. probe - N size casing
 Valve 1, 2 and 4 on test.
 With pressure regulator, apply 500 kPa pressure to the central cell.
 Note the volume reading when the water level in the sight tube has stabilized.
 Increase pressure by 500 kPa increments taking volume readings when the water
level has stabilized.
 When the volume changes become imperceptible, screw knurled knob located
underneath the sight tube and set valve 4 on ‘’ high sensitivity’’.
 In this position, the volume changes are amplified 50 times (i.e. 1 scale unit - .02 cc).
 Continue increasing the pressure to 6000 kPa in 500 kPa increments taking volume
readings at each step.
 When calibration is completed, position set valve 4 on test and unscrew knurled
knob. The factor of correction due to dilatation of the pressuremeter system is a =
dv/dp.

To depressurize the system:

 Reduce pressure to zero with regulator.
 Valve 3 set horizontally (on ‘’bleed’’ i.e. > 11m).
 Bleed the pressure in each circuit with valve 2
 Let all water go back in the water reservoir; gas pressure can be used to speed up
the process

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

4.9 TESTING HIGH PRESSURE (0-10000 KPA)

 Lower the probe to the test elevation.

 Adjust the pressure differential.
 Leave valve 3 in the position used to adjust pressure differential. For high pressure
testing, valve 3 is placed on 0-11 m for test depths to 41 meters. For test depths
greater than 41 meters, valve 3 is placed on >11 m.
 Valves 1 and 2 on test.
 Valves 14, 15 on gage 16 and gage 17.
 Valves 4 on test.
 Water will flow by gravity from the reservoir into the probe.
 Note the volume reading once the level has stabilized.
 With the pressure regulator, adjust the central cell pressure gage to 500 kPa.
 Note the volume reading once the level has stabilized completely.
 Increase the pressure in 500 kPa increments taking volume readings at each
pressure step after stabilization.
 When the volume changes become imperceptible, screw knurled knob located
underneeath the sight tube and set valve 4 on ‘’ high sensitivity’’.
 In this position, the volume changes are amplified 50 times (i.e. 1 scale unit - .02 cc).
 Continue to increase the pressure to 10000 kPa or less depending on borehole size.
To avoid the risk of bursting, maximum volume injected at 10000 kPa should not
exceed 325 cc.
 When the test is completed, position valve 4 on test and unscrew knurled knob
To depressurize the system:
 Reduce pressure to zero with regulator.
 Valve 3 set horizontally (on ‘’bleed’’ i.e. > 11m).
 Valve 2 set slowly on ‘’water’’
 When manometer 7 (or 16) displays about 500 kPa, set valve 1 on closed.
 When all water is back in water reservoir, set valve 4 on close, valve 2 on ‘’gas’’ and at
the same time valve 1 on ‘’test’’
 Prior to moving the probe in the borehole, allow sufficient time for the probe to
deflate completely.

4.10 CYCLIC TEST

A cyclic test loop includes an unloading and a reloading phase. Due to the design of the
apparatus, the unload phase is carried out by adjusting the pressure in the circuit the
least pressurized :
 i.e. the gas circuit when the probe is at a depth between 1 and 10 m (between 1
and 40 m for high pressure tests) - valve 3 being on "0-11 m" ;
 i.e. the water circuit when the probe is below a depth of 10 m (40 m for high
pressure tests) - valve 3 being on "deeper than 11 m".

Consequently, depending on the depth, turn valve 2 slowly onto either "gas" or "water"
while watching either gage 7 - or that fitted into 16 -, or the gages 5 or 6 - or that fitted
into 17 - to realize the first negative pressure increment. The differential valve acts on the
other circuit to maintain differential pressure between the two circuits.

Take volume readings at 30 and 60 seconds.

Repeat the same operation to unload to the next pressure level. Reloading is carried out as
in a standard test.

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

4.11 WINTER USE

During winter, it is necessary to use an antifreeze liquid instead of water. A mixture of 50%
Ethylene glycol - 50% water is recommended. It allows work to -23C. The use of windshield
washer liquid or “Prestone” is not recommended; this may induce deposits that could block
tubing and fittings, and is at the risk of the user.

When the control unit is used at very low temperatures, the Whitey valves with Teflon seal
may leak. To stop the leakage, remove the black handle of the valve with a 3/32" Allen key
and slightly screw the packing bolt with the special two-pin tool provided (tightening tool) in
1/8th turn increments. Usually, the first 1/8th turn will prove sufficient.

4.12 TESTS AT GREAT DEPTHS

The spring in the differential valve has a 500-kPa range approximately. Consequently, for
tests in soil at depths exceeding 60 m, an additional differential valve must be mounted in
series in order to increase range of differential pressure. The additional differential valve is
installed between the main pressure regulator and the differential valve on the control
panel.

The borehole MUST be filled with drilling mud to limit the expansion of the probe before
the test starts.

The tubing and the probe must be perfectly saturated and be filled with specially de-aired
water to prevent air bubbles rising in the tubing. This would alter the value of the
hydrostatic pressure at in the probe.

Regulate the differential pressure before lowering the probe down the borehole, the hose
being disconnected.

Close water circuit valve 4 to prevent any expansion as the probe is lowered down the hole
with the risk of jamming it above the designated test depth. Re-open this valve just before
the start of the test.

Pressure increments must be obtained slowly. The readings at 30 and 60 seconds should
only be taken after the pressure reading on the gage has stabilized.

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

5 READINGS AND INTERPRETATION

The readings are taken manually (ref. Table at the end of this manual). Then the
pressuremeter test curve can be plotted, either manually or using a software.

Reading interpretation can be done referring to the following documents:

 “Interpretation and Application of the Pressuremeter Test Results”, D.60
 “ASTM Standard Test for Pressuremeter Testing in Soils” D4719 –87
 “The Pressuremeter Test for Highway Applications” July 1989

The Vo values to be taken for interpretation are as follows:

44 mm diameter probe - Vo = 535 cc
60 mm diameter probe - Vo = 535 cc
70 mm diameter probe - Vo = 786 cc

The limit pressure PL corresponds theoretically to the pressure required to double the
volume of the initial cavity. The total injected volume is then equal to Vo plus twice the
volume injected in order that the probe contacts the walls of the borehole. This value is
generally obtained by extrapolation.

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

6 MAINTENANCE
6.1 FILTER

Filter in the control panel prevent water and gas circuits from becoming contaminated with
foreign particles. This filter should be cleaned and changed periodically.

6.2 PRESSURE REGULATOR

Please note the the pressure regulator included with the GAM-II is a non-vented model.
This model is equivalent to the one shown at the end of this manual except for items 5, 13,
31, 34 and 34. This type of presseure regulator requires much less efforts than the vented
type in terms of servicing.

6.3 DIFFERENTIAL VALVE

Problem: Unstable differential pressure

Unscrew back of differential valve 8, remove valve 4, and clean off the fine dust that
might have stuck to it, preventing seal 5 to tighten down correctly.
Reassemble the valve.

Differential Pressure Valve

3 seating seal 7 Inlet connector with

filter
4 valve 8 outlet connector*
5 valve seal 13 Valve screw seal
6 spring 14 knob

* the outlet connector is similar to the inlet connector without filter (6 1/8
connector).

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

6.4 TROUBLE SHOOTING

When performing necessary corrective action in the following operations, refer to

procedures described above.

Problem: Differential pressure is not maintained.

1. Make sure that differential pressure valve is clean.

Problem: The regulated pressure continues to increase after lock-up and without
change in control knob position.
Possible cause:
1. Valve seat (22) needs replacement.
2. Sensor assembly needs cleaning and seal replacement.

Problem: Regulated pressure drops off sharply when flow is within regulator
capabilities.
Main valve seat (22) needs replacement.

Problem: Water does not come back to zero after a test.

Possible cause:
The inside of the probe or tubing must be cleaned.

Problem: Water got into the gas circuit.

Bleed thoroughly gas circuit, including differential valve and pressure regulator.

Problem: A valve is leaking

1. Tighten slightly packing.
2. If necessary, replace valve itself.
3. Packing replacement is a delicate operation and requires proper tools

Problem: Broken sight tube

Take-off the polycarbonate protection strip in front of the sight tube 21, unscrew the
2 nuts 36, remove sight tube 21 if faulty and replace it with the spare tube kept in
the control panel container. Re-assemble in the reverse order. Do not over tighten
nuts 36.

Problem: Leaking bleed valve 2

Remove the knob from the valve with a BTR 5/64 spanner and tighten the packing
washer less than 1/8th of a turn with an 8 mm flat spanner.

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

7 PART LIST AND ILLUSTRATIONS

PRESSUREMETER GAM-II – PARTS

ITEM DESCRIPTION

Control Panel

1 Valve for gas

2 Bleed valve for both water and gas circuits
3 4-way valve
4 Valve for water
5 0-2500 kPa pressure gage - central cell
6 0-6000 kPa pressure gage - central cell
7 0-2500 kPa pressure gage - guard cells
8 Differential valve
9 Main pressure regulator
10 0-200000 kPa pressure gage
11 Gas supply connector
12e Water outlet connector
12g Gas outlet connector
13 Volumeter inlet
14 Central cell gage selector valve
15 Guard cell gage selector valve
16 Female quick connector for optional gage on gas circuit

17 Female quick connector for optional gage on water circuit

18 Filter
20 Volumeter
21 Sight tube

High Pressure Coaxial Tubing (HP)

1 Rilsan tubing 5 mm X 3 mm
2 Tecalan tubing
3 Tecalan connector ass’y
4 10 mm Nut
5 10 mm Ferrule HP
6 4 x 3 connector
7 O-ring øi: 0.087” X w: 0.031”(Bunan)

Coupling for Two Tubings

1 Double connector
2 Internal tube

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

Pressure Regulator

Note: To service the pressure regulator, order the consumable

parts repair kit

1 Plug button
2 Circlip
3 Hand knob
4 Bonnet
5 Screw
6 Thrust washer
7 Thrust spring
8 Thrust bearing
9 Thrust washer
10 Adjusting screw
11 Limit screw
12 Spring cap assembly
13 Vent valve rod
14 Load spring
15 Sensor assembly
17 O-ring
18 Connector
19 Main valve assembly
20 Regulator body
21 Retaining seat
22 Main valve seat
23 Back-up ring
24 O-ring
26 Main valve
27 Spring
28 Filter assembly
29 Spring pad
30 Sensor back up
31 Vent valve seat
33 O-ring
34 Vent Valve
35 Spring
36 Sensor

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

Front panel

13 27 7 1 33 32

26

35 30

19
41
20

36 25

25 15

18

27
16
6
2
24

40

34
27
39
5 31

23 30

17
9

37 8

14

28
21
10

25 25

29

38

36 20 19 4 12 12 11 30 39

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

Rear panel

1 11 27 26 25 4 12 17

21
19

11
11

28 20
1
24
5
29
11
12
2

17 19
17
11
20
13 15
30
15 11
15 4
3
2
31 23
11 17
32
19
11
33 11
15
7

6 22
34
42
15 20
35
18
8
36
18
41
20
37 17

38 16
19 9 10 1 11 39 40 15
15 15

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E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

Circuit Schematic Diagram

29
E1001C-10042011 GAM-II

Pressure regulator

30