Tutorial DCP Test
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Kelvin Casper EdwardTutorial DCP Test
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Kelvin Casper EdwardTutorial: Dynamic Cone Penetration Test
Principle of DCPT
The fundamental concept behind the functioning of this equipment revolves around
measuring the resistance of the pavement layers to the penetration of a standard cone
with a 20 mm diameter (and a 600 apex angle), which is propelled by an 8 kg hammer
falling freely from a height of 575 mm. The penetration depth of the cone, typically
expressed as the average penetration per blow (in mm), is denoted as DCPI60 (mm/blow).
Procedure
1. Note down the initial measurement indicated on the scale of the dynamic cone
penetrometer.
2. Determine the penetration value (in mm) for each impact by subtracting the
previously recorded reading (i.e., the scale reading) from the current reading.
3. Compute the total depth of penetration (in mm) for each impact by summing up
all the preceding individual penetration depths.
4. Create a graph using the data of cumulative penetration depth and the number of
impacts. (Refer to Figure 1)
5. This stage involves recognizing the depth of each layer. Identify variations in the
slope of the penetration curve. Each alteration in slope signifies a change in the
type of layer.
6. Once each slope change is identified, calculate the average penetration per impact
for each slope transition and determine the thickness of each layer.
7. Utilize the following formula to ascertain the corresponding CBR (California
Bearing Ratio) value for each layer.
log10CBR = 2.48 – 1.057 log10(DCPI60)
8. For an understanding of how the CBR value changes with depth, plot a semi-log
graph with CBR values on a logarithmic scale on the horizontal axis (x-axis) and
depth of penetration on a linear scale on the vertical axis (y-axis). (Refer to Figure
2).
Figure 1 Dynamic Cone Penetration Chart
