1. Plate load tests involve applying increasing loads to circular or square steel plates placed on the ground surface or in a pit to determine the bearing capacity and settlement characteristics of soil.
2. The test setup involves using a hydraulic jack and load cell or proving ring to apply loads to the plate, which is monitored for deflection using dial gauges attached to a frame.
3. The results are used to determine the subgrade modulus of the soil and its ultimate bearing capacity, which is then divided by a factor of safety to determine the safe bearing capacity for foundation design.