What is site investigation?
Soil is made by nature and often used for foundation in its natural state. Unlike steel or concrete the properties of soil cannot be controlled and must be used as they exist. As a result the engineers are compelled to control the loading conditions. In order to provide loading conditions that will not exceed the carrying capacity or allowable deformation, the extent and properties of soil must be determined prior to the design of the foundation. The information can only be obtained through a properly planned Site Investigation.
PURPOSE OF SITE INVESTIGATIZON
The principle purpose of the site investigation are:
- to determine the sequence, thickness and lateral extent of the soil strata and whenever appropriate the level of bedrock
- to identify the ground Water condition
- to obtain the representative samples of soils/rocks for identification and classification and if necessary for use in laboratory tests to determine the relevant soil properties
- to conduct in-situ tests to assess appropriate soil characteristics
- to explore the source of the construction materials
PLANNING OF SITE INVESTIGATION PROGRAM
No definite rule can be established for a site investigation program and even engineers with considerable experience should not attempt to determine the final program before exploration begins. It should be planned following step by step procedure until the required information sought is obtained. The magnitude and the character of the investigation program depend on the nature of the sub-soil condition and the importance of the project.
Prior to the planning a site investigation program the engineer should be clear about the purpose of the investigation and type of information sought. He should be well informed regarding the preliminary data, which Consists of:
- Size of the structure
- Height
- Depth of basement
- Spacing of Columns and load bearing walls
- Loads to be transmitted by the foundation
STAGE IN SITE INVESTIGATION
The is generally earned out in three stages:
- Preliminary investigation
- Detailed investigation
- Investigation during Construction