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In-Situ California Bearing Ratio (CBR)

The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test is a simple and effective method to assess the strength of soil and sub-grade materials on construction sites. This test evaluates the material’s resistance to penetration, providing essential data for pavement and foundation design.

The Process

  1. Testing Procedure
    • A plunger is pressed into the soil at a controlled rate over a standard area.
    • The pressure required to penetrate the soil is measured and recorded.
  2. Comparison with Standard Material
    • The measured pressure is compared to the pressure needed to penetrate a standard crushed rock material under identical conditions.
  3. CBR Value Calculation
    • The result is expressed as a percentage, where higher CBR values indicate stronger and more stable surfaces.

Why Is This Test Important?

  • Design Validation: Ensures the subgrade or base layers meet the load-bearing requirements for roads and pavements.
  • Material Suitability: Determines whether the existing soil is suitable for construction or requires improvement.
  • Project Planning: Helps engineers design layers and thicknesses to optimise pavement performance and longevity.

The CBR test is crucial for assessing ground conditions, ensuring safe and reliable construction practices. Contact us to arrange on-site CBR testing and get precise results for your project.

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AMTEST UK Ltd delivers top-tier services to civil engineering and infrastructure clients across the UK, backed by expert in-house concrete consultants.

Unit A 2D/6, Project Park, North Crescent, London E16 4TQ

Mobile Site Test
Site Test
In-Situ California Bearing Ratio (CBR)

The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test is a simple and effective method to assess the strength of soil and sub-grade materials on construction sites. This test evaluates the material's resistance to penetration, providing essential data for pavement and foundation design.

The Process

  1. Testing Procedure
    • A plunger is pressed into the soil at a controlled rate over a standard area.
    • The pressure required to penetrate the soil is measured and recorded.
  2. Comparison with Standard Material
    • The measured pressure is compared to the pressure needed to penetrate a standard crushed rock material under identical conditions.
  3. CBR Value Calculation
    • The result is expressed as a percentage, where higher CBR values indicate stronger and more stable surfaces.

Why Is This Test Important?

  • Design Validation: Ensures the subgrade or base layers meet the load-bearing requirements for roads and pavements.
  • Material Suitability: Determines whether the existing soil is suitable for construction or requires improvement.
  • Project Planning: Helps engineers design layers and thicknesses to optimise pavement performance and longevity.

The CBR test is crucial for assessing ground conditions, ensuring safe and reliable construction practices. Contact us to arrange on-site CBR testing and get precise results for your project.