Hello!
I am doing a review on Plate load test in global practice. I have started by looking at foundation design practices in general and I have questions when looking at the US code system and its design practices:
1) My understanding is that the main codes used in the US are IBC (general for industrial and civil engineering) and AASHTO (for bridges). Can AASHTO be used when designing foundations for civil buildings?
2) The IBC gives rather general requirements without giving specific methods (e.g. for calculating bearing capacity or settlement). What US documents regulate these methods?
3) What is the place of PLTs in the actual practice of foundation design? Are the bearing capacity values derived from PLTs used or are analytical calculation methods preferred?
4) Are there any sources dedicated to obtaining MC strength parameters from plt results?Thank you for any help you can offer!
PLT was removed from the ASTM standards many years ago. ASTM standards are what most engineers in the US use top guide testing. With exceptions obviously. Requirements are general because flexibility is needed when you do this kind of testing. Place in foundation design? The rule of thumb on depth of influence is about twice the diameter of your plate. Most plates are 300mm in diam so you have a depth of influence is around 600mm. How many foundation systems require shallow area of influence? maybe road/railway design. MC is a failure criterion, as such if you want to derive strength from it one needs to make sure your PLT test yields.
Thank you so much for your reply!
I have completed my work and invite all interested professionals to read my review on this topic:
Article PLATE LOAD TEST. PROSPECTS FOR DEVELOPMENT
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