The US military requires a rapid means of obtaining subsurface soil strength for construction and repair of expeditionary pavement surfaces. Traditionally, the Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) has served this purpose, providing strength with depth profiles in natural and prepared pavement surfaces. To improve upon this device, the ERDC has validated a new battery powered automatic dynamic cone penetrometer (ADCP) apparatus that automates the driving process using a motor-drive hammering cap placed on top of a traditional DCP rod. It improves upon the traditional DCP by applying 3 to 4 blows per second while digitally recording depth, blow count and CBR. An integrated GPS sensor and Bluetooth connection allow for real time data capture and stationing. We illustrate the similarity between the DCP and ADCP by generation of a new ADCP calibration curve relating penetration index to field CBR that nearly follows the DCP calibration with only the exception of an offset. Field testing of the ADCP shows less variability and more consistent strength measurement with depth at a speed 5 times greater than the DCP with minimal physical exertion by the operator.                                                             

Introduction of an Automated Dynamic Cone Penetrometer for Rapid Field Strength Determination

Welcome to the International Airfield and Highway Pavements Conference of the Transportation & Development Institute (T&DI) of ASCE. This international conference will provide an unrivaled chance to interact and exchange information with worldwide leaders in the fields of highway and airport pavements, as well as airport safety technologies.

This conference will bring together designers, project/construction managers, academics, and contractors from around the world to discuss the state-of-the-art implementation, construction, design, in airfield and highway pavements.

Paper Proceedings: https://doi.org/10.1061/9780784483527 | https://doi.org/10.1061/9780784483503 | https://doi.org/10.1061/9780784483510

Conference DOI: https://doi.org/10.26226/m.63284d15cb3e8e0012755dd4