ABSTRACT
The results of a pressuremeter test are a function of the instrument used, the installation procedure, the test procedure and the methods of analysis and interpretation. The installation procedure should produce repeatable, minimum disturbance to the ground regardless of whether a pocket is created for a prebored pressuremeter, or the pressuremeter is drilled or pushed into place. Transducers, membranes and system compliance have to be calibrated at the beginning and end of a project and when there is a major change to the probe. Membrane calibrations are also carried out when a membrane is changed. Tests are designed to measure different parameters including in situ stress, modulus, strength, permeability and creep which are derived from the test curve using theories of cavity expansion. There are several test procedures some of which are set out in national and international standards.
