A rapid in situ test device to evaluate the compaction effort of aggregate piers

摘要

A current in situ test exists to evaluate a load-deformation relationship of aggregate piers. However, the test is lengthy, evaluates only non-production aggregate piers, and does not provide a record of compaction. It would be beneficial to evaluate production piers as they are installed. A new in situ device was developed to provide knowledge about the compaction effort of aggregate piers. The device is referred to as the RAM Test. The device evaluates production piers and obtains a compaction record.The report includes a detailed description of the device, the research methods involved to analyze the data, and results of the analyses. Last, the report includes conclusions and recommendations based on the objectives of the research; (1) test the RAM Test device, (2) use the device to observe, and collect load and acceleration data on aggregate piers during installation, (3) establish a relationship between acceleration and permanent deformation, (4) calculate load characteristics, and (5) determine stiffness values.