ScotGround provides a range of in-situ soil testing and ground monitoring services to support ground investigations, earthwork assessments and geotechnical design across Scotland and the wider UK.
- Dynamic Cone Penrtrometer (DCP)
- Hand Vanes
- Clegg Hammer Testing
- Lightweight Deflectometer Testing
- Soakaway and Percolation Testing
- Peat Probing
- Electrical and Thermal Resistivity Testing
- Gas and Groundwater Monitoring
- Our site-based services can include-other project-specific field assessments, please get in touch to find out how we can benefit your project.
Where appropriate, testing such as DCP, Lightweight Deflectometer and Clegg Hammer testing can also be used to provide indicative California Bearing Ratio (CBR) values to support pavement, access road and temporary work assessments.
Understanding CBR Testing
(California Baring Ratio)
What is a CBR?
A California Bearing Ratio (CBR) value indicates the strength and load-bearing capacity of soil. The value can be measured directly or calculated from the results of several different testing methods. Results are expressed as a percentage, with lower values indicating weaker ground and higher values indicating stronger, more competent material.
Testing Onsite vs Lab Testing
In-situ testing can provide a more representative assessment because the soil is tested in its existing condition, including its natural moisture content, density, compaction and structure. By comparison, samples taken back to the laboratory may be disturbed during excavation, transport and preparation, as a result the sample’s fabric can be broken down and moisture can be lost or redistributed altering the samples condition and affect the result.
Uses of CBRs
CBR testing is commonly used to assess the strength and bearing capacity of subgrade soils and to support the design of roads, access tracks and pavements. The results can help determine the required thickness of sub-base and capping layers, assess the performance of compacted fills and earthworks, and provide useful information for temporary haul roads and working platforms, including crane pads. CBR testing is also widely used for quality control during the construction of roads and other hardstandings, helping confirm that the ground and pavement materials are suitable for their intended use.
How do we ensure high quality testing?
All testing and monitoring is carried out by experienced personnel who understand the importance of accurate measurements, clear records and practical site delivery. Results can be supplied in a straightforward format for use by engineers, consultants and contractors, helping to assess soil strength, compaction, drainage characteristics, ground variability and subsurface conditions. Whether testing is required as part of a larger ground investigation or as a standalone service, ScotGround can provide flexible, reliable support tailored to the needs of the project.