When shallow or deep foundation systems are being evaluated, the main outcome of the analysis translates into allowable bearing capacity and the associated settlements. These estimates however are affected by uncertainties, which are not always well defined. Therefore, current practice methods resort to higher factor of safety values, resulting in unnecessarily costly solutions.
Using our engineering approach (advanced testing, advanced analytical procedures, and measurement of performance of installed foundations) we are in a process of creating a meaningful smart database. This engineering approach allows us to reduce the amount of uncertainties associated to the design process, resulting in cost–effective foundation solutions.
When compared to standard site investigations, our cost may be more expensive, perhaps double the amount of a typical site investigation. However, our site investigation and analysis will present your foundation project with substantial cost reductions. In most cases, our approach has resulted in at least 20% savings in foundation cost.
Case in point: your bearing stratum has an N value of 50/3”, or worst yet, 50+ bpf.
SPT-based design methods do not provide a specific bearing value. They give you a range of bearing capacities: 400 kPa to 4000 kPa.
Take your pick? No, definitively not. You will be advised to use 400kPa.
In our approach, we measure in-situ strength using pressuremeter testing in hard soils, or dilatometer testing in not–so–hard soils. Either way, our determination of soil strength will give you the accurate bearing capacity.
Gallery
Pile Driving
Some of the inspection and QVE services we offer are related to pile driving procedures. From ultimate pile capacity to as-build offset and out-of-plumb measurements, we provide inspection and certification services.
Pile cluster
Pile cluster and installation of battered piles.
Augered or Drilled Caisson
The installation of augered or drilled caisson often requires a close observation of excavated materials, as well as examination of soil conditions at the bottom of the hole.
Temporary Liner
Installation of a temporary liner using a vibratory hammer.
Augered Caisson Hole
Augered caisson hole exhibiting some wall collapse and inflow of water through a sandy seam.
Rebar Cage
Rebar cage installation into the hole.
Caissons
This cluster of caissons corresponds to one of the abutments for a long-span railway bridge. (CN-Snyder Diamond Grade Separation Project, Toronto. 2006)
Sheetpile Wall
Sheetpile wall installation using a small vibratory hammer.
Installation of temporary shoring using timber lagging and soldier piles with rakers.
We provide inspection services for shoring installation as well as inspection of temporary slopes and excavations.
Tunnelling
Temporary shoring and excavations in support of jack and bore tunnelling operation.
Tunnelling
Jack & bore tunnelling procedures for the installation of small diameter utility line.
Liner and Auger Gear
Typical liner and auger gear for jack & bore tunnelling work.
Large Abutment
Large abutment for a railway bridge, with the foundations for the approach embankment.
MSE Wall
Metal straps holding the concrete panels forming the mechanically stabilized earth retaining wall (MSE wall). Approach embankment to railway bridge.
MSE Wall
Execution of the MSE wall.
Approach embankment and abutment prior to installation of bridge structure.
