Geotechnical Investigations
The subsurface soils and geology of your site are investigated using geotechnical methods to determine their properties and behavior. This gives us important information to assess, analyze, and study in order to offer comments and suggestions about geotechnical elements of structural and civil engineering design, construction-related problems, and possible risks during construction.
Sufficient amounts of research are necessary for economical design
Inadequate design advice and inherent risk may result from incomplete geotechnical investigation data, which might have an impact on construction time and expense. Based on incomplete knowledge, assuming worst-case scenarios might result in expensive over-engineered designs. In addition to solid soil and rock mechanics concepts, our evaluation, interpretation, and suggestions are grounded in the extensive local expertise that our engineering staff and leadership have amassed over many years. For knowledgeable counsel and affordable, site-specific solutions, get in touch with Ground Consultants.
Evaluation of Groundwater for Basement Design
Substantial subterranean constructions such as multi-level basements may experience seepage or groundwater. Groundwater may pose major issues both during and after construction if it is not properly managed and regulated. Groundwater uplift pressure is one of the main risks associated with a high water table, as it can erode basement floor slabs. Planning and installing monitoring wells and piezometers that offer vital data on pore water pressure, subsurface permeability, permanent groundwater levels, and groundwater seepage inflow rates are something we can do if necessary.
Lot / Site Classification
When developing a home or other significant asset, you need to be sure that your structural engineer or builder has the proper information for foundation design. According to this categorization of the site is based on the anticipated movement of the foundation soils and is connected to the soil’s ability to shrink or swell.
In many cases, a precise site classification may lead to an effective foundation design, which can save construction costs compared to generic standard designs that might not be tailored to the geological characteristics unique to your site. A thorough site assessment can also reveal any issues that should be taken into consideration for your foundation design and construction specs.
Slope Stability Assessment
In order to evaluate the danger of a possible failure or landslide, stabilization work can be necessary before a planned development or civil works continue. We also often offer guidance on the best design and construction techniques for the development of sloping terrain, as well as helpful advise on how to mitigate any possible instability and manage current risks. Ground Consultants has a great deal of expertise with municipal standards when operating in the Southern Area.
We have classified the Assessed Risk Level (ARL 1 to ARL 5) in compliance with the RMS Guide to Slope Risk Analysis Version 4 by conducting stability assessments on a significant number of slopes. In addition to creating an inventory for additional research, stabilization efforts, monitoring, or asset maintenance, this enables the RMS to prioritize any necessary remedies.
Geological Mapping
Engineering or Geotechnical? A properly qualified geotechnical engineer or engineering geologist does geological mapping based on a walkover examination of the site and a study of the material that is currently accessible, including topographic maps, geological maps, survey data, and historical aerial photos.
The geotechnical engineer or engineering geologist documents all pertinent site characteristics during the walkover, such as:
• Site boundaries and dimensions
• Topography, slope and geomorphology
• Hydrogeology and drainage
• Geology (exposure of soil and rock)
• Erosion
• Vegetation
• Hazards
• Existing buildings, roads and utilities
Based on the results, a scale site map and cross section may be created.
Geotechnical mapping can be used in conjunction with subsurface geotechnical investigations to provide additional information regarding slopes and surface features of the site, or it can be used as a stand-alone investigation for slope stability assessments, preliminary assessments for Development Applications, and developing project concept plans. When finished early in a project, it can help determine where to place development elements to minimize high-risk areas, which can save money and liability later on.
Soil Infiltration Test
Designing the absorption pit or on-site detention system (OSD) requires knowledge of the soil permeability. Testing the permeability of the soil can be an effective way to verify the soil category for design reasons, especially when there is uncertainty or when a conservative design is not intended. In compliance with AS/NZS 1547:2012 Appendix 4.1F Soil Permeability Measurement, the test will be conducted using a constant-head soil permeameter instrument. We could offer the shallow soil infiltration or absorption rate using this test.
Pavement Thickness Design
Some factors which influence the total pavement thickness are the subgrade strength, quality of construction materials and the design traffic. We have experience in NSW and QLD carrying out flexible and rigid pavement thickness designs for residential, Council and State-controlled roads using design charts and mechanistic pavement design software such as Circly. We can also assist in flexible pavement resurfacing and rehabilitation projects.
Subgrade Improvement
We can help by offering subgrade treatments, which will minimize the overall pavement thickness by providing the necessary support at the top of subgrade in cases where the subgrade strength is so low that a proof roll would fail and/or the depth of removal and replacement will be prohibitively expensive. Geosynthetics and/or cement and/or lime alteration are examples of these treatments.
