Advanced Piezocone Penetrometer Testing (CPTu) Solutions
Enhance geotechnical investigations with CPTu technology, combining pore pressure data and cone resistance for detailed subsurface profiling.
Advanced CPTu Systems for High-Resolution Soil Characterization
The Piezocone Penetrometer Test (CPTu) is a refined in-situ geotechnical testing method that builds upon traditional cone penetration testing (CPT) by incorporating pore water pressure measurements. This advanced test provides valuable data on soil stratigraphy, strength, deformation, and drainage conditions. CPTu plays a vital role in foundation design, site classification, liquefaction assessment, and infrastructure development across a variety of soil conditions. Its high-resolution, continuous profiling capability makes it a preferred solution for engineers needing accurate subsurface characterization.
Civil Structure Test Tech, based in Vancouver, BC, supports civil and geotechnical professionals across North America with CPTu technologies that integrate seamlessly into modern data workflows.
As a leading B2B provider, we offer both standalone and system-integrated solutions for in-field and laboratory use, helping organizations achieve efficiency, precision, and regulatory compliance in soil investigations.
Core Components
In addition to offering products and systems developed by our team and trusted partners for Piezocone Penetrometer Test (CPTu), we are proud to carry top-tier technologies from Global Advanced Operations Tek Inc. (GAO Tek Inc.) and Global Advanced Operations RFID Inc. (GAO RFID Inc.). These reliable, high-quality products and systems enhance our ability to deliver comprehensive technologies, integrations, and services you can trust. Where relevant, we have provided direct links to select products and systems from GAO Tek Inc. and GAO RFID Inc.
Hardware Components
- Piezocone Penetrometer Probes
Industrial & Asset Monitoring Sensors enable accurate soil condition monitoring for infrastructure risk assessment.
- CPT Push Rigs (Truck or Track-Mounted)
Cellular IoT Devices provide remote control and monitoring of field rigs to ensure operational safety in insured projects.
- Data Acquisition Systems (DAS)
Edge Computing Device Edge supports high-speed data processing on-site for timely damage evaluation.
- Pore Pressure Transducers
Chemical and Gas Sensors offer precise fluid pressure monitoring critical for predicting structural stability and insurance risk.
- Depth Encoders and Cable Assemblies
LoRaWAN End Devices enable wireless depth data transmission for efficient field data collection and analysis.
Software Solutions
- Real-Time Data Logging & Visualization – Software to display CPTu plots including qt, fs, u2, and derived parameters.
- Interpretation & Classification Tools – Supports soil behavior type (SBT) charts, liquefaction risk, and more.
- Export & Analysis Utilities – Integration-ready outputs for geotechnical modeling platforms (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio).
Cloud Services
- Remote Data Backup and Access – Secure cloud platforms to store field data for later analysis and report generation.
- Collaborative Project Dashboards – Share test results across project teams in real time.
Why Choose Us?
Precision Systems for Structural Performance Evaluation
Key Features
Triple-measurement capability (qc, fs, u2) with real-time depth correlation and high-speed logging.
Calibrated, modular equipment ensuring repeatable results and flexible site adaptability.
Automatic data quality controls with upgradeable components for varied geotechnical needs.
Integrations
Standardized data export formats (.gtd, .xml, .csv) for seamless geotechnical software use.
Sensor calibration and remote diagnostics via Bluetooth or cellular modules.
Compatibility
Works with hydraulic rigs, drill rigs, and penetrometer trucks for versatile deployment.
Benefits
Delivers high-resolution stratigraphy for accurate, efficient foundation design.
Enables rapid, minimally invasive testing with no spoil generation.
Provides real-time onsite interpretation across sands, clays, silts, and mixed soils.
Applications
Foundation design, site classification, and embankment/levee assessments.
Liquefaction, consolidation, and drainage studies for soil behavior prediction.
Offshore, nearshore, and land reclamation investigations for infrastructure development.
Industries
Civil engineering firms, geotechnical consultants, and infrastructure developers.
Offshore, mining, and oil & gas sectors requiring advanced soil profiling.
Environmental remediation agencies and government planning bodies.
Relevant U.S. & Canadian Standards
ASTM D5778
Standard Test Method for Performing Electronic Friction Cone and Piezocone Penetration Testing
ASTM D6067
Standard Guide for Using the Electronic Piezocone Penetrometer
EM 1110-1-1807
US Army Corps of Engineers
CAN/CSA A283
Soil testing equipment quality requirements
Case Studies
Case Study 1 – Urban Bridge Expansion, Illinois, USA
In a high-traffic corridor near Chicago, CPTu testing was used to assess foundation options for a bridge expansion project. Real-time data enabled engineers to identify a deep layer of compressible clay, leading to the selection of deep pile foundations. The use of CPTu avoided the need for multiple boreholes, saving time and over $50,000 in site investigation costs.
Case Study 2 – Levee Rehabilitation Project, Sacramento, California, USA
CPTu data was instrumental in mapping soft silt deposits underlying an aging levee system. Pore pressure readings helped determine effective preloading strategies, ensuring long-term stability under seismic loading conditions. The client cited rapid test deployment and consistent data quality as key to meeting project deadlines.
Case Study 3 – Wind Farm Feasibility Survey, Alberta, Canada
In rural Alberta, CPTu testing was used to evaluate soil uniformity across a 20-turbine wind farm layout. The results supported the use of spread footings, reducing the need for deeper foundations. Data was integrated with GIS-based planning models, improving site layout and reducing environmental disturbance.
Contact Us
Have questions about implementing Piezocone Penetrometer Test (CPTu) systems in your projects?
Contact Civil Structure Test Tech today for expert assistance, custom solutions, or a detailed product demonstration. We’re here to support your next geotechnical project across North America.