Precision Plate Load Testing Systems for Geotechnical Analysis
Engineered for foundation design, soil assessment, and field validation—built to meet the rigorous demands of modern civil structures.
Field-Ready Plate Load Test Systems for Accurate Foundation Design
Plate load test systems play a vital role in determining the bearing capacity and settlement characteristics of soils under applied loads. These systems simulate field loading conditions to evaluate how the subgrade will respond to foundation pressures. Essential for geotechnical engineering, construction site validation, and infrastructure design, plate load testing delivers accurate data for safe, efficient foundation planning.
Civil Structure Test Tech delivers reliable, modular plate load test systems designed for engineers, contractors, and infrastructure firms across North America.
Our solutions provide real-time data, regulatory compliance, and field-proven performance—empowering project teams with faster, smarter foundation validation.
Core Components
In addition to offering products and systems developed by our team and trusted partners for Plate Load Test Systems, 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
- Single-Point LDV Units
Motion & Position Sensors enable precise vibration monitoring to assess structural health of insured assets.
- Scanning LDV Systems
Wi-Fi HaLow End Devices provide automated, wireless data capture for comprehensive risk assessment in asset portfolios.
- Tripod and Fixture Mounts
LF RFID Readers, Tags & Accessories assist in tracking and securing equipment setup during on-site insurance inspections.
- Signal Conditioning Units
Z-Wave Gateways/Hubs ensure real-time, reliable data transmission from laser sensors for damage evaluation.
- Protective Enclosures
NB-IoT Accessories offer rugged protection and connectivity for outdoor sensor deployment in continuous monitoring scenarios.
Software Solutions
- Load-Settlement Curve Analysis Software – Graphical interpretation and modeling of soil behavior.
- Customizable Reporting Tools – Generate geotechnical reports aligned with ASTM and CSA standards.
Cloud Services
- Cloud Syncing Platforms – Enable remote access to test data for collaborative analysis and compliance documentation.
Why Choose Us?
Precision Systems for Structural Performance Evaluation
Key Features
Real-time load–settlement logging with modular plate sizes and battery-powered DAQ.
Wireless/cloud-enabled monitoring with rugged field-ready designs.
Compatible with deep foundation and geotechnical workflows.
Integrations
Seamless integration with borehole loggers and soil moisture sensors
Integration-ready with Mobile Data Collection Systems
Compatibility
Compatible with GPS/RTK survey modules for geolocation tagging
Cross-compatible with Load Cells & Pressure Transducers
Benefits
Improve accuracy of foundation design while reducing overengineering.
Gain immediate validation with real-time results and regulatory compliance.
Lower lifecycle costs with reusable, modular equipment.
Applications
Evaluation of shallow foundations, soil stiffness, and settlement prediction.
Validation of wind turbine bases, solar farms, and pavement foundations.
Testing for tanks, retaining walls, embankments, and heavy equipment pads.
Industries
Civil engineering, infrastructure, and geotechnical consulting.
Commercial, residential, and transportation construction sectors.
Energy, utilities, mining, and municipal planning authorities.
Relevant U.S. & Canadian Standards
ASTM D1194
Bearing Capacity of Soils
ASTM D1195
Repetitive Static Plate Load Tests
ASTM D1196
Nonrepetitive Static Plate Load Tests
AASHTO T222
Static Plate Load Test
CSA A23.1
Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction
Case Studies
Case Study 1 – U.S. Interstate Bridge Expansion (Colorado DOT)
The Colorado Department of Transportation used plate load testing to validate soil suitability before widening bridge abutments. Civil Structure Test Tech provided a hydraulic system integrated with DAQ units that enabled rapid field analysis and compliance with ASTM standards. The project reported a 25% reduction in unplanned excavation thanks to early detection of variable soil behavior.
Case Study 2 – Wind Farm Foundation Validation (Texas)
A major wind energy developer partnered with us to assess soil stiffness at multiple turbine sites. Our modular plate system and cloud-enabled logging allowed their engineers to conduct simultaneous tests across 10 locations. The client reported reduced rework and improved structural integrity during construction.
Case Study 3 – Canadian Rail Corridor Upgrade (Ontario)
Working with a leading Canadian engineering consultancy, our systems supported plate load testing at key embankments along a railway corridor undergoing double-tracking. The solution met CSA and AASHTO standards, and all data were digitally archived for Transport Canada audit.
Looking to improve your geotechnical testing workflows or need a tailored plate load test system for your next project?
Civil Structure Test Tech is here to help.