Evaluation of Bearing Capacity using Plate Load Test

The load-settlement response from plate load tests (0.3 m diameter, 25 mm thick) carried out on a compacted soil layers. A study has been carried out of the bearing capacity of soil layers overlying loose soil. Considering the interfacial contact between steel plate and soil finite element model proposed and the bearing capacity was analyzed. In addition to the field test program, laboratory tri-axial compression tests were performed to determine the axial stress-strain response of the compacted soil layers. The FEM analysis is carried out using MIDAS GTS-NX a three-dimensional finite-element tool. Compared with plate load test results, the proposed method was feasible and more reasonable to evaluate the bearing capacity. Results of the FEM analysis are compared with the plate load test results. The final failure modes observed in the plate load test involved punching through the top layer. Also designed loading platform and base frame of the Multiple truss setup of Plate Load Test. That is to reduce the time required to perform in-situ plate load test.