1.1 This test method covers the procedure for determining theresistance to penetration of a conical pointed penetrometer as itis advanced into subsurface soils at a slow, steady rate.

1.2 This test method is also used to determine the frictionalresistance of a cylindrical sleeve located behind the conical pointas it is advanced through subsurface soils at a slow, steadyrate.

1.3 This test method applies to friction-cone penetrometers ofthe electronic type.

1.4 This test method can be used to determine pore pressuredevelopment during push of a piezocone penetrometer. Pore pressuredissipation, after a push, can also be monitored for correlation tosoil compressibility and permeability.

1.5 Other sensors such as inclinometer, seismic, and temperaturesensors may be included in the penetrometer to provide usefulinformation. The use of an inclinometer is highly recommended sinceit will provide information on potentially damaging situationsduring the sounding process.

1.6 Cone penetration test data can be used to interpretsubsurface stratigraphy, and through use of site specificcorrelations it can provide data on engineering properties of soilsintended for use in design and construction of earthworks andfoundations for structures.

1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded asstandard. Within Section 13 on Calculations, SI metric units areconsidered the standard. Other commonly used units such as theinch-pound system are shown in brackets. The various data reportedshould be displayed in mutually compatible units as agreed to bythe client or user. Cone tip projected area is commonly referred toin centimetres for convenience. The values stated in each systemare not equivalents; therefore, each system must be usedindependently of the other.

Note 1--This test method does not include hydraulic or pneumaticpenetrometers. However, many of the procedural requirements hereincould apply to those penetrometers.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of thesafety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is theresponsibility of the user of this standard to establishappropriate safety and health practices and determine theapplicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.