The CPT truck is a CPT penetrometer rig based on a truck-chassis. The CPT truck has been designed to execute soil mechanical research based on static Cone Penetration Testing (CPT) techniques in an efficient manner. By means of the penetrometer pusher, installed in the centre of gravity of the CPT truck, either an electrical or mechanical probe (called a cone) is pushed into the ground and the mechanical resistance and friction of the soil is recorded. The CPT truck itself has a relatively high own weight and serves as counterweight to provide the required penetrative force.
The CPT truck is normally used on badly accessible job-sites and will therefore be constructed on top of a 4×4 all-wheel drive truck chassis. Before the CPT truck can do a CPT test, it is to be levelled horizontally. This is done by means of the levelling jacks; 3 hydraulic cylinders with large footplates that actuate the up and down movement of the truck. With these jacks the CPT truck can be levelled exactly horizontally and and the large footplates assure its stability during testing.
All functionalities of the CPT truck are driven hydraulically. The diesel engine of the truck drives the hydraulic pump that generates the required working pressure and volume for all hydraulic functions.
The CPT penetrometer pusher is located inside the working cabin of the CPT truck. Next to it the operating lever for the up-and-down movement of the penetrometer pusher is located and the electrical cabinet housing all electronics, the engine control panel and control elements.
Truck with 4×4 Drive Train
The client is completely free to select the base truck to be converted into a CPT truck. This can either be a new or a secondhand truck. Taking in mind, that the truck has to operate in the field, we strongly recommend to opt for an all-wheel drive truck. The engineering team of Gouda-Geo will help the client to select the right base truck.
