FAQ

What can the light falling weight deflectometer „TERRATEST 3000“ do?
„TERRATEST 3000“ measures the dynamic deformation modulus( Evd value) of grounds in MN/m², that is in Mpa, giving you information on the bearing capacity and on the compaction of the subbase.
 
What do I need to know in order to use the „TERRATEST 3000“?
You don’t need to have a particular know-how to use the instrument. After a quick training, everybody is able to take tests without any loading vehicle .A test takes max 2 minutes.
 
Is there a correlation between the results taken by means of the LFWD and the ones taken with the static plate?
Yes, there is a correlation with the classical static plate test. However it depends on the material and subbase typology and on the compaction degree. For further information about the german technical regulations click here.
 
Till what depth can the „TERRATEST 3000“ take test?
The depth depends on the material and goes from 30 to 60 cm, maximum twice the diameter of the plate. In this way we guarantee the investigation of the layers one at a time.
 
Are the tests made with „TERRATEST 3000“ officially recognized?
At the moment the test made with „TERRATEST 3000“ is officially recognized in Germany and Austria as test method for road, railway and pipe constructions.
 
On what materials can the „TERRATEST 3000“ be used?
„TERRATEST 3000“ is suitable to test the bearing capacity of the ground during road constructions. For ground it’s meant backfill materials, unbound base layers, ground improvements, cold recycling materials, mineral impermeable layers, asphalt, cured concrete and asphalt and stone pavements. In accordance with the german technical regulations the maximum grain size of the subbase to be tested has to be 63 mm.
 
Does the temperature and the weather conditions affect the results of the test?
„TERRATEST 3000“ can be used with a temperature between 0 and 40 Celsius degrees, in accordance with the german technical regulations TP BF-StB section 8.3. However to obtain precise data the subbase must be dry.