Geotechnical Investigation for a Cement Factory in Boulder Deposit

Abstract

The paper discusses the geotechnical investigations planned and carried out for a cement factory in boulder deposit. A cement factory normally has very typical structures, e.g. heavily loaded structures as cement silo, tall structures as preheater tower. In addition to these, machine foundations are also required as for crusher and rotary kiln. Keeping in view the nature of the loads, type of structures and the soil strata special geotechnical testing program was planned. The various in-situ tests included (i) field density tests (ii) shear strength tests, (iii) cyclic vertical plate load tests, (iv) horizontal plate load tests, (v) passive earth pressure tests and (vi) block resonance tests. Also, the samples brought from the field were tested in the laboratory for classification purposes. Describing briefly the test procedure, the data obtained from various tests have been interpreted to estimate various parameters used for design of foundations. Based on test data suitable values of angle of internal friction, allowable soil pressure, horizontal subgrade modulus and dynamic soil constants have been recommended for foundation design.