What Does
Test Pitting Mean?
Test pitting can be defined as the process of excavating a pit for the purpose of carrying out tests for different purposes in a trenchless project. It helps visualize soil over a larger area than is possible with boring samples, though at shallower depths.
Test pits are excavated to sample and investigate superficial deposits up to a maximum depth of 4 to 5 meters, and in soils that can stand unsupported.
Trenchlesspedia Explains Test Pitting
The trial pit record includes stability of excavated sides, orientation, position and surface elevation of the pit, representation of encountered strata including lateral variation, and samples of groundwater, if encountered. Test pitting can also be used for verifying the presence of utility lines indicated in the geotechnical report and also for verifying whether the pipeline alignment is within permitted grade and tolerance.
Test pits are dug at regular intervals along the path of the pipeline for the various tests to be conducted.