Plate load testing carried out to British Standard BS 1377

One of our more popular construction materials testing services, we carry out incremental plate load testing on sites throughout the UK, providing our clients with project-critical information, often in real time.

Described in detail within British Standard BS1377: Soils for Civil Engineering Purposes, due to its ability to assess conditions at the surface, this test is predominantly used in conjunction with temporary works.

It’s no surprise, therefore, that we’re commonly asked to…

  • Prove pile mats
  • Prove crane mates prior to plant arriving on site, thus ensuring safety
  • Prove slabs prior to the installation or design of particularly heavy plant

The incremental plate loading test itself involves applying kentledge – a counterweight – to the ground in question, typically in the form of a 13t+ tracked excavator.

Our team will provide insight into the size of plate needed to simulate the loads required, with the design/safe working load then being applied to the plate in equal increments. Any deformation will be recorded with reports available there and then to avoid delays on site.

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The best way to contact us about Incremental Plate Load Testing is directly through our website. Just leave us your details and a quick overview of what you need, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.






    Incremental Plate Load Test
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    FAQs

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    • This depends on a number of factors including material thickness and the size of kentledge. The plate diameter affects the zone of influence of the test. The zone of influence is 1.5 times the plate diameter.

    • For most test situations, a 13-tonne machine will be sufficient. Please contact us for further guidance.

    • We generally issue plates reports within 2 working days. On request (and where possible), however, we may be able to issue results the next working day.

    • CBR tests are commonly used in road construction and where designing subbase layers. Incremental plate load tests are usually used for obtaining ground bearing capacity, often on piling mats or crane mats.

    • We're based in Watford in Hertfordshire, not far from London, but we regularly travel throughout the UK including Bedfordshire, Middlesex, Buckinghamshire and Surrey to support our clients.

    • Whilst every project is different, we charge based on a competitive day rate. Simply get in touch for a tailored quotation.

    • Many of our clients are initially unsure as to exactly what type of testing is needed to capture the information their projects require. If that sounds like you, just get in touch and a member of our team will advise on the most appropriate and cost-effective approach to take.

    • Absolutely. Whilst the majority of our works are carried out during normal working hours between Monday and Friday, we understand that this won't be possible for every client. That's why we offer an out of hours and weekend working service available upon request.

    • On the whole, our lead time for site work is between 1-2 weeks from receipt of an instruction. That said, we completely understand that some projects require a more immediate response and will always do our best to accommodate urgent requests.

    • Yes. All of our engineers are trained to work at height with PASMA and IPAF certification. We can also bring any necessary access equipment with us - such as a tower or MEWP - as necessary.

    • Yes. We have a number of highly experienced engineers who have confined space training.

    Why choose Perry Testing?

    Time served professionals

    Every one of our engineers and technicians has at least 10 years' experience in structural investigation, scanning and materials testing.

    Easy-to-read, concise reports

    Our beautifully formatted reports are delivered promptly whilst getting straight to the point, providing the data you need direct to your inbox.

    Professional, friendly staff

    We take pride in the professionalism and attitude of our staff. From first contact to reporting, we'll treat you as we'd like to be treated ourselves.

    Proven track record

    Every year, we complete hundreds of projects for a truly loyal client base, firms that return time after time, confident in the service they'll receive.

    Nationwide service

    Our teams travel the length and breadth of the UK, delivering structural investigation and testing services on a truly diverse range of sites.

    Reduced risk and costs

    Using the very latest technology and techniques, we help reduce unexpected costs, keeping your team, project and organisation safe in the process.

    "Perry Testing are more than just another surveying company, they provide modern solutions to real problems. Always a pleasure to work with them."

    — Ben Joshua, Senior Engineer, Keltbray

    "We have engaged Perry Testing on a range and number of projects to provide scanning, sampling, and testing and always found them responsive and their reports to be high quality and informative. I would highly recommend them."

    — Malcolm Brady, Director, MBP

    "I have worked with Perry Testing Limited on several projects over the past 3 or 4 years, and they have always responded to our requests at very short notice, providing a professional, expert service every time."

    — Ben White, Managing Quantity Surveyor, United Living

    Incremental Plate Load Testing

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