1.1 This test method covers the procedure for determining the resistance of a mechanical cone as it is advanced into subsurface soils at a steady rate.

1.2 This test method may also be used to determine the frictional resistance of a cylindrical sleeve located behind the conical point as it is advanced through subsurface soils at a steady rate.

1.3 Mechanical cones of the type described in this test method operate either continually (in which cone penetration resistance is measured while cone and push rods are moving continuously until stopped for the addition of a push rod) or discontinuously (in which cone penetration resistance and, optionally, sleeve friction are measured during a penetration stop of the push rods) using an inner rod system and a cone tip that is telescoping.

1.4 This test method applies to mechanical cones. Field tests using electronic type cones are covered elsewhere by Test Method D5778. The mechanical cone data does not yield the same test results as the electrical penetrometer and the data obtained from it must not be used to estimate engineering properties from engineering guides based on electrical penetrometer (see 4.4.1).

1.5 Cone penetration testing data can be used to interpret subsurface stratigraphy, and through use of site specific correlations, they can provide data on engineering properties of soils intended for use in design and construction of earthworks and foundations for structures.

1.6 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. Reporting of test results in units other than SI shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this test method.

1.7 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026 unless superseded by this standard.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.