Here, bring data from the Input tab using simple cell references.
3.1 Average Settlement per Load
=AVERAGE(Input!D2:F2) – This averages the three dial gauges.
3.2 Net Settlement
The first load often settles due to seating. Subtract the settlement at the first load from all subsequent settlements:
=AvgSettlement - AvgSettlement_at_FirstLoad
3.3 Safe Bearing Capacity (As per IS 1888:1982)
For a plate load test, the safe bearing capacity for a given allowable settlement (Sa) is:
SBC = (Pressure at Sa) / Factor of Safety (usually 3)
In Excel, use FORECAST.LINEAR to interpolate pressure for a given settlement. Example: If allowable settlement is 40mm:
=FORECAST.LINEAR(40, Pressure_Range, Settlement_Range)/3 plate load test report xls work
3.4 Modulus of Subgrade Reaction (Ks)
Ks = (Pressure at 1.25mm settlement) / 1.25 (Unit: kN/m³)
In Excel: =INDEX(Pressure_Range, MATCH(1.25, Settlement_Range, 1))/1.25
While building your own is educational, many engineers need a turnkey solution. Several reputable geotechnical websites offer free and paid templates. Look for features like:
Note: Always validate any downloaded XLS file against a manual calculation before field use.
This shows creep behavior.
You have three options:
You might ask: Why not use dedicated geotechnical software like gINT or Plaxis?
Answer: Cost and flexibility. An Excel (XLS) workflow is:
Whether you download a template or build your own, your XLS workbook must handle the following five tasks seamlessly: Here, bring data from the Input tab using
| Column A | Column B | Column C | |----------|----------|----------| | Pressure (kN/m² = kPa) | Settlement (mm) | Settlement (mm) - corrected |
Formula for pressure:
Pressure = Load / (π × (Plate Dia/2)²)
Example: Plate diameter = 300 mm (0.3 m), area = 0.0707 m²
In B2: =Load / 0.0707
Typical table:
| Pressure (kPa) | Settlement (mm) | Corrected Settlement | |----------------|----------------|----------------------| | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 | | 70.7 | 0.11 | 0.11 | | 141.4 | 0.27 | 0.27 | | 282.8 | 0.63 | 0.63 | | 565.7 | 1.38 | 1.38 | | 848.5 | 2.50 | 2.50 | | 1131.4 | 4.00 | 4.00 | | 1414.2 | 5.80 | 5.80 | Note: Always validate any downloaded XLS file against