Designation USBR 6575-09

Determining Situ Deformation Modulus

Using a Flexible Volumetric Dilatometer
This procedure is under the jurisdiction of the Materials Engineering and
Research Laboratory, code 86-68180, Technical Service Center, Denver,
Colorado. The procedure is issued under the fixed designation USBR 6575. The
number immediately following the designation indicates the first year of acceptance
or the year of last revision.

1. Scope to determine the short-term

deformability of rock mass. It can
1.1 Explanation.-This designation also be used to measure the creep
establishes the guidelines, properties of soft rocks, such as salt or
requirements, procedure, and analyses potash.
for determining in situ deformation
modulus of a rock mass using a 1.3 Test Site.-This method is
flexible volumetric dilatometer. usually conducted in a vertical or
horizontal borehole sized
1.1.1 This designation applies appropriately for the specific
mainly to the common commercially dilatometer or as dictated by the data
available volumetric dilatometer for required for the project. Test sites
an NX-sized (75.7-millimeters [mm] may be either on the surface or
[2.98-inch (in)]) borehole, but would underground.
apply to other dilatometers for
different borehole sizes. 1.4 Units.-Stating the values in
Standard Imperial (SI)/metric units is
1.1.2 This designation is to be regarded as standard. The
described in the context of obtaining values given in parenthesis are for
data for designing, constructing, or information only.
maintaining Reclamation structures.
1.5 Caveats.
1.1.3 This designation focuses
on the loading side of the pressure 1.5.1 Safety.-This designation
curve with some instruction on the does not purport to address all the
collection of data on the unload cycle. safety issues associated with its use
and may involve use of hazardous
1.2 Application.-This designation materials, equipment, and operations.
applies to hard and soft rock. Note The user has the responsibility to
that while most of the information in establish and adopt appropriate safety
this designation may pertain to all and health practices.
flexible dilatometers, this designation
is specifically designed for the
Probex 1. This probe is mainly used
 USBR 6575-09

1.5.2 Codes.-The user must USBR 6010 Handling, Storage,

comply with prevalent regulatory Shipment, Inspection,
codes while using this procedure. Photographing and
Disposition Of Rock Core
1.5.3 Other manuals.-This
designation does not purport to USBR 6560 Determining In situ
address all of the other details that Deformation Modulus and
might be contained in a Creep Characteristics of Rock
manufacturer’s manual for a specific Mass using a Radial Jacking
dilatometer. The user is responsible Method
for integrating any important details
from these manuals. USBR 6563 Determining In situ
Stress, In situ Deformation
1.6 Sources.-This designation Modulus and Creep
reflects the information available Characteristics of Rock Mass
from American Society for Testing Using Flatjack Method
and Materials, International Society
for Rock Mechanics Commission on USBR 6565 Determining In situ
Testing Methods, Reclamation, Deformation Modulus and
manufacturer, and other sources. Creep Characteristics of Rock
Mass Using Uniaxial Jacking
2. Applicable Documents Test (Flexible Plate Loading)
Method
2.1 USBR Procedures:
USBR 1040 Calibrating Pressure USBR 6570 Determining In situ
Gages Deformation Modulus and
Creep Characteristics of Rock
USBR 1050 Calibrating Pressure Mass Using Diametrically
Transducers Loaded Borehole Jack
Method
USBR 3000 Using Significant
Digits in Calculating and USBR 9300 Checking, Rounding,
Reporting Laboratory Data and Reporting of Laboratory
Data
USBR 3910 Standard Terms and
Symbols Relating to Rock 2.2 ASTM Documents.-
Mechanics Singh, Bhawani, “Reliability of
Dilatometer Tests in the
USBR 6005 Diamond Core Determination of the Modulus of
Drilling, Coring, and Deformation of a Jointed Rock
Sampling For Site Mass,” Field Testing and
Investigation Instrumentation of Rock, ASTM
STP 554, ASTM 6032, and American
Society for Testing And Materials,
pp 52-72, 1973.

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 USBR 6575-09

D6032 Standard Test Method, volume and pressure changes, the in

Determining Rock Quality situ modulus of deformation of the
Designation (RQD) of Rock Core. rock mass and other rock properties
are calculated.
2.3 ISRM Suggested Methods.-
Suggested Methods for Deformability 4. Significance and Use
Determination Using a Flexible
Dilatometer, International Society for 4.1 Input Parameters for Feature
Rock Mechanics Commission on Stability.-Prediction of rock mass
Testing Methods, Int. J. Rock. Mech. deformability, creep characteristics,
Min. Sci. and Geomech. Abstr., Vol rebound and permanent set have
24, No. 2, pp 123-134, 1987. immense engineering significance.
The discontinuities that exist in a rock
2.4 Other Publications.- mass, and the genesis, crystallo-
Franklin, J.A. and Dusseault, M. B., graphy, texture, fabric, and other
"Dilatometer Tests," Rock factors may cause the rock mass to
Engineering, McGraw-Hill behave as an anisotropic,
Publishing Company, pp 281-285, heterogeneous, discontinuous
1989. medium. Determination of rock mass
deformability yields a critical
3. Summary of Method parameter in the design of
foundations of dams, support of
3.1 Drill Borehole.-An NX underground excavations, and
borehole is drilled to provide access stability of rock slopes.
for the dilatometer device to test the
rock mass at selected intervals and Note 1.-Reclamation also conducts
locations in the borehole. If the rock mass deformability tests using
borehole requires support, then other designations, such as radial jack
cementing, grouting, or casing may be tests (USBR 6560), flatjack tests
required. (USBR 6563), flexible plate tests
(USBR 6565), and borehole jack tests
3.2 Set Up Test.-A calibrated (USBR 6570).
flexible dilatometer is lowered in the
borehole at a selected test location Note 2.-Though a rock mass
and a seating pressure is applied behaves in an anisotropic and
hydraulically. heterogeneous manner, the
calculations (see section 13) for a
3.3 Conduct Test.-To conduct the rock mass deformation modulus are
test, the dilatometer is expanded by based on assumptions of elasticity and
increasing the hydraulic pressure in homogeneity. However, they still
steps, and corresponding volume render results that are practical,
changes are recorded for each simple, usable, and not significantly
pressure test. different from those obtained using
heterogeneity and inelasticity
3.4 Calculate Rock Deformation calculations. The modulus is
Properties.-Using the recorded calculated using an elastic solution for

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 USBR 6575-09

a uniformly applied distributed radial (m3) (12 cubic feet [ft3]), and is often
pressure over the dilatometer/rock too small for direct application of the
contact interface (figure 1). results in the final design of a
structure. Dilatometer modulus can
4.2 Rock Mass Behavior.-In situ be correlated with the moduli
tests such as this one provide general obtained by other methods (for
information regarding rock mass example, the plate loading or radial
behavior. These tests are important jacking methods). The correlated
when designing and constructing dilatometer modulus can then be used
structures of importance. The instead of other more expensive,
dilatometer test is much less large-scale, in situ modulus tests.
expensive and time consuming
compared to other deformability tests, Note 5.-Dilatometers are valuable
such as the radial jack (USBR 6560) for rapid testing of boreholes in
or flexible plate tests (USBR 6565). jointed rocks that yield poor core
Dilatometer tests can be performed in recovery and inadequate specimens
several boreholes at a reasonable cost for laboratory testing as long as the
and effort. Dilatometer tests provide borehole wall is suitable for testing.
a qualitative evaluation of a rock
mass deformability before performing Note 6.-The radial displacements of
a larger scale deformability test such the borehole walls during
as a radial jack test. pressurization are calculated by the
total volume change of the
4.3 Results for Relevant dilatometer. As such, the dilatometer
Structural Design Data.-Results of test result indicates only the averaged
dilatometer tests are used to provide value of the modulus of deformation.
deformation modulus data for the Unlike caliper dilatometers, the total
design and analysis of structures on or volumetric type dilatometer test does
in rock. The obtained deformation not provide information on the
modulus is commonly less than the anisotropic properties of the rock
elastic modulus determined in the mass because it cannot measure the
laboratory. specific deformation at a location or
orientation.
Note 3.-The ratio of field to
laboratory determined values of Note 7.-Calculations for modulus of
modulus of deformation show a wide deformation value neglect the in situ
range of variation, from 1/16 to 1. stress and stress history of the rock
and are outside the scope of this test
Note 4.-The dilatometer test is a procedure.
relatively small scale test and
bidirectional at best. The results are Note 8.-Discontinuities can
good for feasibility or preliminary influence the value of the in situ
levels of design. Furthermore, the modulus of deformation. The test,
volume of rock stressed in a therefore, should be located away
dilatometer test is quite small, from the existing discontinuities and
generally about 0.34 cubic meters

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 USBR 6575-09

Figure 1. Radial pressure exerted by a flexible dilatometer membrane

preferably in areas of homogeneous level of design (for example, during

rocks, unless required. feasibility design, rock mass
parameters obtained from index test
4.4 Application Temperatures.- methods may be sufficient or tests
This test method is normally may be used for reasons stated in
performed at ambient temperatures, Note 4).
but equipment can be modified or
substituted for operations at other 5. Description of Terms Specific
temperatures. to This Designation

4.5 Laboratory Testing.-In many 5.1 Discontinuities.-Joints,

cases, laboratory tests may be bedding planes, fractures, and cracks
preferred over or used in conjunction contained in the rock mass.
with in situ tests to keep the cost of
testing consistent with the required

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 USBR 6575-09

5.2 Dilatometer.-A probe with a external forces, heat gradient) has

flexible membrane that is inflated by been removed.
injecting a suitable fluid in the
annular space between a steel core 5.8 RRU.- Readout reading when
and the flexible membrane until it membrane is completely retracted or
applies pressure to the borehole walls. uninflated (undilated).

5.3 Flexible Membrane.-An 5.9 RRD .-Readout reading when

expandable dilatable membrane that membrane is completely inflated
is mounted over the steel core of the (dilated).
dilatometer.
5.10 Secant Modulus of
5.4 Parasitic Expansion.- Deformation.-The slope of a straight
Expansion due to the pressure and line between zero stress and a point
heat. on the stress-strain curve at any
specified stress (figure 2). This
5.5 Pressure Correction Factor.- modulus should be used for complete
The pressure necessary to expand the load steps from zero to the desired
probe at a specific volume under load.
atmospheric pressure. This factor is
determined by conducting a free
expansion test outside any
confinement by either a borehole or
calibration cylinder that analyzes the
influence of the inertia of the
membrane. This curve is also called
the inertia curve of the membrane.

5.6 Recovery Modulus of

Deformation.-A tangent modulus to
the unloading stress-strain curve
(figure 2). This modulus is usually
higher than the other moduli and is
used in calculations where unloading
conditions exist. Figure 2. - Relationship between
tangent, secant, and recovery moduli.
Note 9. The difference between
the tangent and recovery moduli 5.11 Tangent Modulus of
indicates the material's capacity for Deformation.-The slope of the stress-
hysteresis or energy dissipation strain curve obtained over the
capabilities (figure 2). segment of the loading curve judged
as the most representative of elastic
5.7 Residual Stress.-Stresses that response. This modulus neglects the
remain in a solid mass after the end effects of the curve and is better
original cause of the stresses (e.g., suited for small stress changes.

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 USBR 6575-09

Note 10. The ratio between the borehole and has a maximum
secant modulus and the tangent working pressure of 30 Mega Pascals
modulus can be used to estimate the (MPa) (4,350 pounds per square inch
degree of damage in a material. [lbf/in2]).

5.12 Tectonic Stresses.-Stresses 6.1.2 The overall length of the

from geological factors such as probe including the saturation plug is
regional uplift, downward warping, 749 mm (29.5 in) and its nominal
faulting, folding, and others. diameter is 73.7 mm (2.9 in). The
nominal length on which the
5.13 Thermal Stresses.-Stresses from membrane can expand is 457 mm
non geologic and geologic factors (18 in). This configuration gives a
such as permafrost or natural thermal length/diameter ratio greater than 6
gradients with depth due to the for the expandable portion of the
cooling of the earth’s core or local probe.
sources such as magma chambers or
batholiths. 6.1.3 A unique characteristic of
this dilatometer is that pressurization
5.14 Volume Correction Factor.- of the expandable membrane is done
The intrinsic volumetric expansion of immediately upstream from the
the probe and the hydraulic membrane by movement of a piston
components when the probe is actuated from a manual pump at the
pressurized in a medium of infinite surface. This dual-action hydraulic
rigidity. The factor accounts for any module which houses the piston
small difference existing between the allows the use of the dilatometer at
injected volume that is read on the great depths and eliminates the
readout unit and the real volume parasitic expansion of the tubing and
increase caused by the deformation of pumping system.
the rock tested.
6.1.4 Volume changes are
5.15 Other Terms.-See USBR 3910 calculated by recording the
displacement of that piston.
6. Apparatus
6.2 Expandable Dilatometer
6.1 The Dilatometer System.-The Probe.-This consists of a dilatometer
dilatometer, probe (figure 3) is a membrane (shown on figure 3)
cylindrical probe with a radially mounted over a steel core (C). The
expandable flexible membrane, a steel core is fitted with a saturation
dual-action hydraulic module, readout plug at its downstream extremity.
unit with electrical cables, hydraulic The plug is protected by a conical-
pump, gages, transducer, hoses, and a shaped end cap that also helps to
measuring module (figure 3). insert and guide the probe into and
down the borehole opening. Water
6.1.1 The dilatometer is saturation of the system fills the
configured to operate in an NX-size annular space between the dilatable
(75.7-millimeter [mm] [2.98-inch]) membrane and the steel core as well

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 USBR 6575-09

Figure 3.- Schematic representation of the PROBEX-I dilatometer system with

PRO-PR2 readout unit (based on schematics from SMARTEC).

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 USBR 6575-09

as cylinder E. The dual action piston volume of water equal to 664.2 cubic
module identified by letters F, G, and centimeters (cm3) (40.53 cubic inches
H on figure 3 is the mechanism [in3]) to be injected into the probe.
responsible for inflation or deflation Prior to using the dilatometer for
of the probe (See 6.3). testing, complete water and oil
saturation (filling) and calibration of
6.3 Dual-Action Hydraulic the probe is necessary (see
Module.-The dual-action hydraulic section 12).
module (figure 3) contains two
cylinders in which the ends of the 6.4 Measuring Module.-The
piston travel and operated by a measuring module of the dilatometer
manual hydraulic pump. (figure 3) consists of an LVDT
connected to a readout unit via an
6.3.1 When the piston is fully electric cable.
retracted, as shown on figure 3,
cylinder E is completely filled with 6.4.1 The LVDT is enclosed in a
water and cylinder EI is filled with oil. watertight casing and is fixed to the
With the small handle on the manual upstream end of the dual piston and
pump in the inflation position, oil is measures the displacement of pistons
pumped immediately behind H and F throughout the loading and
(upstream) the F end of the piston and unloading process. The LVDT output
the whole piston moves downstream is powered by, and the output is fed
pushing water into the dilatometer into, the readout unit, which displays
probe. Simultaneously, the oil a reading corresponding to the
contained within cylinder EI is position of the piston inside cylinder
returned to the hydraulic pump via the (E).
deflation line.
LVDT characteristics are:
6.3.2 To deflate the dilatometer
probe, the small handle on the manual • Linear travel: 12.7 cm (5 in)
pump is placed in the deflation • Input voltage: 15 volts d.c.
position and the oil is pumped out of • Scale factor: 0.79
cylinder I. The oil previously volt/centimeter (2 V/in)
pumped into the upstream side of • Null voltage: 0 volts direct
piston F in cylinder E is current (d.c.)
simultaneously returned to the pump • Temperature range:
via the inflation line and the water • 54 to 94 °C
that was added is brought back into • (-65 to +200 °F)
cylinder E.
6.4.2 The output of the linear
6.3.3 The internal diameter of variable differential transformer
the water cylinder E (figure 3) is 60 (LVDT) is linear with the
mm (2.362 in), and the overall travel displacement of the piston and
of the dual piston is set at 234.9 mm cylinder (E) has been machined with
(9.25 in). This geometrical high precision. Therefore, a
configuration allows a total maximum calibration constant giving the

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 USBR 6575-09

number of cubic centimeters of water membrane (figure 5).

injected per unit of output read on the 6.7 Pressure Readouts
readout unit can be calculated.
6.7.1 Pressure Gages.-Two
6.4.3 Waterproof electrical pressure gages are mounted on the
coaxial cable to provide power and hydraulic pump. The gage control-
electrical signals between the surface ling the test pressure is fixed on a
and LVDT cable should be long metal block mounted on the inflation
enough to handle the depths to which circuit and has a pressure range of 0
the testing is to be performed and to 35 MPa (0 to 5,000 lbf/in2) and an
should be on some sort of reel system accuracy of 0.25 percent.
for cable management.
6.7.2 Presssure Transducers.-A
6.5 Readout Unit.-A two-channel second gage is also fixed to a metal
portable readout unit equipped with block mounted on the deflation
rechargeable batteries is used to circuit. This gage has a smaller
indicate the volume change of the pressure range than the gage mounted
probe as well as the oil inflation on the inflation circuit and is provided
pressure delivered by the pump. as a safety feature to prevent over-
pressurization of the cylinder upon
The front panel of the dilatometer complete retraction of the dual-acting
readout unit is shown on figure 4. piston. In addition to the 0 to 35 MPa
The readout unit can run on batteries (0- to 5000 lbf/in2) pressure gage, the
(that are rechargeable gel-types) or a inflation line is equipped with a 0- to
line voltage of 110 volts, 60 hertz, or 35-MPa (0-to 5000-lbf/in2) pressure
a 220-volt, 50-hertz power supply. transducer.
The unit has an accuracy of 0.015
percent and a letter height of 13 mm For the transducer, the main
(0.5 in). It weighs 9 kg (20 lb), and specifications are:
its operating range is 0 to 60 °C (32 to
140 °F). • Operating pressure range: 0 to
35 MPa (0 to 5,000 lbf/in2)
Note 11.-Do not operate the readout
unit when battery voltage is 5.0 volts • Resolution: infinite
or lower. Also, do not operate the
readout unit on line operation for • Combined linearity and
more than the battery manufacturer’s hysteresis: 0.1% full scale
recommendation.
• Operating temperature: -20 to
6.6 Hydraulic Pump.-A manually +80 °C (-4 to 176 °F)
operated hydraulic pump with a
reservoir capacity of 2.294 liters (140 The pressure transducer comes pre-
in3) and a pressure rating of 0 to 70 mounted on the inflation manifold of
MPa (0 to 10,000 lbf/in2) comes with the hydraulic pump and is read using
a four-way control valve to inflate or a readout unit (figure 4) (see
deflate the dilatometer flexible section 6.5).

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USBR 6575-09

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 USBR 6575-09

Figure 4.- Dilatometer readout unit for model PRO-R2

Figure 5.- Dilatometer components

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 USBR 6575-09

6.8 Hydraulic Hoses.-High A multiple armed, non-averaging

pressure hydraulic lines connect the device is preferred.
hydraulic pump to the dilatometer
probe. The inflation line has a 7.4 Calibration Cylinder. Any
working pressure of 70 MPa metallic (typically steel or aluminum)
(10,000 lbf/in2) and the deflation thick wall cylinder with an interior
line has a maximum working pressure diameter of around 76 mm (3 inches)
of 32 MPa (4,700 lbf/in2). The and can withstand the maximum
outside diameters of the hoses are capacity of the probe.
8 millimeters (5/16 in). Both the
hydraulic hoses and electrical cables 7.5 Other Equipment
may be integrated or bundled together
for ease of cable management and • Bucket
insertion into the borehole. • Hydraulic oil
• Wrenches
7. Auxiliary Items • Screwdriver
• Hammer
7.1 Borehole Drilling and • Scratch pad
Sampling Equipment.-This equipment • Time clock
includes an assortment of excavation • Steel and/or aluminum thick wall
tools, such as drills, drilling rods, drill calibration cylinder(s)
casings, drill bits, and auxiliary tools • Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
for core drilling (76-mm [3.0-in]) tape (also known as “thread seal
diameter test boreholes at designated tape,” “Teflon® tape,” “tape
locations and depths and for raising dope,” or “plumber's tape”)
and lowering the dilatometer in the
drill hole. 8. Preparation of Apparatus

7.2 Borehole Viewing Device.- 8.1 Saturation Procedure.- An

Some type of viewing device, such as adequate water saturation (filling) of
a borehole video camera, and/or the dilatometer probe and cylinder E
televiewer, is desirable for (figure 3) is necessary before
examination of the conditions and conducting any test on rock. This
dimensions of the borehole’s internal saturation must be undertaken every
surface and to compare and verify time the membrane probe is
geologic features observed in the core dismounted from the measuring probe
when the core recovery is poor or (sonde) and when the dilatometer is
when retrieving oriented cores is not used for the first time to perform a
feasible. test. The following saturation
procedure must be followed.
7.3 Borehole Caliper Gage.-A
borehole device that is lowered down 8.1.1 Connect the dilatometer to
and then raised up the borehole and the manual pump with the two
gives a continuous log of the borehole hydraulic lines. Also connect the
diameter with depth. electrical cable leading from the
sonde to the volume transducer

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 USBR 6575-09

“Input” connector and the pressure avoid possible damage to the probe
transducer (figure 3). (sonde).

Note 12.-The hydraulic pump and 8.1.6 Use clean water to fill the
hydraulic module constitute a closed funnel.
circuit for the oil flow. As such, to
avoid potential damage to the 8.1.7 Change the position of the
hydraulic system, the user must small handle on the pump to the
ensure that all four connections to the deflation position Number 2 to
pump and to the dilatometer sonde are activate the pump to bring back the
properly made. dual piston to its fully retracted
position indicated by a constant
8.1.2 Remove the stainless steel reading. In doing so, water in the
conical end cap (A on figure 3) from funnel will be sucked into probe. To
the dilatometer probe (sonde). prevent air from entering, the water
must be maintained sufficiently high
8.1.3 Incline the whole in the funnel
dilatometer (sonde) at about
45 degrees, with the saturation plug at Note 14.-Again, to avoid damage to
its uppermost point. Turn the probe the probe (sonde), stop pumping
(sonde) until a small notch made at when a constant reading is obtained
the end of the steel core (C on on the readout unit or when a slight
figure 3) is in the upper position. pressure increase is seen on the
This notch, when in line with two deflation circuit pressure gage.
small holes made in the steel core,
allows the flow of water to cylinder 8.1.8 Place the small handle on
E. Unscrew and remove the saturation the pump in the inflation position
plug. (Number 1) and the pump is
activated. Any air remaining in the
8.1.4 Screw in a small funnel, probe will be expelled, and the
fitted with an elbow connector, in bubbles will be seen going up in the
place of the saturation plug. funnel. Continue this action until the
bubbling stops and the water starts
8.1.5 Activate the pump by rising in the funnel. At this stage,
placing the small handle on the repeat step 8.1.7. If, from the fully
manual pump in the inflation position retracted position (RRU reading), the
(Number 1). This will displace the downstream movement of the piston
dual piston up to the end of its does not expel air bubbles through the
maximum travel or when water funnel, saturation is complete.
appears in the funnel (assuming some
water was left in cylinder E). 8.1.9 Remove the funnel and
screw the saturation plug back on the
Note 13.-Maximum travel is steel core, taking care to use PTFE
reached when the volume display on tape on the plug’s threads. Screw the
the readout unit stops changing. stainless steel conical end cap back on
Discontinue pumping at this stage to the sonde.

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 USBR 6575-09

8.2 Calibration Procedure.- saturated (see section 8), place the

Calibrate the dilatometer according to probe horizontally on the ground.
section 9 prior to use after any Inflate and deflate the
maintenance or suspected damage to probe five times to flex the
the device that could have affected membrane, each time displacing the
any calibration values. dual-action piston to approximately
its full range.
9. Calibration and
Standardization 9.2.1.2 Bring the dual-action
piston to the completely retracted
9.1 Pressure Gages and position.
Transducer.-
Note 15.-This is indicated by the
9.1.1 Calibrate the pressure fully retracted position (RRU) reading
gages at frequent intervals (see USBR on the readout unit or when a slight
1040). pressure increase is seen on the
deflation side of the pressure gage.
9.1.2 Calibrate the pressure
transducer at frequent intervals (see 9.2.1.3 Inflate the probe from
USBR 1050). the deflated state in steps by injecting
water in increments of 50 cm3 (3 in3)
9.2 Dilatometer Probe.- from the water chamber (figure 3)
Calibrations of the dilatometer probe into the expandable dilatometer probe
require a pressure correction factor chamber. After each volume
(see section 9.2.1) and a volume increment, wait one minute, and then
correction factor (see section 9.2.2). read and record the corresponding
Calibration or service of the LVDT pressure increase.
may be required but is best left for the
manufacturer. 9.2.1.4 Plot the cumulative
volume vs pressure curve (figure 6).
Note 14.-The corresponding volume
per unit of the readout unit must be Note 16.-In most cases of rock
determined or as provided in the modulus testing, the pressure
manufacturer’s instruction manual. correction will have negligible
influence on the test results.
Note 15.-The inertia or pressure
correction curve must be established 9.2.2 Volume correction factor.-
for each new membrane mounted on The volume correction factor curve is
the dilatometer. shown on figure 7. Subtract from the
volume injected (shown on the
9.2.1 Pressure (Inertia) readout unit) the volume losses due to
Correction Factor.-Obtain the the intrinsic system expansion as
pressure correction curve (figure 6) as follows:
follows: 9.2.2.1 With the whole system
saturated, place the deflated probe in
9.2.1.1 With the whole system a calibration tube which can be any

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 USBR 6575-09

Figure 6.- Typical membrane resistance (inertia) plot

Figure 7.- Typical curve of correction of volume losses

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 USBR 6575-09

thick wall metallic tube with an Note 18.-Two deformation

interior diameter of 76 mm (3 in) that components contribute to the value of
meets any other requirements in a (figure 7):
9.2.2.2.
• Intrinsic volumetric expansion
Note 17.-The manufacturer supplied of the dilatometer system,
calibration tube is typically steel with known as c
a 76mm (3 in) internal diameter,
however other calibration tubes with • Small expansion undergone by
different stiffness properties and/or the calibration tube during
diameters may be needed for specific pressurization.
test situations such as testing soft rock
or in oversize boreholes. The expansion of the thick-wall
metallic tube is determined
9.2.2.2 Inflate the probe three theoretically and is expressed by the
or four times in a row up to its b parameter (see equation 2).
maximum working capacity of 30
MPa (4,350 lbf/in2) and deflate. This 9.2.2.7 The intrinsic volume
operation mechanically sets the correction factor, c, cm3/kPa
components of the dilatometer probe (in3/lbf/in2) is given by equation 1:
subjected to pressure.
c=a-b 1
9.2.2.3 Inflate the probe in
steps of 3.450 MPa (500 lbf/in2) to where:
the maximum working pressure of the
dilatometer. At each step of pressure,
a =correction factor, cm3/kPa
read and record the corresponding
(in3/lbf/in2) (figure 7) (a is the
volume displayed on the readout unit
slope of the linear portion of the
after one minute.
curve)
9.2.2.4 Deflate probe and
b =calibration cylinder expansion
repeat step 9.2.2.3 until a series of
parameter given by equation 2,
five calibrations is completed.
cm3/kPa (in3/lbf/in2)
9.2.2.5 For each calibration,
9.2.2.8 The b parameter is
calculate the injected volume for each
calculated with equation 2:
pressure step using the volumetric
calibration factor, k, specified for the
dilatometer. 2V[ r + e (1+vm)]
b= 2
Em . e
9.2.2.6 . The correction factor,
a, is calculated from the linear part of
the curve, and an average value of a is
determined from five volume
correction factor curves (figure 7). where:

17
 USBR 6575-09

V = volume taken by the dilatable either in plotted form or by

membrane of the probe when in construction of a physical model.
contact with the thick walled 10.1.2. A number of factors
metallic calibration tube, cm3 must be considered when selecting
(in3) the test site, including:

r = internal radius of the calibration • Spatial orientation and stress

tube, cm (in) intensity of the loads to be
transmitted to the rock mass
e = wall thickness of calibration by the proposed structure
tube, cm (in)
• Various types of material found
vm = Poisson's ratio of calibration tube in the rock mass and the
material relative volume and location
of each
Em = modulus of elasticity of
calibration tube material, MPa • Spatial orientation of rock
(lbf/in2) discontinuities, such as
bedding, foliation, jointing,
Note 19.-The volume correction etc., and their relationship to
factor, c, is in the equation used to the applied loads from the
calculate the modulus of deformation structure
of the rock (see section 13). A high
level of confidence in the calculated • Fracture density of the rock
modulus therefore depends on the mass
exactness of the c value and of its
representativeness of the actual 10.2 Test Sites Selection:
intrinsic deformability of the
dilatometer probe during the tests. 10.2.1 Select drill hole
This is particularly the case when locations, orientations, and depths by
rocks with a high stiffness are tested taking into account the anticipated
and the dilatometer will experience rock quality variations and depths of
small volumetric expansion. The user weathering, as well as the
is therefore encouraged to run at least requirements of the designs or
five volume calibration tests prior to structures for which the test data are
in situ testing. to be used.

10. Test Plan 10.2.2 Make sure that selected

sites are accessible to drill equipment
10.1 Pre-test Site Selection and that all safety and regulation
issues are identified and handled
10.1.1 Prior to selecting a test accordingly. Use USBR 6005 for
site location, compile and analyze all guidance.
available surface and subsurface
geological data. Prepare a three- 10.3 Drilling and Preparation:
dimensional portrayal of these data,

18
 USBR 6575-09

10.3.1 Drill test holes with the purpose of the exploration

utmost care to preserve their stability, program, and type of material
bearing in mind that during the encountered, as discussed in USBR
dilatometer tests, rock fragments, 6005 and 6010.
regardless of source, inadvertently
wedged between the probe and the 10.4.3 Cores shall be logged
drill hole wall can trap the dilatometer with special emphasis given to
permanently. fracture spacing and orientation, and
conditions of joint surfaces. Rock
Note 20.-If the boreholes need to be quality designation (RQD) should be
supported, the boreholes may be calculated from the obtained core
cemented or grouted and redrilled or samples (ASTM 6032).
cased to properly expose the in situ
rock in the test sections for 10.5 Selection of Test Locations.
dilatometer tests.
10.5.1 Within each drill
10.3.2 The preferred hole hole, space the tests either at equal
diameter is 0.5 to 3.0 mm (0.02 to intervals or at specified locations in
0.12 in) larger than the deflated pre-selected geological formations,
diameter of the probe. lithology, or beds. Generally, a
continuous log of deformability
10.3.3 Check the drill hole should be taken along sections of the
with a video camera or caliper log test hole pertinent to design. For
(and/or other borehole logging example, a 0.3-, 0.6-, or 1.5-meter (1-,
methods) to avoid placing the probe 2-, or 5-ft) test interval may be
where damage might be caused by specified depending on the test hole
open fissures, voids, or oversized length and the required resolution.
borehole diameter. If a drill hole
requires support, casing and/or 11. Precautions
cementing may be necessary.
11.1 Perform tests so as the
10.3.4 Make rock cores maximum working pressure is not
available on site for inspection by the exceeded. This is approximately 30
dilatometer testing staff, if they were MPa (4,350 lbf/in2) in a borehole of
not present during drilling. diameter 79.4 millimeters (3-1/8 in)
or 20 MPa (3,000 lbf/in2) in a
10.4 Core Samples: borehole of diameter 82.5 millimeters
(3-1/4 in).
10.4.1 Drill cores are to be
fully logged to record recovery and 11.2 Dilatometer tests are
the characteristics of the rock and recommended to be run in sections of
jointing as directed by the USBR boreholes which have diameters very
Geology Manual. close to 76 mm (3.0 in). Performance
of the dilatometer will then be
10.4.2 Provide core samples enhanced and the risk of damaging
with the curatorial care appropriate to the probe will be greatly reduced.

19
 USBR 6575-09

dilatometer into borehole until the top

11.3 Do not perform this test at of the drill string nears the drill hole
locations where the diameter of the collar. Secure the drill string if
hole exceeds 82.5 mm (3-1/4 in). Use needed with some sort of device such
a borehole caliper gage or any other as a holding dog or foot clamp. Do
borehole device to carefully measure not use securing device on any
the diameter of the borehole at the test portion of the sonde. Record location
locations prior to testing. of dilatometer at this initial stage of
insertion.
11.4 Before testing, check that all
equipment is performing as intended. 12.1.6 Attach additional drill
rods or casing as needed to the top of
12. Procedure the drill string to insert the probe to
the required test location. This can be
12.1 Dilatometer Test Setup: done by keeping track of sections
added to the drill string so that the
12.1.1 Make hydraulic and location of the test membrane is
electrical connections to the manual known with certainty. This location is
pump and readout unit and check that to be measured with an accuracy ±5
the whole system is working well by centimeters (±2 in) and recorded.
inflating and deflating the probe.
Check the battery charge (if battery is
being used for testing).
Note 21.-Tests are usually run from
12.1.2 Check the quality of the the bottom of the drill hole upwards
selected test location in the borehole to minimize the risks of the probe
using the caliper gage and /or other becoming stuck in the borehole. Use
borehole data or core samples, and of BW size casing is recommended to
adjust if required. insert and retract the dilatometer in
the borehole. This requires the hoses
12.1.3 Measure and record and cables to be fed through the
distance from center of test membrane annular space of each section of
to top of dilatometer assembly. casing. This provides the most
protection to the apparatus against
12.1.4 Depending on whether the getting stuck in the borehole.
test hole is vertical or inclined, hoist However, it is more awkward and
or manually position the pointed end slow to use. When borehole
of the sonde centered with the conditions are more favorable, small
borehole opening, and the long axis of diameter rods may be used to position
the dilatometer closely aligned with the device and the hoses and cables,
the borehole axis. Attach one or more taped tightly on the outside of those
sections of drill rod or casing if rods.
needed before positioning to facilitate
process. 12.2 Testing:

12.1.5 Carefully insert the 12.2.1 Pressurize and expand

20
 USBR 6575-09

the dilatometer membrane under a of loading and unloading are required

pressure just enough to ensure proper in most applications.
and adequate contact with the test
hole walls. This seating pressure is to 12.2.6 Release pressure,
remain as the minimum pressure volume and pressure readings may
throughout the test. Record the then be taken during unloading if
seating pressure, and if needed, wait specified.
for probe to reach temperature
equilibrium with the test location. Note 22.-Calculations and
interpretations of unloading data are
12.2.2 Increase the pressure in not covered by this designation.
8-10 approximately equal increments
to the maximum value. Smaller 12.2.7 Three cycles of loading
increments may be needed for very and unloading are required in most
soft rock. The maximum value shall applications, and would require
be as high as possible but no greater repeating steps 12.2 through 12.5.
than the safe working pressure of the
test equipment, taking into
consideration the smoothness and
diameter of drill hole at the test depth, 12.2.8 Plot a pressure-volume
plus any groundwater pressures. curve and determine its slope
(figure 7).
12.2.3 At each increment,
keep the pressure constant while 12.2.9 Release pressure and
taking readings of pressure and make sure membrane is fully retracted
corresponding volume. Record and withdraw or relocate the probe
volume versus time to give an for the next test interval, and repeat
indication of whether the rock steps 12.2.1 to 12.2.8.
behavior is time-dependent.
Alternatively, the same result can be 13. Calculations
achieved by keeping the volume of
the probe constant (without pumping) 13.1 Equation 3 for the modulus of
and recording the drop in pressure deformation is based on the
with time. application of a uniform radial
pressure on a cylindrical cavity in an
12.2.4 At the maximum test elastic and homogeneous medium.
pressure, keep the applied pressure Theoretically:
constant for at least 10 minutes or
longer if specified. Readings of
volume versus time at constant
pressure can be tabulated to determine 3
creep rates.
where:
12.2.5 Volume and pressure
readings may then be taken during ER =in situ modulus of rock mass
unloading if specified. Three cycles deformation, MPa (lbf/in2)

21
 USBR 6575-09

v = Poisson's ratio of rock Note 24.-Vo of 1950 cm3 (119 in3) is

based on a nominal inflatable length
r = radius of borehole, mm (in) of 457 mm (18 in) and a nominal
diameter of 73.7 mm (2.9 in). For a
p = pressure, kPa (lbf/in2) more precise value of Vo, measure the
inflatable length of the flexible
Δd=change in diameter, mm (in) membrane and the deflated diameter
of the dilatometer probe.
Note 23.-The calculations require a
value of Poisson's ratio. Laboratory 13.3 Applied Pressure in Probe:
determined Poisson's ratios may be
used because they do not significantly Using equations (5) or (6):
differ from those in the field.
Pb = 0.955 Pg + 5.97 Δh, kPa 5
13.2 The equation for modulus of
deformation, E, using equation 3 and or English units
modifying it for the dilatometer, is:
Pb = 0.955 Pg + 0.264 Δh, lbf/in2 6
xxx
where:
where:
⎛⎜ 1 ⎞⎟
3
Vo =at rest volume of probe cm (in ) 3 E = 2(1 + v) (V o + V m) ⎜ ⎟ 24
ΔV
⎜ - c⎟
= 1950 cm3 (119 in3) ⎜⎝(Pb2 - Pb1) ⎟⎠

Vm =average of the injected volume

cm3 (in3) = 0.5 (V1 + V2) Pb = applied pressure in probe, kPa
(lbf/in2)
ΔV =change in volume, cm3 (in3) = V2
- V1 Pg = pressure read at pressure gage on
the hydraulic pump, kPa
V2 or V1 =volume at time 2 or time 1, (lbf/in2)
cm3 (in3)
Δh = difference in elevation between
Pb2 - Pb1 = difference in applied the manual pump and the
pressure in probe at center of the dilatometer
time 2 and time 1, (kPa) sonde, m (ft)

Time 1 = time at start of test 13.4 Example of Rock Modulus

Calculation for Loading Cycle.
Time 2 = time when readings were
taken Given:
• Test conducted in horizontal
C = volume correction factor, hole, therefore ∆h = 0
cm3/kPa (in3/lbf/in2)

22
 USBR 6575-09

• Pb = 0.955 Pg units x 0.0185 cm3/unit

of readout}
• Rock Poisson's ratio, v = 0.20
V2 =312.4 cm3, i.e., {(RRU-U2)
• Volume calibration factor, k = units x 0.0185 cm3/unit
0.0185 cm3/unit of readout of readout}
unit (Note: this sample used
different probe; Reclamation’s Vm = 0.5 (V1 + V2) = 282.6 cm3
probe has k = 0.1774
cm3/unit) ΔV = V2 - V1 = 59.6 cm3

• At rest volume of probe: Vo = 2) Applied Pressures in the Probe:

1,950 cm3
Pb1 =0.955 x 2,000 lbf/in2 =
• Thick wall steel tube 13,167 kPa (1,910
calibration: lbf/in2)

a = 1.19 x 10-3 cm3/kPa Pb2 =0.955 x 3,000 lbf/in2 =

(figure 7) 19,751 kPa (2,865
lbf/in2)
b = 0.087 x 10-3 cm3/kPa
(see equation 2) ΔPb = Pb2 - Pb1 = 6,584 kPa (955
lbf/in2)
• Volume correction factor, c:
3) Modulus (ER) substituting the
-3 3
c = a - b = 1.103 x 10 cm /kPa values above into equation 4 and
Section 13.2):
Pressure range selected for
modulus calculation:
ER = 667.92 MPa (96,880 lbf/in2) 7
Pg1 = 13,788 kPa (2,000 lbf/in2)
14. Report
Pg2 = 20,682 kPa (3,000 lbf/in2)
14.1 The purpose of this section is
Corresponding volume units to establish the minimum
units read on readout box: requirements for a complete and
usable report. Further details may be
RRU = + 19,000 units added as appropriate, and the order of
U1 = + 5,335 units items may be changed as necessary.
U2 = + 2,114 units An applications section compatible
with the format described below
Calculations: should be included.

1) Injected Volumes: 14.2 Introductory Section of the

Report.-The introductory section is
V1 =252.8 cm3, i.e., {(RRU-Ui) intended to present the scope and

23
 USBR 6575-09

purpose of the testing program and 14.3.3 Variations.-If the actual

the characteristics of the material equipment or procedure varies from
tested. The introductory section the requirements contained in this test
includes: method, note each variation and the
reasons for it. Also discuss the effect
14.2.1 Test Locations.-Include of the variation upon the test results.
the locations of the test boreholes and
locations; preferably including a plan 14.4 Theoretical Background:
map.
14.4.1 Data Reduction
14.2.2 Test Rationale.-Discuss Equations.-All equations used to
the reasons for selecting the borehole reduce the data should be clearly
orientation and test locations. presented and fully defined. Note any
assumptions inherent in the equations
14.2.3 Limitations of the or limitations in their applications.
Testing Program.-Discuss the areas Discuss the effect on the results.
of interest which are not covered by
the testing program and the 14.4.2 Site-Specific Influences:
limitations of the data within the areas
of application in general terms. 14.4.2.1 Assumptions.-Discuss
in detail the differences between
14.2.4 Description of the Test actual test site conditions and
Site Geology.-Include a complete conditions assumed in the data
geological description of the test site reduction equations. Estimate the
including core logs, core photos of effects of such differences on
core, photos of prepared test areas, if numerical results as much as feasible.
any; a macroscopic description of the
rock types; description of structural 14.4.2.2 Correction Factors.-
features that might affect the test; and Fully explain and document any
diagrams of the geology of the test correction factors or correction
area and locations. methods applied to the data.

14.3 Test Method Section: 14.5 Results:

14.3.1 Equipment and 14.5.1 Individual Results

Apparatus.-Detailed list of the Table.-Present a table listing the date,
equipment actually used for the test, test personnel, test number, rock
including the drilling equipment, and material/structure, and average
the name, model number, and basic modulus values for each test location.
specifications of each major piece of Take care to identify the depth
equipment. interval in the rock mass, stress range
for each modulus, and type of
14.3.2 Procedure.-Detailed modulus value.
steps of the procedure actually used
for the test. 14.5.2 Summary Table.-
Present a summary table, including

24
 USBR 6575-09

the characteristics of the rock too costly to produce multiple

materials and the pressure range and specimens which have uniform
which load cycle over which the physical properties. The precision
modulus values were calculated. and bias cannot be determined
because specimens that would yield
14.5.3 Graphic Presentations.- the same test results cannot be tested.
Present a typical average deflection
curve for each rock material.

14.5.4 Others.-The following

other types of analyses and
presentations may be included as
appropriate:

14.5.4.1 Define the relationship

between modulus and applied stress.

14.5.4.2 Discuss modulus

dependence on geology.

14.5.4.3 Present relevant

histograms and/or statistics of results,
if applicable.

14.5.4.4 Compare with

laboratory modulus values or the
results of other in situ modulus tests.

14.5.4.5 Compare results to

other rock types or previous studies.

14.6 Appended Data.-An appendix

is recommended and should include:

14.6.1 A completed test data

form for each test.

14.6.2 Plots of deformation

versus pressure for each test interval
similar to figure 8.

15. Precision and Bias

15.1 Precision.-Because of the

nature of rock materials tested by this
test method, it is either not feasible or

25
 USBR 6575-09

Figure 8. - Plots of pressure versus injected volume

26