ENGINEERING

GEOLOGY
FIELD
MANUAL
SECOND EDITION
VOLUME II
2001

U.S. Department of the Interior

Bureau of Reclamation

The Mission of the Department of the Interior is to protect

and provide access to our Nations natural and cultural
heritage and honor our trust responsibilities to tribes.
The Mission of the Bureau of Reclamation is to manage,
develop, and protect water and related resources in an
environmentally and economically sound manner in the
interest of the American public.

Information contained in this manual regarding

commercial products or firms may not be used for
advertising or promotional purposes and is not an
endorsement of any product or firm by the Bureau of
Reclamation.
The information contained in this manual was developed
for the Bureau of Reclamation; no warranty as to the
accuracy, usefulness, or completeness is expressed or
implied.

ii

Acknowledgments
for Second Edition
Volume 2
The original compilation and preparation of this manual
involved many engineering geologists, geophysicists, and
engineers within Reclamation. Their input is greatly appreciated. This second edition incorporates comments on the
first edition and technological changes since the first edition
was prepared approximately 13 years ago. Without the comments and input from the Denver, Regional, and Area
Offices, the revision would not have happened. Special
thanks to Sam Bartlett for his support and input throughout
the preparation of the second edition and to James Krulik
who saw to the completion of this edition.
Although there are too many people to acknowledge individually who contributed to the revisions and the second edition,
Jack Cunningham, Robert Bianchi, Jeff Farrar, David
Gillette, Sandy Kunzer, Richard Markiewicz, Ronald
Pearson, Peter Rohrer, Ulrich Schimschal, and Andy Viksne
made especially significant contributions. Mark McKeown
made notable contributions, wrote several new chapters, and
edited the second edition.
Continued recognition is given to Jerry S. Dodd who initiated
the manual; Jerrys successor, Newcomb Bennett, who kept
the manual moving; and to Steve D. Markwell, who saw the
first edition completed. We extend our thanks and appreciation to Louis R. Frei, who helped establish and document
many geological standards of practice; to Richard H. Throner,
who wrote much of the original manual and assembled and
served on committees for preparation and review; to Sam R.
Bartlett, who compiled and printed the early loose leaf version of the manual; and to Mel Hill, who completed the publication of the first edition. To the Regional Geologists and
their staffs and the many geotechnical engineers who offered
comments incorporated into the manual, we extend our
thanks and appreciation for their work as well. The manual
would not be complete without the drawings and figures; to
the engineering and physical science technicians we extend
our gratitude and thanks. We further acknowledge Robert
Rood and Patty Alexander, the technical writers who assisted
in the editing and helped prepare the manual for printing.

iii

FOREWORD
TO THE SECOND EDITION
VOLUME 2

Approximately 13 years have gone by since the first

edition of the manual was published, and technology,
methodology, and missions have changed significantly.
This second edition incorporates many modifications and
additions. The Global Positioning System (GPS) has
revolutionized how we survey and locate ourselves in the
field, computers are used extensively to collect and
evaluate data, and computer aided modeling, design, and
drafting are almost universal. Reclamations current mission places greater emphasis on maintenance and safety
of infrastructure, dam safety analyses and modifications,
and water resource management than on design and
construction of new hydraulic structures. Techniques for
these activities are reflected in this edition.
A few of this editions most significant changes to the
manual are the addition of a section on water testing for
grouting, an expanded chapter on permeability testing, a
chapter on the global positioning system, a significantly
modified chapter on rip rap, a chapter on foundation
preparation, treatment, and cleanup, a chapter on waxing, preserving, and shipping samples, and an index to
facilitate finding relevant information. Many other
suggested revisions and improvements collected since the
manual was first published also are incorporated.
Volume I contains material commonly needed in the field,
and Volume II includes reference and supplementary
information and materials.
As in the first edition, the Engineering Geology Field
Manual presents the practices for the collection of geologic
data obtained by the Bureau of Reclamation. The manual
establishes common guidelines, procedures, and concepts
for the collection, evaluation, and presentation of geologic
information. The analysis of geologic conditions, the

preparation of designs and specifications, and effective

monitoring of construction require consistent, comprehensive, and timely geologic information. The use of
these guidelines by all Reclamation engineering geologists
collecting, documenting, evaluating, and presenting geological and geotechnical data promotes consistency, helps
assure that the required evaluations and data are complete, and promotes integration and coordination of geological and engineering activities.
The Engineering Geology Field Manual forms the basis for
the mutually beneficial exchange of ideas by geologists
and engineers. Experienced geologists will find useful
reminders, new procedures, and special techniques, while
less experienced engineering geologists and those from
other disciplines can use the manual to expand their
familiarity with geology as practiced in the geotechnical
field.
Review and comments on the manual are encouraged, and
if you have comments or suggested additions, please
forward them to the Engineering Geology Group at
Reclamations Technical Service Center.
Richard H. Throner
Chief, Geotechnical
Services Division

vi

CONTENTS

Page

Chapter 13 Surface Geophysical

Investigations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seismic Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seismic Refraction Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seismic Reflection Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shear Wave Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Surface Wave Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vibration Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical Resistivity Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical Resistivity Profiling Surveys . .
Electrical Resistivity Sounding Surveys . .
Electrical Resistivity Dipole-Dipole
Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electromagnetic Conductivity Surveys . . . . .
Electromagnetic Conductivity
Profiling Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electromagnetic Conductivity
Sounding Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ground Penetrating Radar Surveys . . . . . . .
Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Self-Potential Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Magnetic Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gravity Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1
1
3
3
4
5
6
9
9
10
11
11
13
13
14
14
14
15
15
15
16
17
17
17
18
18
18
19
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FIELD MANUAL
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Chapter 14 Borehole Geophysical

and Wireline Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric Logging Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Spontaneous Potential (SP) Log . . . . . . . .
Single-Point Resistance Log . . . . . . . . . . .
Multiple Electrode Array Log . . . . . . . . . .
Microlog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Induction Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nuclear Radiation Logging Techniques . . . .
Gamma Ray (Natural Gamma) Log . . . . .
Natural Gamma Spectral Log . . . . . . . . . .
Density or Gamma-Gamma Log . . . . . . . .
Neutron Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Neutrino Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acoustic/Seismic Logging Techniques . . . . . .
Acoustic Velocity Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acoustic Borehole Imaging Log . . . . . . . .
Cross-Hole Seismic Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seismic Tomography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Borehole Optical Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Borehole Image Processing
System (BIPS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other Wireline Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Borehole Caliper Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Directional Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Borehole Fluid Temperature Log . . . . . . . .
Borehole Gravity Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Magnetic Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Flowmeter Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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37
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41
42
46
47
47
49
50
51
52
55
56
57
61
64
66
67
73
73
74
75
77
78
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81
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CONTENTS
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Chapter 15 Remote Sensing Techniques . .

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Imaging Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Resolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thermal Infrared Imagery . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Multispectral Scanner Imagery . . . . . . . . . .
Airborne Imaging Spectroscopy . . . . . . . . . . .
Satellite Multispectral Scanner Imagery . . .
Radar Imagery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Side Scan Sonar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Single- and Multi-Beam Sonar . . . . . . . . . . .
Applications to Engineering Geology . . . . . .
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

83
83
83
84
85
86
86
87
89
90
91
91
92
93

Chapter 16 Water Testing for Grouting . . .

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Geologic Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stepped Pressure Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Back Pressures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Water Takes Relative to Grout Takes . . . . . .
Depth of Grouting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

95
95
99
99
100
100
104
105
105
106
106

Chapter 17 Water Testing and

Permeability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmissivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Porosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

107
107
107
108

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FIELD MANUAL
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Chapter 17 Water Testing and

Permeability (continued)
General (continued)
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Geologic Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selecting the Appropriate Test . . . . . . . . .
Stable Boreholes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unstable Boreholes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Permeability Testing in Rock . . . . . . . . . .
Pressure Permeability Tests in Stable Rock .
Methods of Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning Test Sections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Length of Test Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Size of Rod or Pipe to Use in Tests . . . . . .
Pumping Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Swivels for Use in Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Location of Pressure Gauges . . . . . . . . . . .
Water Meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Length of Time for Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pressures Used in Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Arrangement of Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pressure Permeability Tests . . . . . . . . . . .
Multiple Pressure Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gravity Permeability Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning and Developing Test Sections . .
Measurement of Water Levels Through
Protective Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pumping Equipment and Controls . . . . . .
Water Meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Length of Time for Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Arrangement of Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gravity Permeability Test - Method 1 . . . .

108
109
111
112
112
113
118
119
119
120
121
121
126
126
126
127
127
128
128
136
139
140
140
140
141
141
142
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CONTENTS
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Chapter 17 Water Testing and

Permeability (continued)
Gravity Permeability Tests (continued)
Gravity Permeability Test - Method 2 . . . .
Gravity Permeability Test - Method 3 . . . .
Gravity Permeability Test - Method 4 . . . .
Falling Head Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tests Below the Static Water Level . . . . . .
Tests Above the Water Table . . . . . . . . . . .
Slug Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selecting the Slug Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conducting the Slug Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hvorslev Slug Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bouwer Slug Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Piezometer Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

147
153
157
162
162
164
166
166
167
167
168
174
175
176
177
178
182

Chapter 18 Riprap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weight and Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gradation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Durability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Quantity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

183
183
188
188
189
191
192
194
195
196

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Chapter 18 Riprap (continued)

Investigation Stages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reconnaissance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Feasibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sampling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shipping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Waste in Riprap Production . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gradation Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Production Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

197
198
198
199
200
200
202
203
203
205
206
206

Chapter 19 Blast Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Properties and Geology of the Rock Mass .
Characterizing the Rock Mass . . . . . . . . . .
Rock Density and Hardness . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voids and Zones of Weakness . . . . . . . . . .
Jointing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bedding/Foliation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Surface Blasting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Blast Hole Diameter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Blast Patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Burden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Subdrilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Collar Distance (Stemming) . . . . . . . . . . . .
Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hole Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Delays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Powder Factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

209
209
209
210
211
211
213
215
218
218
223
225
228
229
231
233
235
237

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Chapter 19 Blast Design (continued)

Surface Blasting (continued)
Secondary Blasting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underground Blasting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Opening Cuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Blasting Rounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Delays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Powder Factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Controlled Blasting Techniques . . . . . . . . . .
Line Drilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Presplitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Smooth Blasting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cushion Blasting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Riprap Blasting Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 20 Water Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exploration Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Design Data Requirements, Responsibilities,
and Methods of Collection and
Presentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Surface Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Subsurface Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Presentation of Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Groundwater Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Groundwater Monitoring Locations . . . . .
Groundwater Monitoring
Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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250
251
253
254
255
257
259
261
264
264
299
299
304

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Chapter 20 Water Control (continued)

Monitoring (continued)
Monitoring Discharges From
Dewatering Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Monitoring Water and Ground Surfaces
and Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Performance Evaluation During
Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Final Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 21 Foundation Preparation,
Treatment, and Cleanup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Earthfill Dams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Soil Foundations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rock Foundations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Concrete Arch Dams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dental Treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Protection Against Piping . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foundation Irregularities . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Concrete Gravity Dams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dental Treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Protection Against Piping . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foundation Irregularities . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleanup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Water Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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314
316
318
318
318

321
321
321
325
328
339
339
340
342
342
343
344
344
346
346
347
348
348
349

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Chapter 22 Penetration Testing . . . . . . . . .

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Standard Penetration Testing . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment and Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . .
Information Obtainable by SPT . . . . . . . .
Testing Cohesionless Soils . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drilling Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fluid Rotary Drilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hollow-Stem Augers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rotary Casing Advancers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Summary of Drilling Effects . . . . . . . . . . .
Procedure Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hammer Blow Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Limiting Blow Counts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Penetration per Blow or Blows
per 0.1 Foot (3 cm) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment and Mechanical Variables . . . . .
Sampler Barrel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sampler Shoe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample Retainers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sampler Liners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sampler Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sampler Vent Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hammers, Anvils, Rods, and Energy
Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety Hammers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Donut Hammers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rope and Cathead Operations . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic Hammers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Spooling Winch Hammers . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drill Rods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xv

351
351
351
351
351
356
359
361
361
364
369
370
371
371
375
375
376
376
377
377
378
379
379
379
380
381
381
382
383
384

FIELD MANUAL
Page

Chapter 22 Penetration Testing (continued)

Equipment and Mechanical Variables
(continued)
Drill Rod Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How Good is the SPT Test . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Becker-Hammer Penetration Testing for
Gravelly Soils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Role of BPT in Exploration . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Harder-Seed Method of
BPT Interpretation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Testing for the Harder-Seed Method of
Interpretation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sy Method of BPT Interpretation . . . . . . .
Testing for the Sy Method of
Interpretation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Discussion of Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contracting for Becker Drilling Services .
Cone Penetration Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Test History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Test Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Advantages and Disadvantages . . . . . . . . .
Data Obtainable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Economics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 23 Handling and Transporting
Rock and Soil Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xvi

384
385
385
387
387
388
389
390
391
392
393
393
394
395
395
397
398
400
407
407

409
409
411

CONTENTS
Page

Chapter 23 Handling and Transporting Rock

and Soil Samples (continued)
Storage Containers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 420
Shipping Containers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 421
Core Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 422
Identification of Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 423
Transportation Requirements and
Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 424
Upright Handling and Shipping of
Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 426
Storage Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 427
Recommended Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 427
Chapter 24 Care, Retention, and Disposal
of Drill Core, Soil, and Rock Samples . . . . .
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Location of Storage Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage During Investigations . . . . . . . . . .
Storage During Construction . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage During Operation and
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conditions of Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Length of Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proposed Structures or Projects . . . . . . . . .
Design Investigations and Completed
Structures or Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disposal of Core and Samples . . . . . . . . . .
Retention of Rock Core and Samples . . . . . .
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xvii

431
431
432
433
433
434
434
435
435
436
437
438
438

FIELD MANUAL
Page

Chapter 25 Global Positioning System . . .

System Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GPS System Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GPS Basic Operating Concepts . . . . . . . . .
Navigation (NAV) Message . . . . . . . . . . . .
GPS Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dilution of Precision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Satellite Position and Clock Errors . . . . . .
Atmospheric Delay of Satellite Signals . . .
Selective Availability and Anti-Spoofing .
GPS Signal Obstruction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Multipath Interference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Differential GPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Quality of Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Satellite Geometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ideal Satellite Constellation . . . . . . . . . . .
DOP Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Quality Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
User Measurement Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . .
User Equivalent Range Error . . . . . . . . . .
Space and Control Segment Errors . . . . . .
Wide Area GPS Enhancement . . . . . . . . . .
Atmospheric Errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
User Equipment Errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Error Source Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Satellite Geometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Datums and Coordinate Systems . . . . . . .

xviii

439
439
439
440
442
444
444
445
445
446
447
449
449
450
450
450
450
452
456
457
458
460
460
461
461
462
462
463

CONTENTS
APPENDICES
Appendix

Index

Page

Abbreviations and Acronyms

Commonly Used in Bureau of
Reclamation Engineering
Geology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

465

Nomograph Relating the Density

of an Explosive in G/cc, the
Diameter of the Explosive in Inches,
and the Pounds of Explosive per
Lineal Foot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

471

Chart Showing Ripability

Versus Seismic Velocity for a
D11N Bulldozer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

473

Charts Showing Weight of

Materials Required for Typical
Laboratory Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

475

Useful Conversion Factors

Metric and English Units
(Inch-Pound) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

489

.............................

491

xix

FIELD MANUAL
TABLES
Table

13-1

13-2
13-3
17-1

18-1
19-1
19-2
19-3
19-4
19-5
19-6
22-1
22-2
23-1
25-1
25-2
25-3
25-4
25-5

Page

Determining moduli and ratios for

typical velocities of earth materials
from refraction surveys . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
Typical velocities of earth materials . . .
7
Representative values of resistivity . . . .
10
A glossary of abbreviations and
definitions used in permeability
calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Rock types and typical usable
quantities of riprap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Typical rocks, densities, and unit
weights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Approximate burden charge diameter
ratios for bench blasting . . . . . . . . . . . 227
Typical powder factors for surface
blasting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
Parameters for presplitting . . . . . . . . . . 258
Parameters for smooth blasting . . . . . . . 258
Parameters for cushion blasting . . . . . . 262
Penetration resistance and soil
properties based on the SPT . . . . . . . . 357
Estimated variability of SPT N values . 372
Rock- and soil-sample categories for
handling and transportation . . . . . . . 412
Expected values of dilution of precision . 451
FOM related to EPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 455
TFOM related to ETE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 456
Typical GPS receiver error budget . . . . . 457
URA index and values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 459

xx

CONTENTS
FIGURES
Figure

13-1
13-2
13-3
14-1
14-2
14-3
14-4
14-5
14-6
14-7
14-8
14-9
14-10
14-11
14-12
14-13
14-14

14-15
14-16
14-17

Page

Simplified diagram of a seismic

refraction test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Types of surface waves . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dipole resistivity array . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Spontaneous potential survey
elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric log showing SP and resistivity
in different beds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Single-point resistivity array . . . . . . . . .
Multiple-electrode resistivity arrays . . .
Focused current, or guard, resistivity
array . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Microlog resistivity logging device . . . . .
Gamma-gamma logging sonde . . . . . . . .
Nuetron logging sonde . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Typical curve responses for nuclear
radiation logs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Elements of a simple wireline acoustic
velocity device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acoustic log presentations . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample of intensity modulated
acoustic log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acoustic borehole imaging system . . . . .
Traces of planar discontinuities
intercepting the borehole (left) as
they appear on the acoustic borehole
imaging record (right) . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cross-hole seismic test . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Borehole television logging system . . . .
Borehole film camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xxi

4
8
12
39
40
42
44
46
48
51
53
54
58
59
60
62

63
65
68
70

FIELD MANUAL
FIGURES (continued)
Figure

Page

14-18 Projection of borehole wall image into

the film plane from the conical mirror
of the borehole film camera . . . . . . . .
14-19 Log of six-arm mechanical caliper . . . . .
14-20 Elements of borehole gravity logging . . .
16-1 Bar chart showing relationship of
test pressure and Lugeons in
laminar flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16-2 Bar chart showing relationship
of test pressure and Lugeons in
turbulent flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16-3 Bar chart showing relationship
of test pressure and Lugeons when
fractures are washing out . . . . . . . . . .
16-4 Bar chart showing relationship
of test pressure and Lugeons when
fractures are filling or swelling . . . . .
16-5 Bar chart showing relationship
of test pressure and Lugeons
when rock is hydrofractured or
joints are jacked open . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16-6 Continuously recorded plot of
pressure and flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17-1 Head loss in a 10-foot (3-m) section of
AX (1.185-inch- [30.1-mm-] inside
diameter [ID] drill rod . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17-2 Head loss in a 10-foot (3-m) section of
BX (1.655-inch [42.0-mm] ID)
drill rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xxii

72
76
79

101

101

102

102

103
104

122

123

CONTENTS
FIGURES (continued)
Figure

17-3

17-4
17-5

17-6
17-7

17-8

17-9
17-10
17-11
17-12
17-13
17-14
17-15

Page

Head loss in a 10-foot (3-m) section of

NX (2.155-inch [54.7-mm] ID)
drill rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Head loss in a 10-foot (3-m) section of
1-inch [32-mm] ID) steel pipe . . . . .
Permeability test for use in saturated
or unsaturated consolidated rock and
well indurated soils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Location of zone 1 lower boundary for
use in unsaturated materials . . . . . . .
Conductivity coefficients for
permeability determination in
unsaturated materials with
partially penetrating cylindrical
test wells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conductivity coefficients for semispherical flow in saturated materials
through partially penetrating
cylindrical test wells . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Plots of simulated, multiple pressure
permeability tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gravity permeability test (Method 1) . .
Gravity permeability test (Method 2) . .
Gravity permeability test (Method 3) . .
Gravity permeability test (Method 4) . .
Plot of h2 versus d for gravity
permeability test (Method 4) . . . . . . .
Hvorslev piezometer test . . . . . . . . . . . .

xxiii

124
125

129
131

133

134
138
145
149
154
159
160
168

FIELD MANUAL
FIGURES (continued)
Figure

Page

17-16a Shape factors for computing

permeability from variable head
tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17-16b Shape factor coefficient Fs . . . . . . . . . . .
17-17 Slug test on partially penetrating,
screened well in unconfined aquifer
with gravel pack and developed zone
around screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17-18 Dimensionless parameters A, B, and C
as a function of R/re (F for calculation
of ln [de/re]) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17-19 Data and computation sheet for
piezometer permeability test . . . . . . .
17-20 Chart for determining Ca if upward
pressure exists in the test zone . . . . .
17-21 Sample calculation for the piezometer
test with upward pressure in the
test zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18-1 Riprap properly placed on bedding . . . .
18-2 Improperly designed, obtained,
and placed riprap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18-3 Hand-placed riprap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18-4 Dumped riprap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18-5 Tabular rock fragment . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18-6 Stationary grizzly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18-7 Rock rake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19-1 Effect of jointing on the stability of an
excavation (plan view) . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19-2 Tight and open corners caused by
jointing (plan view) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xxiv

169
171

173

175
179
180

181
183
185
186
187
190
193
193
214
215

CONTENTS
FIGURES (continued)
Figure

19-3
19-4
19-5
19-6
19-7
19-8

19-9
19-10
19-11

19-12
19-13

19-14

Page

Stemming through weak material and

open beds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Two methods of breaking a hard
collar zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The effect of large and small blast
holes on unit costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The effects of jointing on selection of
blast hole size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Three basic types of drill patterns . . . . .
Corner cut staggered pattern with
simultaneous initiation within rows
(blast hole spacing, S, is twice the
burden, B) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-Echelon blast round (true spacing, S,
is twice the true burden, B) . . . . . . . .
Isometric view of a bench blast . . . . . . .
Comparison of a 12-inch- (300-mm)
diameter blast hole (stiff burden) on
the left with a 6-inch- (150-mm)
diameter blast hole (flexible burden)
on the right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effects of too small and too large
spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Staggered blast pattern with alternate
delays (blast hole spacing, S, is
1.4 times the burden, B) . . . . . . . . . . .
Staggered blast pattern with
progressive delays (blast hole
spacing, S, is 1.4 times the
burden, B) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xxv

216
217
219
221
223

224
224
225

228
232

233

234

FIELD MANUAL
FIGURES (continued)
Figure

Page

19-15 The effect of inadequate delays

between rows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19-16 Types of opening cuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19-17 Six designs for parallel hole cuts . . . . . .
19-18 Blast round for soft rock using sawed
kerf (numbers on loaded holes show
delay in milliseconds) . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19-19 Nomenclature for blast holes in a
heading round . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19-20 Angled cut blast rounds . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19-21 Parallel hole cut blast rounds . . . . . . . .
19-22 Fragmentation and shape of muckpile
as a function of type of cut . . . . . . . . .
19-23 Fragmentation and shape of muckpile
as a function of delay . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19-24 Typical burn cut blast round delay
pattern (numbers on loaded holes
show delay in milliseconds) . . . . . . . .
19-25 Typical V-cut blast round delay
pattern (numbers on loaded holes
show delay in milliseconds) . . . . . . . .
19-26 Shape of muckpile as a function of
firing order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19-27 Typical presplit blast hole loading . . . . .
19-28 Typical smooth blasting pattern
(Burden, B, is larger than
spacing, S. Numbers on loaded
holes show delay in milliseconds . . . .
19-29 Cushion blasting techniques . . . . . . . . .

xxvi

237
240
245

247
248
248
249
250
251

252

252
253
256

259
260

CONTENTS
FIGURES (continued)
Figure

20-1
20-2
20-3
21-1
22-1
22-2
22-3
22-4
22-5
22-6
22-7
22-8
22-9
22-10

22-11

22-12
22-13
23-1

Page

Limits of dewatering methods for

different materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aquifer test, plan, and sections
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . follows page
Aquifer test data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Example foundation treatment details
from specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ASTM and Reclamation SPT sampler
requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety hammer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Donut hammer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Example of rod type and wireline type
hollow-stem augers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Results of SPT with six different
drillsASCE Seattle study . . . . . . . .
Mechanical cone penetrometers . . . . . . .
Typical electrical cone penetrometers . .
Example CPT data plot . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chart for estimating the soil
behavior type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chart for estimating the soil
behavior type and the coefficient
of permeability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Relationships between cone tip
resistance, relative density, and
effective vertical stress . . . . . . . . . . . .
Empirical cone factor, Nk, for clays . . . .
Comparison of various cyclic resistance
ratio (CRR) curves and field data . . . .
Properly boxed and labeled core . . . . . . .

xxvii

301
310
310
324
352
354
355
366
386
396
396
401
402

403

404
405
406
413

FIELD MANUAL
FIGURES (continued)
Figure

23-2

23-3
25-1
25-2

Page

Core storage area with boxes neatly

arranged and separated by spacers
for ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Example core box construction . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . follows page
Satellite signal structure . . . . . . . . . . . .
Satellite ranging intersections . . . . . . . .

xxviii

414
422
441
443