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Soil and Material Testing.

Soil and Material Testing Lab in Northern California

Equipment in a soil and material testing lab

Certified Laboratory for Thorough Soil and Material Testing in Northern California.

RGH Consultants has a laboratory that offers the most relevant, thorough testing of materials in the area. It contains the tools and equipment necessary for soil and material testing used on projects ranging from public to commercial and residential.
 
The laboratory has its equipment maintained and inspected on a regular basis and is adherent to various quality management systems which are verified by accrediting agencies such as AASHTO Re:source and Caltrans. Other accreditations include the Cement and Concrete Reference Laboratory, the Division of the State Architect, and the US Army Corps of Engineers, ensuring that the laboratory is certified to work on projects that will be used by the public, including public schools. In addition, laboratory technicians maintain individual certifications from agencies such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies, American Concrete Institute, and Caltrans, to ensure compliance with the quality management systems and individual tests for which the lab is accredited.

Construction Materials and Soil Testing.

Construction Materials Testing - During construction, materials testing is a vital process that helps ensure a project's success. Testing of materials such as asphalt concrete can reveal information about gradation (sieve analysis), binder content, maximum density, air voids, and stability that are integral to the construction process. Testing will let the project manager know if the asphalt concrete is in compliance with the supplier's mix design and project specifications.


Conformance of quarried materials can also be determined by laboratory testing. Tests such as gradation, durability, sand equivalent, R-Value, and specific gravity will provide the necessary information to ensure a given quarried product meets Caltrans or project specification requirements.


Soil Testing - Soil testing is an important part of the building process that must be done before any construction takes place. It helps engineers make informed decisions and design choices regarding recommendations for the soil foundations of a building. Our staff has more than 40 years of experience combined; providing them with expert knowledge of Northern California soils, quarried products, and asphalt concrete. Soil testing services include:


  • Maximum dry density & optimum water content (ASTM D1557 & D698)
  • Test maximum wet density (CTM 216)
  • Sieve/Hydrometer analysis (ASTM D422)
  • Bouyoucos hydrometer (USDA Methodology)
  • Plasticity index - Atterberg limits (ASTM D4318)
  • Expansion index (ASTM D4829)
  • Consolidation (ASTM D2435)
  • Soil specific gravity (ASTM D854) 
  • Moisture density - Unit weight (ASTM D7263)
  • Unconfined compressive strength (ASTM D2166)
  • Triaxial compression test - TXUU (ASTM D2850)
  • Lime stability (ASTM D6276)


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Why Work With RGH Consultants?

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Over 25 years of experience.

Advanced exploration capability.

Advanced geotechnical laboratory testing capability.

Proven geotechnical engineering experts.

Extensive knowledge of the local construction materials.

AASHTO accredited laboratory.

Comprehensive Geologic Soil and Construction Materials Testing Services at RGH Consultants' Laboratory.

At RGH Consultants, our Soil and Material Testing Lab stands as a cornerstone of our commitment to quality and precision in the construction industry. Located in Northern California, our laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art tools and technology to perform a wide range of testing services on materials used in public, commercial, and residential projects.


Construction materials testing is a crucial aspect of our laboratory services. This process involves a detailed examination of various materials used in construction to ensure their quality, durability, and suitability for specific projects. Our lab conducts comprehensive tests on materials like concrete, asphalt, steel, and others to assess properties such as strength, elasticity, and composition. These tests help in determining the material's behavior under different conditions, ensuring that only the most reliable and suitable materials are used in construction projects.


For instance, in testing concrete, we analyze its compressive strength, slump, air content, and mix proportions. Similarly, for steel, we examine its tensile strength, bendability, and chemical composition. Such detailed analysis aids in preventing future structural failures and contributes to the longevity and safety of constructed facilities.


Geologic soil testing is another vital service offered by our laboratory. Understanding soil properties is essential for any construction project, as it influences the design, stability, and safety of the structure. Our experienced team conducts various soil tests such as compaction, permeability, shear strength, and bearing capacity. These tests help in identifying the soil type, its behavior under load, and suitability for construction. We also provide specialized soil analysis like contaminant detection and environmental impact assessments, crucial for sustainable and responsible construction practices.


At RGH Consultants, we prioritize our clients' needs and project requirements. Our laboratory services are designed to be flexible, catering to the unique demands of each project. We work closely with our clients, providing them with detailed reports and expert recommendations based on our testing results. This collaborative approach ensures that our clients are well-informed and can make the best decisions for their projects. Safety and compliance are at the forefront of our laboratory services. We adhere to strict industry standards and regulations, ensuring that all tests are conducted with the highest level of accuracy and precision. Our laboratory is accredited by relevant authorities, and we continuously update our practices to align with the latest industry developments and standards.


RGH Consultants' Soil and Material Testing Lab is more than just a facility; it's a partner in building a stronger, safer, and more sustainable future in construction. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and client satisfaction makes us a leader in the field of geological services. We are proud to contribute to the development of Northern California's landscape, supporting projects that stand the test of time with our expert testing and analysis services.

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