Sand Densification by Heavy Vibratory Compactor

The effect of depth and number of coverages by a heavy vibratory compactor on densification of submerged sands was studied and it is concluded that clean submerged sand can be compacted to a medium-dense state to depths as great as 10 ft below the surface. Standard penetration tests and settlement data were obtained after repeated coverages by the compactor. The data indicates that relative densities in excess of 70% to a depth of 5-1/2 ft and in excess of 50% to a depth of 10 ft were achieved by eight coverages of the compactor. Additional coverages continue to densify the sand at a lesser rate. Close to the surface the sand is loosened by the compactor.