Soil type tool

Classify soils and determine bearing capacity

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The Soil Type Tool helps geotechnical and structural engineers identify soil classifications using the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) and determine bearing capacity for foundation design.

Understanding soil properties is critical for foundation design, earthwork, and construction planning. USCS classifies soils based on grain size, gradation, and plasticity, providing standardized soil descriptions used throughout the construction industry.

Select soil characteristics to identify USCS classification and view typical bearing capacity ranges. The tool helps engineers understand soil properties and select appropriate foundation types and design parameters based on site soil conditions.

Features

Everything you need

USCS soil classification
Bearing capacity ranges
Soil property descriptions
Permeability information
Multiple soil type support
Foundation design guidance
Geotechnical reference

How it works

Simple workflow

1
Select soil characteristics
2
Identify USCS classification
3
Review soil properties
4
See bearing capacity range
5
Apply to foundation design

Use cases

Built for real-world scenarios

Foundation design

Determine appropriate foundation types and bearing capacity for structural design.

Site investigation

Classify soils from field observations and laboratory testing.

Earthwork planning

Understand soil properties for excavation, compaction, and earthwork operations.

Code compliance

Verify foundation designs meet code requirements based on soil classification.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Unified Soil Classification System categorizes soils by: Coarse-grained (Gravel G, Sand S) or Fine-grained (Silt M, Clay C), Gradation (Well-graded W, Poorly-graded P), and Plasticity. Examples: GW (Well-graded Gravel), CL (Low-plasticity Clay).

Bearing capacity is the maximum pressure soil can support without excessive settlement. Typical ranges: Gravels 4000-6000 psf, Sands 2000-4000 psf, Clays 1000-3000 psf. Actual capacity requires geotechnical analysis.

Perform field tests (visual, feel) and laboratory tests (sieve analysis, Atterberg limits). Classify based on grain size distribution, plasticity, and organic content per USCS procedures.

Good soils (GW, SW): Spread footings. Fair soils (GM, SM, CL): May need deeper foundations. Poor soils (CH, OH): Deep foundations (piles) or soil improvement. Always consult geotechnical engineer.

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