#049 Preparation for consolidation and Compaction of soil

Preparation

• The ground over which the filling has to be done should be cleaned off all grass, loose stones, rubbish of all kinds etc. If there is water in the area, it should be pumped or bailed out.
• If the plinth depth doesn’t exceed 45cm above ground level and if the exposed ground is B.C. soil, then remove the BC soil completely to avoid uneven settlement of the flooring.
• Select the refilling material from the excavated stuff and stock it separately for reuse.
• Estimate the quantity of refilling in the plinth and in pits. Judge the quantity of material available.
• Place the order for any further refilling material required.
• Engage laborers for refilling.
• Keep all tools for refilling and compaction ready.

Filling, consolidation & compaction

• The sides of concrete and masonry in foundation trenches or in the column pits should be filled with suitable excavated material. Filling should be done in layers, and compacted with steel rammer or with wooden logs.
• The approved excavated material, which has been stocked, shall be cleaned of all rubbish, large size stone, vegetation etc.
• Filling should be done in layers each layer being of 15cm to 20cm.
• Each layer is watered and compacted with heavy rammers of wooden logs or steel.
• If the area of refilling is large then either electric operated or fuel operated compactors are used to compact the filling material.
• The process of filling in plinth, watering and compaction shall be carried out till the required level is reached so as to form a thoroughly compacted base.
• While compacting due care is taken to protect the foundation columns, plinth walls, etc., which are already constructed.
• If the depth of filling exceeds more than 1m then for economy purpose building rabbit may be allowed as a filling material for further depth, the procedure being the same.
• Under no circumstances black cotton soil shall be used for filling in plinth and footing pits.