IS 13946 Part 31994AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Determination of rock stress- Code of practice, Part 3: Using a CSIR or CSIRO type cell with 9 or 12 strain gauges

IS 13946 Part 3:1994 provides a detailed code of practice for determining in situ rock stress using a CSIR or CSIRO-type strain cell equipped with 9 or 12 strain gauges. This method involves drilling a pilot hole, installing a multi-gauge strain cell, overcoring to relieve stress, and calculating the stress tensor from measured strains. It is intended for geotechnical engineers, rock mechanics specialists, and researchers working with relatively homogeneous, elastic rock masses where precise stress measurement is critical for underground construction, mining, and civil engineering projects.

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What This Standard Covers

IS 13946 Part 3:1994 provides a detailed code of practice for determining in situ rock stress using a CSIR or CSIRO-type strain cell equipped with 9 or 12 strain gauges. This method involves drilling a pilot hole, installing a multi-gauge strain cell, overcoring to relieve stress, and calculating the stress tensor from measured strains. It is intended for geotechnical engineers, rock mechanics specialists, and researchers working with relatively homogeneous, elastic rock masses where precise stress measurement is critical for underground construction, mining, and civil engineering projects.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Geotechnical Engineers
  • Rock Mechanics Specialists
  • Mining Engineers
  • Civil Engineers
  • Geologists
  • Research Scientists in Rock Mechanics
  • Underground Construction Engineers

Key Topics Covered

Drilling and pilot hole preparation
Installation of CSIR/CSIRO-type strain cells
Use and orientation of 9 or 12 strain gauges
Measurement of strain relief by overcoring
Calibration and operation of strain measurement equipment
Data acquisition and averaging procedures
Calculation of stress tensor components
Elastic constants determination (Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio)
Data reduction using elasticity equations
Error estimation and data validation
Reporting requirements for stress measurement results
Limitations related to rock anisotropy and saturation
Safety and equipment handling in underground environments

Table of Contents

1Scope

Scope & Key Specifications from IS 13946 Part 3

  • Scope: Measurement of in-situ rock stresses using overcoring strain gauge techniques.

Key Specifications:

  • Drilling Equipment (Clause 4.1):

    • Drill with NXC (86 mm dia) or larger core barrels.
    • Pilot hole drilling with 38 mm dia coring bits and centralizers.
    • Strain cell with three rosettes (each 3-4 gauges) glued close to minimize rock volume influence.
    • Gauge length: ≥ 10 mm.
    • Orientation of rosettes as per Fig.1 & Fig.2 for six independent strain components.
  • Measurement Procedure (Clause 5.3.2):

    • Take two readings per gauge and average.
    • Minimum two complete rounds of readings.
  • Data Reporting (Clause 7.2):

    • Tabulate orientation & strain relief readings.
    • Provide Young's modulus (E) and Poisson's ratio (ν) with determination method.
    • Report six components of strain relief tensor (nearest 0.1 MPa).
    • Include standard deviation and error estimates.

Typical Strain Relief Tensor Components (6 components):

ComponentDescription
σ_xxNormal stress in x-axis
σ_yyNormal stress in y-axis
σ_zzNormal stress in z-axis
τ_xyShear stress xy-plane
τ_yzShear stress yz-plane
τ_zxShear stress zx-plane

Formula for Stress from Strain (Hooke's Law for isotropic rock):

[ \begin{bmatrix} \sigma_{xx} \ \sigma_{yy} \ \sigma_{zz} \ \tau_{xy} \ \tau_{yz} \ \tau_{zx} \end{bmatrix}

\frac{E}{(1+\nu)(1-2\nu)} \begin{bmatrix} 1-\nu & \nu & \nu & 0 & 0 & 0 \ \nu & 1-\nu & \nu & 0 & 0 & 0 \ \nu & \nu & 1-\nu

2References

IS 13946 Part 3 (1994) – Key References & Formulas

1. Stress-Strain Relation (Clause 6.4)

For isotropic rock, relate measured strains to stress tensor components (σf, σp, σ2, τxy, τxz, τyz):

[ \begin{aligned} A_{xx} &= \frac{2E}{1-v^2} \left[ \cos^2 \theta - (1-v) \times (1-\cos^2 \theta) \cos^2 \theta \right] \ A_{yy} &= \frac{2E}{1-v^2} \left[ \cos^2 \theta - (1-v) \times (1-\cos^2 \theta) \cos^2 \theta \right] \ A_{zz} &= \frac{2E}{1+v} + \frac{2E}{1+v} \cos^2 \theta + \frac{2}{1+v} \sin(2\theta) \cos \theta \ A_{xz} &= \sin(2\theta) E \ A_{xy} &= (1 - \cos 2\theta) \sin 2\theta E \ \end{aligned} ]

  • E = Young's modulus (from lab or biaxial/triaxial tests)
  • v = Poisson's ratio
  • θ, ω = angles defined per Fig.1 & 2 (orientation of gauges)

2. Data Reporting Requirements (Clause 7.2)

  • Tabulate orientation & strain relief readings per gauge
  • Specify E and v values and their derivation
  • Present six components of strain relief tensor (nearest 0.1 MPa)
  • Include standard deviation & regression error estimates (Clause 6.5)

3. Measurement Procedure (Clause 5.3.2)

  • Take two readings per gauge; average them
  • Perform at least two full rounds of readings
  • Use typical data sheet format (Annex A)

4. Notes

  • Applicable only for homogeneous, elastic rock.
  • Unsuitable for water-saturated holes due to bonding issues.
  • Requires intact core lengths ~2-3 times hole diameter.

5. Related

3Definitions

IS 13946 Part 3: Key Definitions & Formulas for Strain-Stress Relation


1. Definitions

  • E: Young's Modulus of rock (from lab/core tests)
  • v: Poisson's Ratio of rock (from lab/core tests)
  • σf, σp, σ2, τxy, τxz, τyz: Components of stress tensor
  • w, θ: Orientation angles of strain gauges (see Fig. 1 & 2 in code)
  • Strain Relief Tensor: Six components computed at each measurement point (to 0.1 MPa accuracy)

2. Core Formula (Clause 6.4)

Relates measured strains to stress tensor components assuming isotropic rock:

[ \begin{aligned} A_{xx} &= \frac{2E}{1-v^2} \left[ \cos^2\theta - (1-v) \times (1-\cos 2\theta) \cos^2\theta \right] \ A_{yy} &= \frac{2E}{1-v^2} \left[ \cos^2\theta - (1-v) \times (1-\cos 2\theta) \cos^2\theta \right] \ A_{zz} &= \frac{2E}{1+v} + \frac{2E}{1+v} \cos 2\theta + \frac{2E}{1+v} \sin(2\theta) \cos \theta \ A_{xz} &= \sin(2\theta) E \ A_{xy} &= (1 - \cos 2\theta) \sin 2\theta E \end{aligned} ]

(Note: The above are symbolic; refer to IS 13946 Fig.1 & 2 for exact angle definitions and full expressions.)


3. Data Reporting Requirements (Clause 7.2)

  • Tabulate gauge orientation & strain relief readings
  • Provide E and v values with determination method
  • Report six components of strain relief tensor (±0.1 MPa)
  • Include standard deviation & error estimates from regression (Clause 6.5)

4. Measurement Procedure (Clause 5.3.2)

4Drilling and Installation Equipment

Key Specifications & Equipment for Drilling and Installation (IS 13946 Part 3)

1. Drilling Equipment (Clause 4.1)

  • Drill & Core Barrels: NXC type, 86 mm diameter or larger for main hole.
  • Pilot Hole: Core bits and centralizers for 38 mm diameter pilot hole concentric with main hole.
  • Safety: Exhaust control (scrubbers) and anti-spark devices for underground gas hazard.
  • Strain Cell:
    • Holds multiple strain gauges glued close to minimize rock volume effect.
    • Uses 3 rosettes (each with 3-4 gauges) oriented at 0°, 60°, 300° for 6 independent strain measurements.
    • Gauge length ≥ 10 mm.

2. Installation Equipment (Clause 4.2)

  • Installing Tool:
    • Holds strain cell, enables electrical connection to multi-conductor cable.
    • Contains orienting device and gas-operated mechanism to press gauges against pilot hole walls.
    • Sized for easy insertion into pilot hole.
  • Cleaning Tools: Alcohol spray for drying and priming pilot hole for adhesive bonding.
  • Plug: To seal pilot hole during overcoring.

3. Measurement & Quality Control (Clause 5.1.4 & 5.3.1)

  • Pilot hole core must be intact and free from weakness planes.
  • If broken, drill 0.5 m deeper and repeat.
  • Use periscope/TV camera to inspect fracturing.
  • Initial strain readings taken before sealing pilot hole with plug.

Strain Gauge Rosette Orientation (Fig. 1 & 2)

RosetteOrientation (degrees)Purpose
10°, 60°, 120°Primary strain measures
2180°, 240°, 300°Additional strain data
3Similar arrangementCross-checking

Summary Diagram: Installation Setup

graph TD
    A[Drill Hole (90 mm dia)] --> B[Pilot Hole (38 mm dia)]
    B --> C[Installing Tool]
    C --> D[Strain Cell with Rosettes]
    C --> E[Electrical Cable &
5Installation and Measurement Procedures

IS 13946 Part 3: Installation and Measurement Procedures Key Points

Installation Equipment (Clause 4.2)

  • Installing tool: Holds strain cell, plugs strain gauges electrically, orients cell, and pushes gauges into pilot hole walls (usually gas-operated).
  • Cleaning tools: Alcohol spray for drying and priming pilot hole for good gauge adhesion.
  • Sealing plug: To seal pilot hole during overcoring.

Measurement Equipment (Clause 4.3)

  • Strain bridges: Accuracy to ±5 × 10⁻⁶ mm/mm.
  • Electrical connectors/switches: For measuring strain on each gauge.
  • Temperature device: Thermocouple/thermistor with ±1℃ accuracy at sensor location.
  • Adhesives and solvents: Ensure strain gauges remain bonded during drilling and measurement.
  • Calibration: All strain gauges must be calibrated before use.

Measurement Procedure (Clause 5.3.2)

  • Take two readings per gauge per round; average these.
  • Take at least two complete rounds.
  • Use averaged readings for calculations.

Reporting Details (Clause 7.2)

  • Orientation and strain relief tabulation.
  • Young’s modulus (E) and Poisson’s ratio (ν) with determination method.
  • Six components of strain relief tensor (nearest 0.1 MPa).
  • Standard deviation and error estimates from regression.

Typical Strain Calculation Formula:

[ \epsilon = \frac{\Delta R / R}{G_F} ]

  • (\epsilon): Strain
  • (\Delta R / R): Change in resistance ratio
  • (G_F): Gauge factor (usually ~2)

Diagram: Strain Cell Installation Concept

flowchart LR
    A[Pilot Hole] --> B[Installing Tool]
    B --> C[Strain Cell Inserted]
    C --> D[Strain Gauge Rosettes Pushed Out]
    D --> E[Electrical Connection via Multi-conductor Cable]
    E --> F[Measurement Equipment]

For detailed field data sheets, refer to Annex A of IS 13946 Part 3.

6Data Reduction and Stress Calculation

IS 13946 Part 3: Data Reduction & Stress Calculation Key Points


1. Stress-Strain Relationship (Clause 6.4)

For isotropic rock, the stress components (\sigma_x, \sigma_y, \sigma_z, \tau_{xy}, \tau_{xz}, \tau_{yz}) relate to measured strains via:

[ \begin{aligned} A_{xx} &= \frac{2E}{1-v^2} \left[\cos^2 \theta - (1 - v^2)(1 - \cos^2 \theta) \cos^2 \theta \right] \ A_{yy} &= \frac{2E}{1-v^2} \left[\cos^2 \theta - (1 - v^2)(1 - \cos^2 \theta) \cos^2 \theta \right] \ A_{zz} &= \frac{2E}{1+v} + \frac{2E \cos^2 \theta}{2(1+v)} \sin(2\theta) \cos \theta \ A_{xz} &= \sin(2\theta) \sin \phi E \ A_{xy} &= (1 - \cos 2\phi) \sin 2\theta E \ \end{aligned} ]

  • (E) = Young's modulus
  • (v) = Poisson's ratio
  • (\theta, \phi) = angles defining gauge orientation (see IS 13946 Fig. 1 & 2)

2. Data to Report (Clause 7.2)

  • Tabulate orientation and strain relief readings per gauge.
  • Specify Young’s modulus (E) and Poisson’s ratio (v) with test method.
  • Calculate and tabulate all 6 components of the stress tensor (to 0.1 MPa accuracy).
  • Provide standard deviation and error estimates for regression fits.

3. Principal Stress Calculation (Clause 6.6)

  • Compute principal stresses (\sigma_1, \sigma_2, \sigma_3) and their directions from the stress tensor using elasticity relations.
  • Typically done via matrix eigenvalue analysis in software.

Summary Table for Elastic Constants

| Parameter |

7Reporting of Results

IS 13946 Part 3 — Reporting of Results: Key Points & Formulas


1. Report Content (Clause 7.1 & 7.2)

  • General Info:

    • Drillhole locations, directions, lengths
    • Geotechnical core log with depth & rock characteristics
    • Description of procedure, equipment, with diagrams/photos
  • Detailed Depth Info per Measurement Location:

    • Tabulated orientation & strain relief readings per gauge
    • Young’s modulus (E) and Poisson’s ratio (ν) used, with determination method
    • Six components of the strain relief tensor (to 0.1 MPa precision)
    • Standard deviation & error estimates for regression (see Clause 6.5)

2. Data Handling (Clause 5.3.2)

  • Take two balances per gauge, average them
  • Minimum two complete rounds of readings
  • Use average readings for calculations

3. Strain Relief Tensor Components

The six independent components of the stress or strain tensor typically are:

ComponentDescription
σ_xxNormal stress in x
σ_yyNormal stress in y
σ_zzNormal stress in z
σ_xyShear stress xy
σ_yzShear stress yz
σ_zxShear stress zx

4. Regression & Error Estimation

  • Use regression to fit strain data to stress model (Clause 6.5)
  • Calculate standard deviation (σ) and error bounds to quantify reliability

5. Alternative Data Reduction (Clause 6.7)

  • If rock is significantly anisotropic, consider alternative methods beyond isotropic assumptions

Summary Table for Reporting

ParameterDetails/Units
Drillhole LocationCoordinates, length
Core LogDepth, rock type
Gauge ReadingsOrientation, strain relief
Young’s Modulus (E)GPa
Poisson’s Ratio (ν)Dimensionless
Strain Relief Tensor
Annex ATypical Field Data Sheet for Overcoring Results

Typical Field Data Sheet for Overcoring Results (IS 13946 Part 3)

Based on Clauses 5.3, 5.1.4, 6.1, and 7.1, key components and formulas include:


1. General Information (Clause 7.1)

  • Drillhole details: Location, direction, length (typically up to 20 m, 90 mm dia pilot hole).
  • Geotechnical log: Core description, depth of measurements, geological/structural features.
  • Equipment & procedure: Description with diagrams/photos (e.g., CSIR triaxial strain cell).

2. Core Quality (Clause 5.1.4)

  • Use solid, unbroken core free from planes of weakness.
  • If core is broken, drill 0.5 m deeper and repeat until solid core is found.
  • Examine fractured zones with periscope/TV camera before rejection.

3. Strain Measurement & Calculation (Clause 6.1)

  • Strain relief values = Average strain before overcoring − Average strain after overcoring.

4. Key Data to Record

ParameterDescription/Unit
Drillhole IDUnique identifier
Location (coordinates)X, Y, Z or GPS
Drillhole lengthm
Pilot hole diameter90 mm
Depth of measurementm
Core conditionSolid / fractured
Strain readings before overcoringMicrostrain (με)
Strain readings after overcoringMicrostrain (με)
Strain relief (Δε)με (computed)
Geological observationsRock type, fractures, etc.
Equipment usedE.g., CSIR triaxial strain cell

5. Formula Summary

[ \Delta \varepsilon = \bar{\varepsilon}{before} - \bar{\varepsilon}{after} ]

Where:

  • (\bar{\varepsilon}_{before}) = Average strain reading before overcoring
  • (\bar{\varepsilon}_{after}) = Average strain reading after overcoring

Annex BCommittee Composition

Committee Composition - IS 13946 Part 3 (1994)

Key Points:

  • The Rock Mechanics Sectional Committee, CED 48 is responsible for this part.
  • The committee includes experts from:
    • Universities (e.g., University of Roorkee, IIT Delhi)
    • Government departments (Irrigation, Power, Geological Survey)
    • Research Institutes (CSIR, NTPC, Central Water & Power Research Station)
    • Industry representatives (Hindustan Construction, Associated Instrument Mfrs)
    • BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) officials (Ex-officio members)

Chairman:

  • Dr. Bhawani Singh, University of Roorkee

Member-Secretary:

  • Dr. R. P. Kulkarni, Central Board of Irrigation & Power

Composition Highlights:

RoleRepresentation
ChairmanUniversity of Roorkee
MembersGovt. Irrigation Depts, CSIR, GSI, NTPC, IIT
Industry ExpertsConstruction & Instrument Manufacturing firms
BIS OfficialsDirector General, Deputy Directors

Stress Measurement - Overcoring (Clause 6.4)

Stress-Strain Relation for Isotropic Rock:

[ \begin{align*} A_{xx} &= \frac{2E}{1 - v^2} \left[ (1+v) \cos^2 \theta - (1 - v) \times (1 - \cos^2 2\theta) \cos^2 \theta \right] \ A_{yy} &= \frac{2E}{1 - v^2} \left[ (1+v) \cos^2 \theta - (1 - v) \times (1 - \cos^2 2\theta) \cos^2 \theta \right] \ A_{zz} &= \frac{2E}{1+v} + \frac{2E}{1+v} \cos^2 2\theta - \frac{2E}{1 - v^2} \sin (2\theta) \cos \theta \ A_{xy} &= (1 - \cos 2\theta) \sin 2\theta \frac{E}{1 - v^2} \end

Popular Questions About IS 13946 Part 3

?What type of drilling equipment is required for installing the CSIR/CSIRO strain cell?

Drilling Equipment for Installing CSIR/CSIRO Strain Cell (IS 13946 Part 3)

  1. Drill and Core Barrels:

    • Drill with NXC core barrels (≥86 mm diameter) to create the main overcore hole.
    • Coring bits and centralizing guides to drill a 38 mm diameter pilot hole concentric with the overcore hole.
  2. Installing Tool:

    • A tool that plugs the strain cell for:
      • Electrical connection to multi-conductor cable.
      • Holding and orienting the strain cell inside the pilot hole.
      • Pushing strain gauge rosettes into contact with hole sidewalls (usually gas-operated).
    • Must fit easily into the pilot hole.
    • Includes installing rods, electrical cable, and gas supply hose.
  3. Cleaning and Sealing:

    • Materials to dry and prime the pilot hole (e.g., alcohol spray).
    • A plug to seal the pilot hole during overcoring.
  4. Safety Provisions (Underground):

    • Exhaust control (scrubbers).
    • Anti-spark measures if gas hazards exist.

Summary Table

Equipment ComponentDetails
Drill & Core BarrelsNXC ≥ 86 mm dia for overcore; 38 mm pilot hole
Installing ToolHolds strain cell, orients, pushes gauges (gas-operated)
Cleaning MaterialsAlcohol spray for drying & priming
Sealing PlugTo seal pilot hole during overcoring
Safety Features (Underground)Exhaust control, anti-spark provisions

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This ensures precise installation and reliable strain measurement per IS 13946 Part 3.

?How are the 9 or 12 strain gauges arranged and oriented within the strain cell?

IS 13946 Part 3 specifies the arrangement of 9 or 12 strain gauges in a CSIR/CSIRO-type strain cell as follows:

  • The strain gauges are arranged as rosettes on the cylindrical wall of the drillhole.
  • Each rosette consists of multiple gauges oriented at specific azimuth angles from the drillhole axis (positive counterclockwise).
  • For 9 gauges: typically 3 rosettes × 3 gauges each, oriented at 0°, 45°, and 90° or similar angles spaced evenly to capture multi-axial strains.
  • For 12 gauges: usually 4 rosettes × 3 gauges each, spaced at 90° intervals around the circumference.
  • Gauges are carefully cleaned and checked for bridge balance before installation.
  • After overcoring, strain relief allows measurement of in-situ stress changes from the strain recorded by these oriented gauges.

Typical gauge orientation in a rosette (example for 3 gauges):

Gauge No.Orientation (°)
10
245
390
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This arrangement allows full determination of the strain tensor in the rock around the borehole.

?What are the procedures for taking and averaging strain measurements during overcoring?

Procedures for Taking and Averaging Strain Measurements During Overcoring (IS 13946 Part 3):

  1. Pre-Overcoring Measurements:

    • Attach strain gauge rosettes securely to the rock core.
    • Take initial strain readings to establish baseline values.
  2. Overcoring Process (Clause 5.3.3):

    • Overcore the strain cell by drilling around it and remove the core containing the cell.
    • This action relieves in-situ stresses, causing strain changes.
  3. Post-Overcoring Measurements:

    • Take multiple rounds of strain readings on the relieved core.
    • Continue readings until strain values stabilize, indicating stress relief equilibrium.
  4. Averaging Strain Values (Clause 6.1):

    • Compute strain relief values by subtracting the average pre-overcore strain from the average post-overcore strain for each gauge.
    • Use these averaged values for stress calculations.

Summary Table

StepActionPurpose
1. Pre-overcoringTake baseline strain readingsEstablish initial strain state
2. OvercoringDrill and remove coreRelieve in-situ stresses
3. Post-overcoringTake repeated strain readingsDetermine stable strain relief
4. AveragingAverage before & after readingsCalculate strain relief values

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Note: Ensure the pilot hole core is unbroken and free from weakness planes (Clause 5.1.4) for reliable measurements.

?How are Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio determined for stress calculations?

According to IS 13946 Part 3, Young's modulus (E) and Poisson's ratio (v) for stress calculations in rock are determined as follows:

  • Primary method: Laboratory testing of rock core specimens, typically through uniaxial or triaxial compression tests.
  • Alternative method: Biaxial or triaxial tests on cores containing the strain cell to directly measure elastic constants under stress conditions.

These values are essential for relating measured strains to stress components using elasticity equations (Clause 6.4). The report must document the E and v values and their determination method (Clause 7.2b).

Summary:

ParameterDetermination Method
Young's Modulus (E)Uniaxial/triaxial lab tests on cores
Poisson's Ratio (v)Same as above or biaxial/triaxial tests

This ensures accurate stress tensor computation from strain measurements.

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?What are the limitations of using this method in anisotropic or water-saturated rock conditions?

Limitations of IS 13946 Part 3 Method in Anisotropic or Water-Saturated Rocks

  • Applicability Restriction:
    Clause 6.7 explicitly states that if the rock is significantly anisotropic, this method (which assumes isotropy) is not valid. Alternative data reduction methods must be used.

  • Assumption of Isotropy:
    Clause 6.4 uses elastic constants (E, ν) assuming rock isotropy to relate measured strains to stress components. Anisotropy invalidates these relationships, causing inaccurate stress estimations.

  • Water Saturation Effects:
    Water-saturated rocks can alter elastic moduli and Poisson's ratio, affecting strain measurements. The method does not account for pore pressure effects or fluid-rock interaction, leading to errors.

  • Core Integrity Requirement:
    Clause 5.1.4 requires solid, unbroken core samples. Fractured or water-saturated cores may compromise strain cell installation and data reliability.


Summary Table of Key Limitations

LimitationReason
AnisotropyInvalidates isotropic stress-strain relations
Water SaturationAlters elastic constants, pore pressure effects
Core ConditionFractured/wet cores reduce measurement accuracy

Recommendation

For anisotropic or water-saturated conditions, use specialized methods such as anisotropic elasticity models or pore pressure-corrected analyses.

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