IS 73171993AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Code of practice for uniaxial jacking test for deformation modulus of rock

IS 7317:1993 provides a detailed code of practice for conducting uniaxial jacking tests to determine the deformation modulus of rock masses in situ. It outlines procedures for applying controlled hydraulic pressure on rock faces within drifts, galleries, or tunnels and interpreting the resulting stress-deformation data to evaluate rock deformability, creep behavior, and elastic modulus. This standard is essential for geotechnical engineers, rock mechanics specialists, and designers involved in the planning and construction of underground structures, dams, tunnels, and foundations where accurate rock mass deformation properties are critical.

9Sections
82Clauses Indexed
AI Search Ready
1993Edition
Rock MechanicsCategory
Alternative search terms: IS 7317 PDF, IS 7317 pdf free download, IS 7317 free download pdf, IS7317 PDF, IS-7317 PDF, IS 7317 1993 PDF, IS 7317:1993 PDF, IS 7317-1993 PDF, IS 7317 (1993) PDF, IS 7317 1993 edition PDF, IS 7317 edition 1993 PDF

What This Standard Covers

IS 7317:1993 provides a detailed code of practice for conducting uniaxial jacking tests to determine the deformation modulus of rock masses in situ. It outlines procedures for applying controlled hydraulic pressure on rock faces within drifts, galleries, or tunnels and interpreting the resulting stress-deformation data to evaluate rock deformability, creep behavior, and elastic modulus. This standard is essential for geotechnical engineers, rock mechanics specialists, and designers involved in the planning and construction of underground structures, dams, tunnels, and foundations where accurate rock mass deformation properties are critical.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Geotechnical Engineers
  • Rock Mechanics Specialists
  • Civil Engineers
  • Tunnel and Underground Structure Designers
  • Dam Foundation Engineers
  • Mining Engineers
  • Construction Project Managers

Key Topics Covered

Uniaxial jacking test methodology
Test site selection and geological mapping
Test setup configurations for narrow drifts and wide tunnels
Hydraulic loading apparatus specifications
Measurement of rock deformation and displacement
Data acquisition and interpretation of stress-deformation curves
Calculation of deformation modulus and elastic modulus
Consideration of creep and plastic deformation effects
Influence of rock mass properties and jointing on test results
Reporting requirements and test documentation
Application of deformation modulus in design
Effect of confining pressure and saturation on rock behavior

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 7317 - Scope & Key Formulas (Clause 6.6)

Scope:

  • Deals with displacement measurement beneath a circular loaded area on rock.
  • Focuses on interpreting test data for displacement under load.

Key Formula (Clause 6.6):

Displacement (\delta) at depth (Z) beneath the center of a circular loaded area:

[ \delta = \frac{2 p (1 - v^2)}{E} \sqrt{R^2 + Z^2} - \frac{p Z (1+v)}{E \sqrt{R^2 + Z^2}} - 1 ]

Where:

  • (\delta) = displacement in loading direction (mm)
  • (p) = stress at loaded surface (use small 'p' as per amendment)
  • (v) = Poisson's ratio of rock
  • (E) = modulus of elasticity of rock
  • (R) = radius of loaded area (m)
  • (Z) = depth from loaded surface to measurement point (m)

Table: Rock Displacement (mm) vs Depth (m)

Depth (m)0.1020.2030.3050.4060.5080.61
Displacement (mm)Values per test data (refer IS 7317)

Extensometer Anchor Depths (Typical)

Anchor No.Depth (m)
Sensor Head0.0
Anchor 10.5
Anchor 21.1
Anchor 31.8
Anchor 42.4
Anchor 53.2
Anchor 64.3
Anchor 76.0

Notes:

  • Use small 'p' for stress as per latest amendment.
  • Formula assumes elastic behavior and isotropic rock properties.
  • Useful for designing rock support and monitoring displacement in geotechnical engineering.
flowchart LR
    A[Load Applied] --> B[Circular Loaded Area (radius R)]
    B --> C[Stress p at surface
2General Requirements and Test Site Selection

IS 7317: General Requirements & Test Site Selection

Key Specifications from Clauses:

  • Site Selection:

    • Prefer testing in drifts, tunnels, or underground openings (Clause 2.4).
    • If unavailable, test near open excavation sides.
    • Prepare test site quickly, ideally within 15 days of selection (Clause 3.2).
    • For weather-sensitive rocks, test within 30 days of excavation to capture fresh rock properties.
  • Information to Collect (Clause 2.5):

    • Rock Quality Designation (RQD)
    • Point Load Strength Index
    • Number, dip, strike, spacing, and condition of joint sets
    • Groundwater condition (dry to flowing)
    • Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and Rock Mass Quality (Q)
    • Elastic modulus of rock material
    • Special features (shear/fault zones)
    • Excavation method and blasting damage description
  • Test Report Requirements (Clause 7.1):

    • Test location coordinates, drift number, chainage
    • Rock burden above site, test position (floor/roof/wall)
    • Time elapsed between excavation and testing
    • Loading direction and rock stratification orientation
    • Geological description with RMR and Q
    • In-situ stresses, test agency, apparatus details
    • Data tabulation, stress-deformation plots, creep factors
    • Plot of Ed/Er vs. RMR for deformation modulus selection

Important Table: Rock Mass Rating (RMR) Summary (Typical)

ParameterRating RangeDescription
RQD0 - 100%% of intact core pieces >10cm
Joint Spacing>2m to <0.06mWide to very close spacing
Joint ConditionFresh to WeatheredDegree of joint surface alteration
Groundwater ConditionDry to FlowingInfluence on rock strength
Uniaxial Compressive Strength<1 MPa to >250 MPaRock strength classification

Conceptual Workflow Mermaid Diagram:

flowchart TD
    A[Select Test Site] --> B[Geologist & Engineer Survey]
    B --> C[Collect Data: RQD, Joints, Water, RMR
3Preparation of Test Site

IS 7317: Preparation of Test Site – Key Points & Specifications

1. Site Selection & Geological Mapping (Clauses 2.1 & 2.5)

  • Compile all surface and subsurface geological data.
  • Prepare a 3D geological map showing micro-geology of rock mass.
  • Record jointly by geologists and engineers:
    • Rock Quality Designation (RQD)
    • Point Load Strength Index
    • Number, dip & strike of joint sets
    • Joint spacing & condition
    • Groundwater condition (dry, damp, wet, dripping, flowing)
    • Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and Rock Mass Quality (Q)
    • Modulus of Elasticity of rock material
    • Special features (shear/fault zones)
    • Excavation method (controlled blasting, chiselling)
    • Damage description due to blasting

2. Site Preparation (Clause 3.2)

  • Prepare the test area within 15 days of site selection.
  • For weather-sensitive rocks, conduct tests within 30 days of excavation to capture fresh rock properties.

3. Preferred Test Locations (Clause 2.4)

  • Conduct tests in drifts, tunnels, or underground openings.
  • Alternatively, near sides of open excavations for foundations or abutments.

Important Formulas & Ratings (for reference)

ParameterTypical Formula/Definition
RQD (%)Sum of lengths of core pieces >10 cm / total core length × 100
Point Load Strength Index (Is)( I_s = \frac{P}{D_e^2} ) where P = failure load, (D_e) = equivalent diameter
Rock Mass Rating (RMR)Sum of ratings for RQD, joint spacing, condition, groundwater, etc. (Refer IS 11384)
Modulus of Elasticity (E)From lab/uniaxial tests or empirical correlations
flowchart TD
    A[Geological Data Compilation] --> B[3D Geological Mapping]
    B --> C[Joint & Rock Parameters Recorded]
    C --> D[Site Selection]
    D --> E[Test Site Preparation (within 15 days)]
    E --> F[Testing in Drifts/T
4Test Setup and Equipment

IS 7317: Test Setup and Equipment Key Points

Test Setup Selection (Clauses 4.1, 4.2 & 5.1)

  • Preferred setup: Fig. 4 (most accurate technique).
  • Alternatives: Fig. 2 or Fig. 3 if Fig. 4 is not feasible.
  • Setup depends on:
    • Testing environment (small drift, tunnel, open trench).
    • Direction of test (vertical, horizontal, inclined).
    • Measurement location (bearing plate, outside loaded area, inside rock mass).

Equipment Specifications (Clause 2.5 & Fig. 2A)

  • Steel Plate: Minimum 60 cm diameter, 2.5 cm thick.
  • CI Plates: 75 cm thick with plane face.
  • Hydraulic Jack: 200 tonnes capacity, calibrated.
  • Dial Gauges:
    • 4 nos. with legs at 120° or 90° for fixing.
    • Least count: 0.002 mm.
  • Face Preparation: Dressed parallel, coated with 5 mm cement mortar.
  • Supporting Frame: Angle iron frame for jack support and easy positioning.

Summary Table of Equipment

EquipmentSpecification
Steel PlateØ ≥ 60 cm, thickness 2.5 cm
CI PlateThickness 75 cm, plane face
Hydraulic Jack200 tonnes, calibrated
Dial Gauges4 nos., 0.002 mm least count
Face Coating5 mm cement mortar
Support FrameAngle iron with steel base

flowchart LR
    A[Test Environment] --> B{Test Setup Choice}
    B -->|Preferred| C[Fig. 4 Setup]
    B -->|Alternate| D[Fig. 2 or 3 Setup]
    C & D --> E[Measurement & Equipment]
    E --> F[Steel Plate Ø ≥ 60cm, 2.5cm thick]
    E --> G[Hydraulic Jack 200t]
    E --> H[Dial Gauges (4 nos., 0.002mm)]
    E --> I[Face coated with 5mm cement mortar]

This ensures standardization and accuracy in uniaxial jacking tests per

5Test Procedure

IS 7317 - Test Procedure Key Points

1. Test Setups (Clause 4.2 & 5.1)

  • Preferred Setup: Fig. 4 (most recommended for testing)
  • Alternative Setups: Fig. 2 or Fig. 3 if Fig. 4 is not feasible
  • Fig. 2B shows Uniaxial Jacking Equipment for narrow drifts and galleries (Clause 3.0)

2. Test Procedure (Clause 5)

  • Follow the preferred test setup for accuracy.
  • Use hydraulic jacks as per Clause 3.0 specifications.
  • Ensure proper alignment and load application as per figures.

3. Formula Update (Page 9, Clause 6.6)

  • The existing formula for load or stress calculation is replaced (exact formula not provided here).
  • Always refer to the latest IS 7317 edition for the updated formula.

Typical Test Setup Summary:

flowchart LR
    A[Test Setup Selection] --> B{Is Fig. 4 setup possible?}
    B -- Yes --> C[Use Fig. 4 setup]
    B -- No --> D{Is Fig. 2 or Fig. 3 possible?}
    D -- Yes --> E[Use Fig. 2 or 3 setup]
    D -- No --> F[Modify setup accordingly]

For detailed dimensions and hydraulic jack specs, refer to Fig. 2B and related clauses in IS 7317.

6Interpretation of Test Data

IS 7317: Interpretation of Test Data (Clauses 5.8, 5.9, 6.6, 7.1)

Key Formula for Displacement (Clause 6.6)

Displacement ( \delta ) beneath a circular loaded area:

[ \delta = \frac{2P (1 - v^2)}{E} \sqrt{R^2 + Z^2} - \frac{PZ(1+v)}{E} \sqrt{R^2 + Z^2} ]

Where:

  • ( \delta ) = displacement in loading direction (mm)
  • ( P ) = stress at loaded surface
  • ( v ) = Poisson's ratio
  • ( E ) = modulus of elasticity
  • ( R ) = radius of loaded area
  • ( Z ) = depth below loaded surface

Important Data (Rock Displacement vs Depth)

Depth (m)Displacement (mm)
0.1020.102
0.2030.203
0.3050.305
0.4060.406
0.5080.508
0.6100.610

Test Data Interpretation (Clause 5.8 & 7.1)

  • Plot deformation vs stress, time, and depth to derive:

    • Modulus of deformation/elasticity at various stress levels
    • Creep factors
    • Variation of moduli with depth
  • Test report must include:

    • Test location, rock mass description, in-situ stresses
    • Test setup details, equipment specs, and calibration
    • Tabulated data and plots (stress vs deformation, time vs deformation)
    • Calculated moduli and creep factors
    • Plot of ( E_d / E_r ) vs RMR for design modulus selection

Summary Diagram: Data Interpretation Flow

flowchart TD
    A[Test Setup & Execution] --> B[Data Collection]
    B --> C[Plot Deformation vs Stress/Time/Depth]
    C --> D[Calculate Modulus & Creep Factors]
    D --> E[
7Reporting of Test Results

IS 7317: Reporting of Test Results — Key Points

Essential Report Contents (Clause 7.1)

  • Test environment: drift or open rock surface.
  • Test site location: 3D coordinates, drift number, chainage.
  • Overburden extent above test site.
  • Test position: floor, roof, or side walls.
  • Time elapsed since excavation.
  • Testing direction: vertical, horizontal, or inclined.
  • Rock mass orientation & loading direction.
  • Geological description including RMR and Q values.
  • In-situ rock stresses.
  • Testing agency details.
  • Uniaxial apparatus specs, photos, accuracy, sensitivity.
  • Tabulated raw data.
  • Graphs: Stress vs deformation, Time vs deformation, Depth vs deformation.
  • Deformation and elastic moduli at different stress levels.
  • Creep factors per stress level.
  • Additional relevant info.
  • Plot of Ed/Er vs RMR for deformation modulus selection.

Key Formula: Displacement under Circular Loaded Area (Clause 6.6)

[ \delta = \frac{2P(1 - v^2)}{E} \left[ \frac{R}{\sqrt{R^2 + Z^2}} - 1 \right] + \frac{PZ(1+v)}{E \sqrt{R^2 + Z^2}} ]

  • (\delta) = displacement (mm)
  • (P) = stress at loaded surface
  • (v) = Poisson's ratio
  • (E) = modulus of elasticity
  • (R) = radius of loaded area
  • (Z) = depth from loaded surface

Creep Factor Calculation (Clause 6.7)

[ \text{Creep Factor} (%) = \frac{\text{creep deformation during load increase}}{\text{total deformation}} \times 100 ]


Typical Extensometer Anchor Depths (Example)

Anchor No.Depth (m)
10.5
21.1
31.8
42.4
53.2
64.3
8Application of Modulus of Deformation

IS 7317: Application of Modulus of Deformation

Key Formula (Clause 4.3)

[ E_d = \frac{(1 - v) \times P \times m}{\delta \times A} ]

Where:

  • (E_d) = Modulus of deformation (kg/cm²)
  • (v) = Poisson's ratio (typical values:
    • 0.20 for granite/excellent rock
    • 0.25 for gneiss, quartzites
    • 0.30 for mica schist, slates)
  • (P) = Total load on test plate (kg)
  • (m) = Shape factor (0.96 for circular plate, 0.95 for square plate)
  • (\delta) = Deformation in one loading cycle (cm)
  • (A) = Area of test plate (cm²)

Elastic modulus (E_e) is calculated similarly using recoverable deformation instead of total deformation.


Important Notes:

  • Modulus depends on stress level; use engineering judgment for design values (Clause 1.1).
  • Based on Boussinesq solution for point load on infinite, homogeneous, isotropic, linear elastic material (Clause 6.5).
  • Plot deformation vs. stress/time/depth for detailed analysis (Clause 5.8).

Typical Poisson's Ratio Values for Rocks:

Rock TypePoisson's Ratio (v)
Granite0.20
Gneiss, Quartzite0.25
Mica Schist, Slate0.30

flowchart TD
    A[Apply Load P] --> B[Measure Deformation δ]
    B --> C[Calculate Ed using formula]
    C --> D[Plot Ed vs Stress/Time/Depth]
    D --> E[Determine Design Modulus]

This method helps estimate in-situ rock mass deformation modulus for tunnel/drift stability analysis.

9References and Bibliography

IS 7317 Key References & Specifications Summary

1. Modulus of Deformation (Clause 8.1)

  • Ed: For static analysis of dam foundations, varies with stress levels.
  • Ee: Dynamic modulus for dynamic analysis; often taken as elastic modulus at max stress.
  • Use Ee for design of concrete linings in pressure tunnels/penstocks.

2. Important Notes on Modulus Application

  • In-situ rock mass under confining pressure; lab tests usually without it → modulus increases with depth.
  • Saturation reduces modulus drastically, especially in poor rocks → apply correction factors.
  • Use 3D Finite Element Method for dam foundation settlement analysis.
  • Plastic behavior → non-linear analysis recommended.

3. Amendments & Contact

  • Amendments issued are listed in the document but none currently specified.
  • BIS offices and contacts provided for further standards and clarifications.

Typical Formula (Example from Clause 6.6)

(Exact formula substitutions not provided in context, refer to IS 7317 for detailed equations)


Visual Reference

  • Fig. 2, 3, 4: Typical test setups for rock mass modulus (Clause 4.2).

Summary Table: Application of Modulus of Deformation

ApplicationModulus TypeNotes
Static foundation analysisEdVaries with stress level
Dynamic dam analysisEe (dynamic modulus)Taken as elastic modulus at max stress
Concrete lining designEeAccounts for internal water pressure
Saturated rock massEd, Ee (corrected)Apply saturation correction factors

flowchart TD
    A[Rock Mass] --> B[In-situ Conditions]
    B --> C{Confining Pressure?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Higher Modulus (Ed, Ee)]
    C -- No --> E[Lab Test Modulus]
    D --> F[Use in Design]
    E --> F
    F --> G{Saturation?}
    G -- Yes --> H[Apply Correction Factors]
    G -- No --> I[Use Direct Modulus]

For detailed formulas and amendments, consult the full IS 7317 document from BIS.

Popular Questions About IS 7317

?What is the recommended setup for uniaxial jacking tests in narrow drifts versus wider tunnels?

IS 7317 Recommendations for Uniaxial Jacking Tests Setup

  • Narrow Drifts (≈1.25 m wide, 2.2 m high)

    • Keep drift size minimal to reduce packing plates or truss size.
    • Distance from loaded area to tunnel surface ≥ radius of loaded area to avoid restraint effects (Clause 3.1).
    • Use setup as per Fig. 2B: hydraulic jack with calibrated dial gauge, datum bar, hollow steel section, and calibrated pressure gauge.
    • Excavation must minimize rock disturbance; no blasting during final preparation.
  • Wider Tunnels

    • Larger setup with restraint columns and flat jack (~1 m diameter) as per Fig. 3.
    • Use multiple MPBX measuring anchors (≥5 per hole) for deformation measurement.
    • Core drill holes ~6 flat jack diameters deep.
    • Setup includes calibrated hydraulic jack, load cell, concrete pedestal for pump, and transducer lead wires.

Key Point:
The setup varies to ensure minimal boundary restraint influence and accurate deformation measurement depending on tunnel size.

Loading diagram...

This ensures reliable modulus measurement adapting to site geometry.

?How is the modulus of deformation calculated from the uniaxial jacking test data?

Modulus of Deformation (Ed) Calculation from Uniaxial Jacking Test (IS 7317)

  1. Test Setup:

    • Load applied via a circular flat jack (with inner radius ( R_1 ) and outer radius ( R_2 )) on rock faces.
    • Measure displacements ( \delta_1, \delta_2 ) at depths ( Z_1, Z_2 ) using extensometers.
  2. Key Formula:
    [ E_d = \frac{P \cdot (K_1 - K_2)}{\delta_1 - \delta_2} ] where:

    • ( P ) = applied pressure,
    • ( K_1, K_2 ) = geometric factors depending on ( R_1, R_2, Z_1, Z_2 ), derived from elastic half-space theory,
    • ( \delta_1, \delta_2 ) = measured displacements at depths ( Z_1, Z_2 ).
  3. Interpretation Notes:

    • Include all deformations due to applied load (elastic, plastic, creep).
    • Exclude deformations from blast damage or surface loosening (first cycle deformation).
    • Use later loading cycles (2nd to 5th) for stable modulus values.
    • The modulus is stress-level dependent; select design values accordingly.

Summary Table:

ParameterDescription
( P )Applied pressure (load)
( R_1, R_2 )Inner and outer radii of flat jack
( \delta_1, \delta_2 )Displacements at depths ( Z_1, Z_2 )
( E_d )Modulus of deformation

Loading diagram...
?What are the key geological considerations when selecting a test site for this standard?

Key geological considerations for selecting a test site per IS 7317 include:

  • Representative Geology: The test site must reflect the geology of the area influenced by the structure (Clause 2.3).

  • Data Compilation: Collect and analyze all surface and sub-surface geological data of the exploratory drift; prepare a 3D geological portrayal (Clause 2.1).

  • Detailed Geological Mapping: Prepare a 3D micro-geology map of the in-situ rock mass at the test location (Clause 2.5).

  • Essential Geological Parameters to Record:

    • Rock Quality Designation (RQD)
    • Point Load Strength Index
    • Number, orientation (dip & strike), spacing, and condition of joints
    • Groundwater condition (dry to flowing)
    • Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and Rock Mass Quality (Q)
    • Modulus of elasticity of rock material
    • Presence of shear/fault zones
    • Excavation method and blasting damage description
  • Timely Testing: Conduct tests within 15 days of site preparation or 30 days if rock is weathering-prone (Clause 3.2).

Loading diagram...

This ensures the test site accurately reflects the rock mass conditions affecting the structure.

?How does the standard address the effects of creep and plastic deformation in rock mass?

IS 7317 addresses creep and plastic deformation in rock mass as follows:

  • Deformation Components (Clause 6.2): Rock mass deformation includes elastic (reversible), plastic (irreversible), joint closure, and sliding along fissures. This combined behavior reflects elastic, plastic, and time-dependent (creep) effects.

  • Creep Effects (Clauses 1.2 & 6.4):

    • Creep characteristics are evaluated from displacement vs. time graphs (Clause 1.2).
    • Creep must be accounted for when computing the deformation modulus (Clause 6.4).
  • Modulus of Deformation (Clause 1.1):

    • Determined by uniaxial loading on rock faces using hydraulic jacks.
    • It varies with stress level and includes creep and plastic effects implicitly.
    • Selection of design modulus requires engineering judgment considering these effects.

Summary:

The standard treats rock mass deformation as a combination of elastic, plastic, and creep behaviors, requiring time-dependent displacement data to quantify creep and adjusting deformation modulus accordingly.

Loading diagram...

This approach ensures realistic modeling of rock behavior under load over time.

?In what ways should the deformation modulus be applied in the design of underground structures and dam foundations?

Application of Deformation Modulus (Ed) in Design of Underground Structures and Dam Foundations (IS 7317):

  • Definition: Ed is obtained via uniaxial loading on rock mass sections, reflecting rock deformability under stress.
  • Variable Nature: Ed varies with stress level; hence, design values require engineering judgment considering in-situ conditions.
  • Design Use:
    • Represents rock mass stiffness for structural interaction.
    • Used to estimate displacements and stress distribution around tunnels, galleries, and dam foundations.
    • Helps assess stability and settlement under load.
  • Determination:
    • Calculated using formula:
      [ E_d = \frac{(1 - v) \times P \times m}{\delta \times A} ] where:
      • (v) = Poisson’s ratio (0.20–0.30 depending on rock type)
      • (P) = load on test plate (kg)
      • (m) = correction factor (0.96 circular, 0.95 square plate)
      • (\delta) = deformation (cm)
      • (A) = area of test plate (cm²)
  • Report Requirements: Include geological data, test location, stress conditions, test orientation, and plots of stress vs deformation.
  • Design Selection: Use plots of Ed/Er vs RMR to choose appropriate design modulus.
Loading diagram...

Summary: Ed is a stress-dependent, site-specific parameter critical for realistic design of underground and dam foundation structures, ensuring safety and serviceability.

Need Detailed Clause Answers?

Ask AI about any clause, requirement, or provision in IS 7317. Get instant, clause-cited responses powered by our indexed library.

Free tier includes 150 queries (50 AI + 100 Reference) · No credit card required