Construction Materials Testing and Inspection

(1) Earthwork Observation and Testing

For over 32 years, BOTA Consulting Engineers, Inc. Principals, Project Engineers, and inspectors have been intimately involved with construction observation and testing services during earthwork operations, including placement and compaction of fills, over-excavation and reconstruction of unstable slopes, earthen buttresses, installation of sub-drains, placement of utility trench backfill, and placement of structural backfill behind retaining walls and foundations. Our trained technicians also perform nuclear and sand cone density testing, as necessary. BOTA Consulting Engineers offers materials testing services for private and public clients, and provides these services using certified technicians and registered engineers.

Our engineers have conducted pier and pile load tests and plate bearing tests, and have provided consultations and recommendations for excavations, ground water control, wet weather grading techniques, and other project issues. We also provide geotechnical engineering services during construction including inspection of foundation excavation operations for shallow footings and deep piers, and performing observation and engineering consultations during pile driving operations, including wave equation analysis for prediction of pile performance. In the event of unusual conditions, our senior geotechnical engineers provide immediate consultation in order to keep the project on schedule and under budget.

(2) Foundation

Engineered structures such as bridges, buildings, and transmission towers may be located on steep slopes and exert highly concentrated loads. Detailed understanding of the ground conditions and other factors such as earthquake loading or scour from high velocity flows are critical for foundation stability.

BOTA Consulting Engineers, Inc. personnel assists civil/structural engineers and contractors with the geotechnical design of foundations to support buildings, bridges, wind turbines, transmission towers, and dams. We are well-versed in the geotechnical aspects of both shallow and deep foundations on rock and soil and employ the most up-to-date analysis tools including empirical design criteria, limit equilibrium and finite and distinct element computer modeling programs.

BOTA provides investigative services that include siting studies and geologic site characterization. Methods of characterization include detailed geologic and structural rock mapping, geophysical surveys and diamond core drilling with structural core logging. We perform all geotechnical aspects and design for foundations on rock including slope stability and scour investigations as well as construction monitoring, tensioned anchor testing, load testing, and foundation subgrade surveys.

(3) Masonry Inspection

In recent years, concrete masonry has become a popular building material due to its strength, durability, affordability, visual appearance, and its resistance to fire, noise, and degradation. Over time, the design and construction of masonry structures has evolved and become more complex. To function as designed, concrete masonry structures must be constructed properly. Our qualified inspectors confirm that the materials and workmanship meet specifications.

BOTA Consulting Engineers provides pre-placement, placement, and post-placement testing and inspection. These tests and inspection services assist the client and contractor in evaluating the quality of masonry being placed in the structure. Tests are performed in accordance with the American Concrete Institute (ACI), American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and International Building Codes (IBC) test and inspection procedures.

We are committed to providing the highest quality services. We understand the unique relationship between all parties involved with a construction project. Cooperation with the various parties that is consistent with the client's interest leads to a reduction in costs along with an increase in quality. BOTA's involvement in this project will assist in producing the best structure possible.

(4) Structural Steel Inspection

BOTA employs some of the most respected leaders in the field of structural steel shop fabrication and field erection inspection with more than 25 years’ experience. This knowledge and experience plays an important part in guiding the professional´s judgment in the inspection of steel and welding. The Team includes inspectors certified in accordance with AWS Standard QC-1-88 "Qualification and Certification of Welding Inspectors."

A typical scope of services for structural steel inspection is developed to satisfy the needs of a specific project. The size and complexity of the project are taken into consideration, but the program generally follows the guidelines established by AISC and AWS D1.1. Frequently, this includes provisions of an inspector at the fabrication shop and the erection site to review shop fabrication procedures. Mill certificates are also obtained to verify proper materials throughout the duration of the fabrication, as required. Any questionable materials are sampled and tested for physical and analytical properties at one of our laboratories. Visual inspection of welds is made in the fabrication shop and during erection for conformance with AWS D1.1, design specifications and erection drawings.

(5) Concrete Inspection

Concrete fabrication inspection and monitoring is of upmost importance to the stability of any concrete structure. BOTA’s concrete testing services helps our client evaluate both existing concrete structures and new structures being built, by assuring that the product conforms to project requirements, codes, and standards.

Using non-destructive test methods - proven to be valuable in detecting flaws in existing concrete structures and in determining slab depths and thicknesses - we test mechanical anchors along with epoxy-bonded dowels. We can locate reinforcing steel and determine sizes up to eight inches deep within concrete structures.

BOTA Consulting Engineers provide analysis and solutions for unstable ground and slope issues caused by ground water conditions, including the use of geosynthetics and lime-cement additives. We are familiar with innovative uses of geosynthetics in various types of construction, such as railroads, roads, highways, parking lots, structural fills, drainage systems, retained earth walls, and storage ponds. Recommended solutions have included ground stabilization, layer separation, filtration, soil reinforcement, and erosion control.

(6) Concrete/Soil Laboratory

BOTA Consulting Engineers offers a range of special inspection and materials testing services performed by certified inspectors using modern testing equipment and procedures. Our services are provided in accordance with the Building Code Officials (or other applicable code), local building authority, and the approved project plans and specifications. BOTA professional and technical staff has provided local experience, expert knowledge, and outstanding service to various industries, public agencies, commercial and residential developers, and other design professionals.

BOTA Consulting Engineers, Inc. maintains a complete material testing laboratory in-house for laboratory services support the testing requirements of soils and rock obtained during our drilling operations for geotechnical assessments. In addition, the laboratory services support our work for construction materials and quality assurance activities in the construction industry. Field quality control operations are supported by several technicians and equipment including nuclear density gauges, and concrete and asphalt testing apparatus. The laboratory facilities have been certified by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), WACEL, and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The firm is capable of providing standardized material testing for a range of materials including Aggregates, Concrete, and Soils. Our teams of Professional Engineers are registered in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Our technicians and technologist are WACEL, ACI, and NICET certified.