About this tool Calculate the ground contact pressure exerted by plant, equipment, or any loaded area. Enter the total mass and contact area to get the applied pressure in kPa.
Includes common equipment presets — from mini excavators to HGVs — with typical contact areas. Use custom values for specific machines or temporary works pads.
Compare the result against the allowable bearing capacity of the ground to check whether plant can operate safely without temporary works platforms or ground improvement.
How to use this tool 1. Select an equipment preset or enter custom values — presets fill in typical mass and contact area.
2. Adjust the values if needed — for example, add the weight of the load being lifted.
3. Compare the ground pressure against bearing capacity — if pressure exceeds capacity, a working platform or spreading layer is needed.
Technical information Pressure = Force / Area = (mass × g) / A
g = 9.81 m/s². Contact area is the total footprint of tracks, tyres, or pads in contact with the ground.
Limitations This calculates average contact pressure only. Actual pressure distribution under tracks and tyres is non-uniform — peak pressures at edges can be significantly higher.
Equipment presets are indicative. Always check the specific machine data sheet for actual operating weight (including attachments) and track/tyre dimensions.
For working platform design, refer to BRE BR470 and CIRIA C774 which account for load spread, dynamic effects, and platform thickness design.
Revision history 1 February 2026: Initial release
Disclaimer This tool is provided for educational and general information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional engineering advice, design or verification.
Diggy and its contributors are not licensed engineering consultants and no results generated by this tool should be used directly for construction, design or safety-critical decisions.
All values and outputs are based on published empirical correlations and should be independently checked and confirmed by a qualified geotechnical engineer before use.
By using this tool, you accept full responsibility for how you interpret and apply the information provided.
Spotted an error? Let us know .
