Foundation Design -- Pile Testing

Paper Summary:

The paper shows that the construction of piled foundations is a skilled operation, and calls for a high level of training and experience. Though they are not infrequent, when faults are discovered in some important piles, the consequences could be severe. This paper describes two major types of pile tests: Pile-load test and Integrity test. The integrity tests include acoustic test, and seismic test method. For each pile test, the procedure and interpretation are discussed. An actual case is investigated and pictures are presented.

From the Paper:

"Acoustic test:
"Advantages: The system scans the pile concrete radially for a distance of approximate 100mm around the drilled hole or installed tube. The method is relatively rapid, some tens of tests being possible daily.
Disadvantages: Pre-selection is generally required as it is usual to install purpose made tubes in the pile for the equipment. It is necessary to employ plastic tubes for this purpose, with the attendant risk of collapse, steel tubes being unsuitable for single hole logging. The installation of the tube adds to the reinforcement steel in restricting free concrete flow and may in itself lead to defects. Poor bonding of the tube to the concrete may yield an anomalous response. Unless a hole is drilled, it is not possible to inspect right to the base of a pile by this method. Specialist interpretation is generally necessary."

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