An Overview of Large Capacity Pile Load Test: A Case Study

Abstract

Full-scale pile load test is the most common approach to validate theoretical pile capacity. Static load testing of foundation piles is still considered as the best way to assess load carrying capacity of piles. Application of rate of loading, time increment or imposed displacement is the key factors for various testing methods. Sometimes, it is not possible to test the pile up to the failure; often pile does not reach ultimate pile capacity under the applied load. Applied load and measured pile head movement are to be examined during the entire test especially for axial pile load test. Challenges faced during installation and testing of a large diameter pile simulating marine conditions are covered in this paper. Reaction frame of 3600 T connected to four large diameter piles is designed as kentledge for pile load test, in the present case. This paper also illustrates pile installation challenges, simulation of marine conditions on land, importance of base cleaning, key aspects of reaction frame set up, discussion on test results and practices adopted in conducting large capacity pile load test.