Recent Advances on Dynamic Load Testing of Bored Piles and Other Cast-in-Situ Piles

Abstract

Dynamic testing was initially developed as a reliable way to estimate static capacity of driven piles in lieu of static tests that require significant time and money. However, principles of dynamic testing can be applied and have been successfully applied over the last 40 years in estimating static capacity of bored piles and other cast-in-situ piles. Challenges associated with bored piles, like knowing the as-built shape of the shaft or taking accurate force measurements in the top of the shaft, can be addressed by modern techniques and other recent technological advancements. The use of a force transducer at the top of the bored pile (or an instrumented hammer) can help with the collection of accurate force measurements especially on large diameter piles where excessive built-up or excavation would be required otherwise. The use of thermal wires or ultrasonic pulses type devices can address the unknown shape of boreholes. In this paper, advances in the dynamic load testing techniques as applied to bored piles and other cast-in-situ piles are presented.