Analysis of Driven Pile Bearing Capacity Results by Static and Dynamic Load Tests

Abstract

Traditionally, practical definition of bearing capacity of piles is stipulated by pile load tests performance by using static and dynamic load test methods. Field load test (namely Static and Dynamic load tests) is a very important part of pile design and accuracy of its performance reflecting on the future safety of building and construction.

There are two sustainable notions: static load tests of piles are more expensive, but results are more accurate; dynamic load tests of piles are less expensive, and the results are less accurate. Fields tests of driven piles were carried out on the different construction sites in Astana. The possibility to analyze static and dynamic test data is stipulated by the requirement of local regulations that demand to conduct of both tests on construction site regardless of the category of responsibility.

Moreover, it has been noticed the results of bearing capacity of pile depend on the type of hammer. The paper also provides an analysis of bearing capacities obtained by dynamic tests using a diesel and hydraulic hammer. As practice has shown, there is a difference between the bearing capabilities obtained with the use of a diesel and hydraulic hammer. The reason for that is the empirical equation (regulated by the local standard) for calculating the bearing capacity. The equation does not provide for the use of a hydraulic hammer with high impact energy and requires revision and input of correction factors. In order to analyze the latter, the impact energy of different hammers was measured by using pile dynamic analyzer sensors.

The paper presents the results of a comparative analysis of data obtained by static and dynamic tests using different types of hammers. The results of the research are presenting both in tabular and diagram interpretation.