Non-Destructive Testing

Services Details

A pile test is carried out on a single pile or a group of piles as required. In the case of pile groups, caps shall be provided such that the required conditions of actual use are fulfilled. Generally, the load application and deflection measurement should be made at the pile top.

Pile Integrity Test:
The pile integrity testing is a qualitative evolution of the physical dimensions, continuity of a pile, and consistency of the pile material and more popular and acceptable nowadays as it is basic, quick and also inexpensive. A large number of piles may be quickly tested at a construction site with a low strain method.

The procedure for determining the integrity of the individual, pile length, vertical or inclined pile by measuring and analyzing the velocity (required) and force (optional) response of the pile induced by a (handheld hammer or another similar type) impact device applied axially to the pile normally at the pile head.

Standard test Method for Low Strain Integrity Testing of Piles is as per ASTM Designation D 5882-96.
High Strain Dynamic Pile Load Test:

The High Strain Dynamic load test is similar to the Static load test which evaluates pile load-bearing capacity. The test procedure is standardized according to ASTM D4945 and also forms part of various specifications and code provisions worldwide. The method is convenient, reliable and helps to evaluate pile capacity and integrity in a short time and one or more piles can be tested per day.

The testing is conducted using Pile Driving Analyzer (PDA) Make: PDI, USA, by obtaining and analyzing records of force and velocity under drop-weight impacts. The field results are further analyzed with a signal matching technique (Case Pile Wave Analysis Program – CAPWAP) to refine the soil parameter assumptions.

The output from the test result can be summarized as below:
• The static capacity of the pile at the time of testing
• Simulated static load test curve
• Total skin friction and end bearing of the pile
• Skin friction distribution along the length of the pile
• Compressive stresses developed in the pile during testing
• Displacement of the pile
• The integrity of the pile shaft