Dynamic Pile Load Testing

Confirmation of satisfactory construction of all pile types has lead to the development of practical, inexpensive and reliable dynamic testing techniques.

Dynamic Pile Load Testing provides: 

• Immediate results for each hammer blow 
• Detection of extent and location of pile damage 
• An indication of soil resistance during driving, restrike tests indicate soil set-up or relaxation 
• Ability to trace potential problems to hammer, pile or soil 
• Improved quality control.

Dynamic Pile Load Testing is performed by attaching reusable, high quality sensors to the pile wall to monitor the force and velocity of a stress wave imparted into the pile head by a suitable falling weight. Testing is normally carried out using the contractors piling plant, however, PMC can supply a self contained 1.5 tonne drop hammer system suitable of demonstrating up to 120 tons and ideally suited to the bored pile market.

Data is collected and stored automatically on a blow by blow basis to aid decisions during pile driving and can be further evaluated using the CAPWAP method which uses the measured data with a pile model to calculate soil behaviour and simulated load deflection curve. 

We use the most modern, battery operated Pile Driving Analyzer (PDA) recognised by solid reputation as the industry standard for high strain dynamic testing.

Experienced operators are able to detect significant or anomalous driving behaviour at an early stage, enabling quick evaluation and enhancing the reliability of the foundation. For small projects, large piles or over water projects, PMC - and the PDA system - can provide a low cost tool for pile analysis.

We have the capability to provide remote access to the units to enable real time assessment of the measured data.

We can offer a wealth of experience in the application of stress wave techniques and can help evaluate appropriate pile testing schedules to suit your needs.