High strain dynamic pile testing is usual practice, and has many benefits that make its use highly attractive. However, it requires careful preparation, specific equipment, attention to detail and testing engineer skill to properly perform these tests. Engineer skills for testing largely determines the non-proliferation of the method in Russia. Without of understanding wave equation analyses, the test engineer may not realize when results are valid, or when capacity results may be only a lower bound. It is widely known that the capacity of driven piles may change with time after installation and for that reason restrike tests are generally recommended. It is also generally stated that the set per blow should be at least 2 mm, or otherwise the dynamic test may only yield a lower bound solution. To confirm or refute these recommendations, an analysis of the existing test database was conducted, as well as an analysis of the tests performed at the Perm region facilities. The article presents the conclusions of this analysis and practical recommendations.
USING THE STRESS-WAVE THEORY TO DETERMINE THE BEARING CAPACITY OF PILES