Pile Load Test

The estimation of pile load capacity and settlement under a load is based on the results of field
investigations, laboratory testing and the empirical and semi-empirical methods. These estimated
values should then be confirmed by field pile load tests. Pile load tests, in practice, are normally
executed in two alternative ways:
1. Test Pile Preliminary pile design is first carried out on the basis of site investigations,
laboratory soil testing, and office study. Pile load tests are then carried out to refine and finalize
the design. For these conditions, the test piles are generally tested to failure.
2. Test on a Working Pile In areas where previous experience is available, pile design is carried
out based on the site investigations, laboratory soil testing, and office study. Pile load tests are
then carried out on randomly selected actual piles to check the pile design capacities. In these
situations, the piles are generally tested to two times the design capacity.
The equipment and test procedures for these two alternatives are essentially similar. The main
difference is the level of final loading. Therefore, the details of tests presented below are
applicable for both of the tests listed above. The pile load tests include axial compression,
pullout, and lateral and dynamic loads.

An example of a typical axial compression load application arrangement