SPECIFICATION

SECTION 10 – PILING WORKS

Page

10.1 DESCRIPTION 1
10.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR TOLERANCES 1
10.2.1 Setting Out 1
10.2.2 Position 1
10.2.3 Verticality 1
10.2.4 Rake 1
10.2.5 Forcible Corrections 1
10.2.6 Piles Out of Alignment or Position 1
10.2.7 Records 2
10.2.8 Piling Sequence 2
10.2.9 Nuisance and Damage 2
[Link] Noise and Disturbance 2
[Link] Damage to Adjacent Structures 2
[Link] Damage to Piles 2
[Link] Temporary Support 2
10.2.10 Rejected Piles 7
10.3 PRECAST REINFORCED CONCRETE PILES 7
10.3.1 Description 7
10.3.2 Materials 7
[Link] Concrete 7
[Link] Reinforcement 7
[Link] Pile Shoes 7
[Link] Pile Joints 7
[Link] Pile Toes 8
[Link] Tolerances in Pile Dimensions 8
10.3.3 Manufacture and Storage of Precast reinforced Concrete
Piles 8
[Link] Casting 8
[Link] Handling and Storage 9
10.3.4 Installation of Precast Reinforced Concrete Piles 9
[Link] Pitching of Piles 9
[Link] Driving of Piles 9
[Link] Repair of Damaged Pile Heads 10
[Link] Lengthening of Piles 10
[Link] Cutting and Preparation of Pile Heads 10
[Link] Strength of Piles 11
[Link] Leaders and Trestles 11
[Link] Performance Of Driving Equipment 11
[Link] Length of Piles 11
[Link] Driving Procedure and Redrive Checks 11
[Link] Final Set 12
[Link] Driving Sequence and Risen Piles 12
[Link] Preboring 12
[Link] Jetting 12
[Link] Repair Of Damaged Pile Heads 12
10.4 PRESTRESSED SPUN CONCRETE PILES 13
10.4.1 Description 13
10.4.2 Materials 13
[Link] Concrete 13
[Link] Reinforcement 13
[Link] End Plates 13
[Link] Pile Shoes 13
[Link] Pile Joints 13
[Link] Pile Toes 13
[Link] Tolerances in Pile Dimensions 13
10.4.3 Manufacture and Storage of Prestressed Spun Concrete
Piles 13
[Link] Casting 13

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SPECIFICATION

[Link] Handling and Storage 14

10.4.4 Installation of Prestressed Spun Concrete Piles 14
10.5 BORED CAST-IN-PLACE PILES (NOT APPLICABLE) 14
10.6 MICROPILES (NOT APPLICABLE) 14
10.7 PILE MAINTAIN LOAD TESTING 14
10.7.1 Test Piles 14
10.7.2 Preliminary Pile Load Tests 14
10.7.3 Production Pile Load Tests 15
10.7.4 Testing Procedure 15
[Link] Preparation of Test Pile 15
[Link] Method of Loading 15
[Link] Measurement of Settlement 16
10.7.5 Method of Testing 16
[Link] General 16
[Link] Maintained Load Test 16
[Link] Constant Rate of Penetration (CRP) Test 17
10.7.6 Submission of Results 18
10.7.7 Interpretation of Test Results 19
10.8 DYNAMIC PILE TESTING 19
10.8.1 High Strain Dynamic Pile Testing (PDA) 19
[Link] General 19
[Link] Equipment and Personnel 20
[Link] Execution 21
[Link] Testing Procedures 21
[Link] Dynamic Testing Reports 23
10.8.2 Load Testing for Piles Under Rapid Axial Compression Load
(Statnamic Test) 24
[Link] Scope 24
[Link] Referenced Documents 24
[Link] Method Statement 24
[Link] Terminology 24
[Link] Apparatus 25
[Link] Procedure 26
[Link] Report 28
[Link] Safety Requirements 28
10.9 INTEGRITY TESTING OF PILES 28
10.9.1 General 28
10.9.2 Shock Method 29
10.9.3 Sonic Logging Method 30

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SPECIFICATION

SECTION 10 – PILING WORKS

10.1 DESCRIPTION

This work shall consist of the supply, installation and testing of piles in
accordance with this Specification and the lines, levels, grades and cross-
sections shown on the Drawings and as directed by the Engineer.

10.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR TOLERANCES

10.2.1 Setting Out

Setting out shall be carried out using the data and reference points as shown
on the Drawings. Immediately before installation of the pile, the pile position
shall be marked with suitable identifiable pins, pegs or markers.

10.2.2 Position

For a pile cut off at or above ground level the maximum permitted deviation of
the pile centre from the centre points shown on the Drawings shall not
exceed 75 mm in any direction. For a pile cut off below ground level an
increase in this tolerance is permitted in accordance with Sub-Section 10.2.3
and 10.2.4 herein below.

10.2.3 Verticality

The maximum permitted deviation of the finished pile from the vertical
is 1 in 75.

At the commencement of installation, the pile, or pile forming equipment in

the case of a driven pile, or the relevant equipment, governing alignment in
the case of the bored pile, shall be made vertical to a tolerance of within 1 in
100.

10.2.4 Rake

The piling rig shall be set and maintained to attain the required rake. The
maximum permitted deviation of the finished pile from the specified rake or
the rake shown on the Drawings is 1 in 25.

As in Clause 10.2.3, the pile, or driving or other equipment governing the

direction and angle of rake shall be set to give the correct alignment of the
pile within a tolerance of 1 in 50.

10.2.5 Forcible Corrections

Forcible corrections to concrete piles shall not be permitted. Forcible

corrections may be permitted to other types of piles if approved by the
Engineer However, no forcible corrections shall be made to piles which have
deviated beyond the permissible limits specified in Sub-Sections 10.2.2,
10.2.3 and 10.2.4 above.

10.2.6 Piles Out of Alignment or Position

The Contractor shall, if ordered by the Engineer, extract and reinstall any pile
which has deviated out of position or alignment by more than the specified
limit, or alternatively, the substructure shall be modified to the approval of the
Engineer The cost of such extraction and reinstallation or any extra cost in
the design and construction of a modified foundation shall be borne by the
Contractor if, in the opinion of the Engineer, such extra works have been
made necessary due to the error and/or negligence of the Contractor.

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10.2.7 Records

The contractor shall keep at least records as indicated by an asterisk in Table

10.1 of the installation of each pile and any other information the Engineer.
may require and shall submit two signed copies of these records to the
Engineer not later than noon of the next working day after the pile was
installed. The signed records will form a record of the work.

Any unexpected driving or boring conditions shall be noted in the records.

Records of all piles driven or installed shall include the following data:

(i) Diameters and depths of jetting or pre-boring used, if any.

(ii) Records of level readings on adjacent piles to detect uplift during
driving.

10.2.8 Piling Sequence

The Contractor’s proposed piling sequence shall be subject to the approval of

Engineer prior to commencing the work.

10.2.9 Nuisance and Damage

[Link] Noise and Disturbance

The Contractor shall carry out the work in such a manner and at such times
as to minimise noise, vibration and other disturbance in order to comply with
current environmental legislation.

[Link] Damage to Adjacent Structures

If in the opinion of the Contractor damage will be, or is likely to be, caused to
mains services or adjacent structures, he shall submit to the Engineer his
proposals for making surveys, monitoring movements or vibrations, and
minimising or avoiding such damage.

[Link] Damage to Piles

The Contractor shall ensure during the course of the work, displacement or
damage which would impair either performance or durability does not occur
to completed piles.

The contractor shall submit to the Engineer his proposed sequence and
timing for driving or boring piles, having regard to the avoidance of damage to
adjacent piles.

[Link] Temporary Support

The contractor shall ensure that where required, any permanently

freestanding piles are temporarily braced or stayed immediately after driving
to prevent loosening of the piles in the ground and to ensure that no damage
resulting from oscillation, vibration or movement can occur.

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 SPECIFICATION

TABLE 10.1 - RECORDS TO BE KEPT (INDICATED BY AN ASTERISK) – continued next

page

Data Driven Driven Driven Driven Bored Continuous Micro-

precast segmental segmental cast-in- cast-in- flight auger piles
concrete, concrete prestresse place place concrete or
steel and piles d precast concrete concrete grout piles
timber piles piles piles piles
Contract * * * * * * *
Pile reference * * * * * * *
number
(location)
Pile type * * * * * * *
Nominal cross- * * * * * * *
section
dimensions or
diameter
Nominal - - - * * * -
diameter of
under
ream/base
Length of * * * - - - -
preformed pile
Standing - - - * * * *
groundwater
level from direct
observation or
given site
investigation
data
Date and time * * * * * * *
of driving,
redriving or
boring
Date of - - - * * * *
concreting
Ground level at * * * * * * *
pile position at
commencement
of installation of
pile
(commencing
surface)
Working level * * * * * * *
on which piling
base machine
stands

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 SPECIFICATION

TABLE 10.1 - RECORDS TO BE KEPT (INDICATED BY AN ASTERISK) – continued next

page

Data Driven Driven Driven Driven Bored Continuous Micro-

precast segmental segmental cast-in- cast-in- flight auger piles
concrete, concrete prestresse place place concrete or
steel and piles d precast concrete concrete grout piles
timber piles piles piles piles
Depth from * * * * * * *
ground level at
pile position to
pile toe
Toe level * * * * * * *
Pile head level * * * * * * *
as constructed
Pile cut-off level * * * * * * *
Length of - - - * * - *
temporary
casing
Length of - - - * * - *
permanent
casing
Type, weight * * * * - - -
drop and
mechanical
condition of
hammer and
equivalent
information for
other equipment
Number and * * * * - - -
type of packing
used and type
and condition of
dolly used
during driving of
the pile
Set of pile or * * * * - - -
pile tube in
millimetres per
3 blows or
number of
blows per
25mm of
penetration

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 SPECIFICATION

TABLE 10.1 - RECORDS TO BE KEPT (INDICATED BY AN ASTERISK) – continued next

page

Data Driven Driven Driven Driven Bored Continuous Micro-

precast segmental segmental cast-in- cast-in- flight auger piles
concrete, concrete prestresse place place concrete or
steel and piles d precast concrete concrete grout piles
timber piles piles piles piles
If required, the * * * * - - -
sets taken at
intervals during
the last 3m of
driving
If required, * * * * - - -
temporary
compression of
ground and pile
from time of a
marked
increase in
driving
resistance until
pile reached its
final level
If required, * * * * - - -
driving
resistance
taken at regular
intervals over
the last 3m of
driving
Soil samples * * * * * * *
taken and in
situ tests
carried out
during pile
formation or
adjacent to pile
position
Length and - - - * * * *
details of
reinforcement
Concrete mix - - - * * * *

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 SPECIFICATION

TABLE 10.1 - RECORDS TO BE KEPT (INDICATED BY AN ASTERISK)

Data Driven Driven Driven Driven Bored Continuous Micro-

precast segmental segmental cast-in- cast-in- flight auger piles
concrete, concrete prestresse place place concrete or
steel and piles d precast concrete concrete grout piles
timber piles piles piles piles
Volume of - - - * * * *
concrete
supplied to pile
where this can
be measured in
practice
All information * * * * * * *
regarding
obstructions
delays and
other
interruption to
the sequence of
work

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SPECIFICATION

10.2.10 Rejected Piles

Any pile not truly constructed or unduly out of position as established by the
Engineer shall be rejected and new pile or piles shall be installed by the
Contractor.

10.3 PRECAST REINFORCED CONCRETE PILES

10.3.1 Description

This work shall comprise the supply and installation of precast reinforced
concrete piles, inclusive of pitching and driving, lengthening and cutting and
preparation of pile heads, all in accordance with this Specification and to the
details shown on the Drawings.

10.3.2 Materials

[Link] Concrete

Unless otherwise specified, ordinary Portland cement shall be used for the
casting of piles.

The materials and workmanship shall be specified under Section 9 of this

Specification. The grade of concrete and the details of reinforcement to be
used shall be as shown on the Drawings.

[Link] Reinforcement

The main reinforcing bars in piles not exceeding 12 m in length shall be in

one continuous length unless otherwise approved by the Engineer.

In piles exceeding 12 m long, joints shall be permitted in main longitudinal

bars at 12 m nominal intervals. Joints in adjacent bars shall be staggered at
least 1 m apart along the length of the pile. Joints shall be butt welded as
specified in Sub-Section 9.7.5 of this Specification. Other means of jointing
reinforcement, such as by means of mechanical couplings shall be to the
approval of the Engineer.

[Link] Pile Shoes

The type of pile shoes to be used shall be as shown on the Drawings and
shall comply with the following as relevant :-

“Chilled-hardened” cast iron shoes as used for making grey iron castings to
BS EN 1561, Grade 10; or

Mild steel to B.S. 4360, Grade 50B; or

Cast steel to B.S.3100, Grade A

Mild steel straps cast into the shoes shall be as shown on the Drawings.
Rock shoes where required shall consist of wrought iron shoes and mild steel
straps cast into “Chilled-hardened” cast iron blocks, as shown on the
Drawings.

[Link] Pile Joints

The joints shall be close-fitting face to face and the locking method shall be
such as to hold the faces in intimate contact. The design and manufacture of
the jointing system shall be approved by the Engineer prior to the
commencement of the contract.

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SPECIFICATION

A jointed pile shall be capable of withstanding the same driving stresses as a

single un-jointed pile of the same cross-sectional dimensions and materials.

The welding of a joint to main reinforcement in lieu of a lapped connection

with projecting bars affixed to the joint shall not be permitted.

[Link] Pile Toes

Pile toes shall be constructed so as to ensure that damage is not caused to

the pile during installations. Where positional fixity is required on an inclined
rock surface or in other circumstances, an approved shoe may be required.

[Link] Tolerances in Pile Dimensions

The cross-sectional dimensions of the pile shall be not less than those
specified.

The head of a pile element or the end of the pile upon which the hammer acts
shall be square to the pile axis within a tolerance of 1 in 50.

Each pile joint shall be square to the axis of the pile within a tolerance of 1 in
150. The centroid of the pile joint shall lie within 5 mm of the true axis of the
pile element.

Each face of a pile element shall not deviate by more than 6 mm from any
straight line 3 m long joining two points on that face, nor shall the centre of
area of the pile at any cross-section along it’s length deviate by more than 12
mm from a line joining the centres of area at the ends of the elements.

10.3.3 Manufacture and Storage of Precast reinforced Concrete Piles

[Link] Casting

The length of piles to be cast shall be as shown on the Drawings, subject to

revision by the Engineer. Based on the results of pile driving resistance
and/or load tests carried out on piles driven on the site, the Engineer may
from time to time order the length of the piles to be modified.

Piles shall be cast on a horizontal platform in approved moulds to the

dimensions as shown on the Drawings. The concreting of each pile shall be
completed in one continuous operation and no interruptions will be permitted.
Lifting holes shall be formed during casting in the positions and in accordance
with the details shown on the Drawings.

The cross-sectional dimensions of the pile shall not be less than those shown
on the Drawings and shall not exceed them by more than 6 mm. Any face of
a pile shall not deviate by more than 6 mm from a straight edge 3 m long laid
on the face, and the centroid of any cross-sections of the pile shall not
deviate by more than 12 mm from the straight line connecting the centroids of
the end faces of the pile.

After a pile has been cast, the date of casting, reference number, and the
length shall be clearly marked with in-erasable marker on the top surface and
on the head of the pile. In addition, each pile shall be marked at intervals of
0.5 m along its length before being driven.

All piles shall be supplied by approved manufacturers. Casting of piles at the

Site is not permitted unless approved by the Engineer.

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SPECIFICATION

[Link] Handling and Storage

The method and sequence of lifting, handling, transporting and storing piles
shall be such that piles are not damaged. Only the designed lifting and
support points shall be used. During transport and storage, piles shall be
placed on adequate supports located under the lifting points of the piles. All
piles within a stack shall be in groups of the same length. Packings of
uniform thicknesses shall be provided between piles at the lifting points.

Extra care shall be exercised to ensure that the pile will not crack during the
handling and storage process. Any cracks developed in he pile will be
rejected unless otherwise approved by Engineer, the general acceptance
criteria for permissible crack width of piles before driving shall be as follows :-

Pile with crack width more than 0.2 mm irrespective of crack length shall be
rejected.

For transverse crack, pile with crack length longer than half the perimeter of
pile irrespective of crack width shall be rejected.

For longitudinal crack, pile with crack length longer than 100 mm irrespective
of crack width shall be rejected.

10.3.4 Installation of Precast Reinforced Concrete Piles

[Link] Pitching of Piles

Piles shall be pitched accurately in the positions as shown on the Drawings.

At all stages during driving and until the pile has set or been driven to the
required length, all exposed piles shall be adequately supported and
restrained by means of leaders, trestles, temporary supports or other guide
arrangements to maintain position and alignment and to prevent buckling and
damage to the piles.

[Link] Driving of Piles

Each pile shall be driven continuously until the specified set and/or depth has
been reached, unless, otherwise approved by the Engineer. The driving
equipment used shall be of such type and capacity to the approval of the
Engineer. A follower (long dolly) shall not be used unless otherwise approved
by the Engineer.

A detailed record of the driving resistance over the full length of each pile
shall be kept. The log shall record the number of blows for every 0.5 m of pile
penetration. The Contractor shall inform the Engineer without delay if an
unexpected change in driving characteristics is encountered.

Where required by the Engineer, set shall be taken at approved intervals

during the driving to establish the behaviour of the piles. A set shall be taken
only in the presence of the Engineer. unless otherwise approved. The
Contractor shall provide all facilities to enable the Engineer to check driving
resistances. The final set of a pile other than as friction pile, shall be recorded
as the penetration in milimeters per 10 blows. The temporary compression of
the pile shall be recorded if required.

Piles shall be driven in an approved sequence to minimise the detrimental

effects of heave and lateral displacement of the ground. Piles which have
been displaced as a result of driving adjacent piles shall be re-driven to the
required resistance.

Piling equipment, set calculations and format of piling record form shall be
submitted to the Engineer for approval two weeks prior to piling operation.

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SPECIFICATION

[Link] Repair of Damaged Pile Heads

If a pile is to be subjected to further driving, concrete in the damaged pile

head shall be cut off square at sound concrete, and all loose particles shall
be removed by wire brushing, followed by washing with water. Care shall be
exercised to ensure that the reinforcement in the pile head is not in any way
damaged. Any damaged reinforcement shall be made good to the satisfaction
of the Engineer. The head shall be replaced with concrete of an approved
grade. The new head shall be cast truly in line with the remainder of the pile
and be properly cured and allowed to harden sufficiently to develop the
strength necessary for further driving.

If a pile has been driven to the required set or depth but sound concrete of
the pile is below cut-off level, the pile shall be made good to the cut-off level
as described above.

[Link] Lengthening of Piles

Where piles have to be lengthened, other than by means of welding of steel

plates as detailed on the Drawings, the reinforcement shall be stripped of all
surrounding concrete for a distance equal to thirty times the diameter of the
main reinforcement measured from the pile head for spliced joints and 300
mm for butt welded joints and all lateral reinforcement shall be removed. The
lengthening bars shall butt on the exposed bars in true alignment and shall be
butt welded as specified or shall be spliced with bars of the same diameter as
the main pile bars, 60 diameters in length and lapping the main bars for a
distance of 30 diameters above and below the joint, and shall be securely
bound with 1.63 mm soft annealed iron wire. New binders of similar size shall
be provided and spaced at half the centres of the binders in the main body of
the pile and shall be securely bound with 1.63 mm soft annealed iron wire
and the pile extended by concreting in properly constructed mounds to the
length required.

Care shall be taken to form the joint between the old and new concrete as
specified herein before. The extension shall be truly in line with the remainder
of the pile, and be properly cured and allowed to harden sufficiently to
develop the strength necessary for further driving.

[Link] Cutting and Preparation of Pile Heads

When a pile has been driven to the required set or depth, the head of the pile
shall be cut off to the level specified or shown on the Drawings. The top of
the pile is to be thoroughly scabbed by totally removing all of the laitance and
the weak concrete. This is to ensure that it can be properly keyed into the
pile cap. Refer also to Clause 9.6.1 of Section 9 – Concrete. The length of
reinforcing bars projecting above this level shall be as shown or specified on
the Drawings. If the length of reinforcing bars left projecting is insufficient,
then they shall be extended by either of the following methods :-

(a) Butt Welding

The extension bars shall butt on the projecting bars in true alignment
and shall be butt welded in accordance with Sub-Section [Link] of this
Specification.

(b) Splicing

The projecting bars shall be stripped of all surrounding concrete as

necessary to allow splices of length 60 diameters with extension bars.
The extension bars shall be securely bound to the projecting bars with
1.63 mm soft annealed iron wire. The concrete of the pile shall be

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SPECIFICATION

made good either before or together with casting of the pile cap, all to
the satisfaction of the Engineer.

Care shall be taken to avoid cracking or otherwise damaging the rest of

the pile. Any cracked or defective concrete shall be cut away and made
good with new concrete properly bonded to the old.

[Link] Strength of Piles

Piles shall not be driven until the concrete has achieved the specified
characteristic strength.

[Link] Leaders and Trestles

At all stages during driving and until incorporation into the superstructure, the
pile shall be adequately supported and restrained by means of leaders,
trestles, temporary supports or other guide arrangements to maintain position
and alignment and to prevent buckling. These arrangements shall be such
that damage to the pile does not occur.

[Link] Performance Of Driving Equipment

The contractor shall satisfy the Engineer. regarding the suitability, efficiency
and energy of the driving equipment. Where required, dynamic evaluation
and analysis shall be provided.

Where a drop hammer is used, the mass of the hammer shall be at least half
that of the pile at the moment of driving unless otherwise approved by the
Engineer. For other types of hammer the energy delivered to the pile per
blow shall be at least equivalent to that of a drop hammer of the stated mass.
Drop hammers shall not be used from floating craft in such a manner as to
cause instability of the craft or damage to the pile.

[Link] Length of Piles

The length of pile supplied to be driven in any position and any additional
lengths to be added during driving shall be approved prior to the
commencement of pile-driving. During the execution of the works any
changes to the supplied lengths shall be approved.

[Link] Driving Procedure and Redrive Checks

The driving of each pile shall be continuous until the specified depth and/or
resistance or set has been reached. In the event of unavoidable interruption
to driving, the pile will be accepted provided it can subsequently be driven to
the specified depth and/or resistance or set without damage. A follower shall
only be used when approved, in which case the Engineer. will require the set
where applicable to be revised in order to take into account reduction in the
effectiveness of the hammer blow.

The contractor shall inform the Engineer. without delay if an unexpected

change in driving characteristics is noted. A detailed record of the driving
resistance over the full length of the nearest available pile shall be taken if
required.

At the start of the work in a new area or section a detailed driving record shall
be made over the full length of the first pile and during the last 3m of
subsequent piles until consistency of behaviour is established. Where
required, detailed driving records shall also be made for the piles driven, the
positions of such piles being specified by the Engineer.

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SPECIFICATION

The contractor shall give adequate notice and provide all necessary facilities
to enable the Engineer. to check driving resistance. A set or resistance
measurement shall be taken only in the presence of the Engineer. unless
otherwise approved.

Redrive checks, if required, shall be carried out to an approved procedure.

[Link] Final Set

When driving to a set criterion, the final set of each pile shall be recorded
either as the penetration in millimetres per 10 blows or as the number of
blows required to produce a penetration of 25mm.

When a final set is being measured, the following requirements shall be met:-

(i) The exposed part of the pile shall be in good condition, without damage
or distortion;

(ii) The helmet, dolly and any packing shall be in sound condition;

(iii) The hammer blow shall be in line with the pile axis and the impact
surfaces shall be flat and at right angles to the pile and hammer axis;

(iv) The hammer shall be in good condition, delivering adequate energy per
blow, and operating correctly;

(v) The temporary compression of the pile shall be recorded if required.

[Link] Driving Sequence and Risen Piles

Piles shall be driven in an approved sequence to minimise the detrimental

effects of heave and lateral displacement of the ground.

When required, levels and measurements shall be taken to determine the

movement of the ground or of any pile resulting from the driving process.

When a pile has risen as a result of adjacent piles being driven, the Engineer
may call for redriving or other testing to demonstrate that the performance of
the pile is unimpaired. If required, the contractor shall made proposals for
correcting piles detrimentally affected and for avoidance or control of heave
effects in subsequent work.

[Link] Preboring

If preboring is specified, the diameter and depth of prebore shall be as shown

on the drawings or stipulated in the Particular Specification.

[Link] Jetting

Jetting shall be carried out only when the contractor’s detailed proposals
have been approved.

[Link] Repair Of Damaged Pile Heads

If it is necessary to repair the head of a pile driving, the contractor shall carry
out such repair in an approved way which allows the pile driving to be
completed without further damage. If the driving of a pile has been accepted
but sound concrete of the pile is below the required cut-off-level, the pile shall
be made good to the cut-off level, using an approved method so that it will
safely withstand the imposed design load.

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SPECIFICATION

10.4 PRESTRESSED SPUN CONCRETE PILES

10.4.1 Description

This work shall comprise the supply and installation of prestressed spun
concrete piles, inclusive of pitching and driving, lengthening and cutting and
preparation of pile heads, all in accordance with this Specification and to the
details shown on the Drawings.

10.4.2 Materials

[Link] Concrete

Unless otherwise specified, ordinary Portland cement shall be used for the
casting of piles. The materials and workmanship shall be as specified under
Section 9 of this Specification. The grade of concrete to be used shall be as
shown on the Drawings.

[Link] Reinforcement

The prestressing tendons and the non-prestressing reinforcement of the piles

including workmanship shall be as specified under Sections 11 and 9
respectively of this specification and to the details as shown on the Drawings.

[Link] End Plates

Details of end plates of each length of pile shall be as shown on the

Drawings.

Each end plate shall be machine-finished and provided with a chamfer to

accommodate the welding when two lengths of piles are jointed.

[Link] Pile Shoes

If specified, the type of pile shoes to be used shall be as shown on the

Drawings and shall be in accordance with Sub-Section [Link].

[Link] Pile Joints

The joints shall refer to Sub-Section [Link].

[Link] Pile Toes

The pile toe shall refer to Sub-Section [Link].

[Link] Tolerances in Pile Dimensions

The limiting tolerance in pile dimension shall refer to Sub-Section [Link]

10.4.3 Manufacture and Storage of Prestressed Spun Concrete Piles

[Link] Casting

The length of piles to be cast shall be as shown on the Drawings, subject to

revision by the Engineer. Based on the results of pile driving resistance
and/or load tests carried out on piles driven on the site, the Engineer may
from time to time order the lengths of piles to be modified.

Piles shall be hollow cylinders manufactured by the centrifugal casting

process. Moulds shall be of metal, well braced and stiffened against
deformations cause by the hydrostatic pressure of the wet concrete while

Specification for Piling - spun pile 2014 S10-13

SPECIFICATION

spinning. The metal forms shall have smooth joints and inside surfaces. The
forms shall be accessible for adequate cleaning.

The spiral reinforcement shall be securely held to the longitudinal

reinforcement during casting and spinning. Any welding used shall not affect
the strength of the prestressing tendons.

The piles shall not be removed from the moulds until after the specified
transfer strength is achieved.

The external diameter and the thickness of the pile shall not be less than that
shown on the Drawings and shall be constant over the entire length of the
pile and coaxial with the end plate at each end.

After a pile has been cast, the date of casting, reference number and length
shall be clearly marked with indeletable marking on the top surface and on
the head of the pile. In addition, each pile shall be marked at intervals of 0.5
m along its length before being driven.

[Link] Handling and Storage

The method and sequence of lifting, handling, transporting and storing piles
shall be such that piles are not damaged. Only the designed lifting and
support points shall be used.

All piles within a stack shall be in groups of the same length. Packings of
uniform thicknesses shall be provided between piles at the lifting points.

10.4.4 Installation of Prestressed Spun Concrete Piles

The installation of prestressed spun concrete piles shall be in accordance to

sub-section 10.3.4.

10.5 BORED CAST-IN-PLACE PILES (NOT APPLICABLE)

10.6 MICROPILES (NOT APPLICABLE)

10.7 PILE MAINTAIN LOAD TESTING

10.7.1 Test Piles

In order to determine the required length of pile at each location, the

Contractor shall drive test piles or pilot piles as shown on the Drawings
and/or as instructed by the Engineer. Test piles shall be driven with the same
hammer that is used for driving foundation piles.

Piles selected by the Engineer shall be tested and the Contractor shall give
the Engineer at least 24 hours notice of the commencement of the test.

The test load shall be applied by a method approved by the Engineer.

10.7.2 Preliminary Pile Load Tests

The Contractor shall use the information obtained from pre-Contract soil
survey and/or preliminary pile load tests at the commencement of the Works
to assess and determine the founding levels of the piles and thus determine
the supply lengths of piles.

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SPECIFICATION

It is the responsibility of the Contractor to assess, determine and provide

adequate lengths of piles required for the completion of the Works without
causing unnecessary delay due to inadequate supply of the piles.

The Contractor shall not proceed to manufacture or supply the piles until he
has received approval, in writing, on his proposed pile lengths and pile length
combinations from the Engineer.

The length of the piles for the preliminary load tests shall be determined by
the Engineer.

10.7.3 Production Pile Load Tests

Load tests shall also be carried out during the installation of piles for the
permanent Works. Such pile load tests shall be referred to as production pile
load tests.

For the purpose of pile testing at least 5 pilot working piles shall be driven at
locations approved by the Engineer. One or more piles may be selected for
testing.

The used of working piles as tension reaction pile for the purpose of these
tests will not be permitted.

10.7.4 Testing Procedure

[Link] Preparation of Test Pile

The pile head shall be cut off or built up to the necessary elevation and shall
be capped appropriately to produce a bearing surface perpendicular to the
axis of the pile. The arrangement shall be such that none of the test load is
carried by the ground under the cap.

[Link] Method of Loading

The test load shall be applied in one of the following ways :-

(i) by means of a jack which obtains its reaction from kentledge heavier
than the required load;

(ii) by means of a jack which obtains its reaction from tension piles or other
suitable anchors.

The load shall be measured using a calibrated load gauge and also a
calibrated pressure gauge in the hydraulic system. The jack and load gauge
shall be carefully aligned so that the load applied is co-axial with the pile.

When method (i) is used, care shall be taken to ensure that the centre of
gravity of the kentledge is on the axis of the pile. The nearest edge of the crib
supporting the kentledge stack shall not be closer than 1.3 m to the surface of
the test pile. Kentledge shall not be used for testing raked piles.

When method (ii) is used, all anchor piles shall be at a distance of at least
three (3) pile shaft diameters from the test pile, centre to centre, and in no
case shall they be less than 2 m from the test pile.

Method (ii) shall not be used without prior approval from the Engineer.

If the anchor piles are to be permanent working piles, their levels shall be
observed during application of the test load to ensure no residual uplift
occurs.

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SPECIFICATION

Unless otherwise stated, load cells should be used for load measurement.
All load measuring devices shall be calibrated before and after each series of
tests, whenever adjustments or replacements are made to the devices or at
the intervals recommended by the manufacturer of the equipment. Pressure
gauges and hydraulic jacks shall be calibrated together. Certificates of
calibration from an approved testing house shall be supplied to the Engineer
for acceptance.

The Contractor’s proposed method of measuring the movement of pile heads

shall be submitted to the Engineer for approval.

[Link] Measurement of Settlement

Settlements shall be measured by use of a reference beam supported

independently of the test pile, reaction pile or piles supporting reaction loads.
Settlements shall be measured to the nearest 0.1 mm. The reference beam
supports shall be located at least 3 m from the load test pile, reaction pile or
piles supporting reaction loads. The reference beams shall be protected from
the effects of temperature changes. A minimum of 3 no. settlement gauges
shall be used and all these gauges shall be calibrated.

10.7.5 Method of Testing

[Link] General

Maintained Load Tests shall be conducted on test piles as selected by the

Engineer. The loading tests shall be carried out in accordance with Sub-
Section [Link].

When instructed or approved by the Engineer, Constant Rate of Penetration

Tests shall also be conducted on other piles. The tests shall be carried out in
accordance with Sub-Section [Link].

Two weeks prior to the performance of any load test, the Contractor shall
submit to the Engineer for his approval, working drawings showing the
method and equipment he proposes to use in the performance of the load
test and the measurement of settlements. Such submission shall include
design calculations of lateral supports or other methods to be used in
ensuring against buckling. Horizontal supports to ensure buckling stability
shall be provided to the pile to be loaded whenever the ratio of the
unsupported height to the least cross-sectional dimension is 20 or more.
Horizontal supports shall provide full support without restraining the vertical
movement of the pile in any way.

The testing equipment must at all times be maintained in good condition.

The pump, jack and all testing equipment shall be calibrated. All calibration
shall be conducted by an approved laboratory with the necessary equipment
and must be certified.

The calibration shall be carried out no longer than three (3) months prior to
using the equipment on site. If any incident occurs during transportation,
handling or tensioning which may have caused damage, the equipment shall
be recalibrated.

The calibration certificate shall be submitted to the Engineer and the work
can only commence after the Engineer is satisfied with the certificates.

[Link] Maintained Load Test

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SPECIFICATION

The Maintained Load Test shall be carried out as follows :-

(i) The full test load on a preliminary test pile shall be 2.5 times the design
load or failure whichever come first. Three load circles shall be applied
for the preliminary pile load test. For the first circle, four load
increments shall be applied upto the pile design load (maintained for
minimum 12 hours) and then be unloaded in 3 equal increments until
the full load is removed. For the second circle, 8 load increments shall
be applied upto 2.0 times the design load (maintained for minimum 24
hours) and then be unloaded in 4 equal increments until the full load is
removed. For the third circle, 6 load increments (50% of the pile design
load at each interval upto 2.0 times the design load and 25%
thereafter) shall be applied upto 2.5 times the design load or failure
whichever come first (maintained for minimum 6 hours) and then be
unloaded in 5 equal increments until the full load is removed. At least
one hour shall elapse between the addition of each increment or until
the rate of settlement is reduced to less than 0.25 mm/hour and
slowing down. Settlement readings shall be made immediately after
and before every load increment is applied or removed;

(ii) The full test load on a working test pile shall be 2.0 times the design
load and subjected to two load circles. For the first circle, four load
increments shall be applied upto the pile design load (maintained for
minimum 12 hours) and then be unloaded in 3 equal increments until
the full load is removed. For the second circle, 8 load increments shall
be applied upto 2.0 times the design load (maintained for minimum 24
hours) and then be unloaded in 4 equal increments until the full load is
removed. At least one hour shall elapse between the addition of each
increment or until the rate of settlement is reduced to less than 0.25
mm/hour and slowing down. Settlement readings shall be made
immediately after and before every load increment is applied or
removed;

Each increment of load shall be measured within an accuracy of 2%.

Movements shall be measured within an accuracy of 0.25 mm. An
independent reference frame or wire shall be set up to permit measurement
of pile movement. Dial gauges shall be accurate to within 0.1 mm. Overall
movements shall be checked by optical or any other leveling method by
reference to an external datum.

[Link] Constant Rate of Penetration (CRP) Test

For each pile load test, three cycles of pile loading test at a constant rate of
penetration shall be carried out to a full test load equal to twice the design
load.

The rate of loading shall be such that a constant rate of penetration is

maintained throughout the test insofar as is practicable. The rate of
movement of each pile to be tested shall be agreed upon with the Engineer
prior to the start of the test. At least twelve readings of settlements and their
corresponding loads shall be made in the loading process.

After attaining a test load equal to twice the design load, the load shall
gradually be released and at least four readings of settlement and their
corresponding loads shall be made during the unloading process. The
settlement obtained when the load has been completely released shall also
be recorded. An interval of at least 15 minutes shall elapse before the next
CRP test is commenced.

Each increment of test load shall be measured within an accuracy of 2%.

Movements shall be measured within an accuracy of 0.25 mm.

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SPECIFICATION

10.7.6 Submission of Results

Full test data and results shall be jointly signed by the Engineer’s
representative and the Contractor’s authorised agent immediately upon the
completion of the test, and shall consist of the following:-

(i) for the Maintained Load Test, for each stage of loading, the period for
which the load was held, the load and the maximum settlement. These
are to be plotted as time-settlement graphs.

(ii) for the CRP test, the maximum load reached and a graph of load
against penetration.

The Contractor shall, within 24 hours of the completion of the test, submit to
the Engineer for each pile tested graphs showing:

(i) Load and settlement plotted above and below a common base line of
time.

(ii) Settlement and recovery plotted vertically against a base line of load.

The Contractor shall, within seven working days of the completion of the test,
submit to the Engineer in writing, a complete schedule of data as listed
below:

(i) Test pile:

(a) Pile diameter

(b) RL of top of pile
(c) RL of bottom of pile
(d) Concrete strength when tested
(e) Data cast
(f) Date tested
(g) Length of reinforcement cage
(h) Water table below ground level
(i) Length of casing
(j) Description of soil for the length of pile

(ii) Test layout and equipment including:

(a) Sketches and, if possible, photographs showing:

• Location and size of reaction and loading equipment.

• Deflection measuring equipment.
• Test pile and cap
• Position of reference level marks.

(b) An assessment of the accuracy of the deflection measurement

with particular reference to movement of supports of reference
beams or wires due to variations in loading or temperature.

(c) The results of calibration of the load measuring equipment.

(iii) Test procedure and results including:

(a) A tabulations of readings during loading and unloading.

(b) A load settlement curve.

(c) A time settlement curve.

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SPECIFICATION

These shall include any corrections required for calibration, movement of

datum points, etc.

10.7.7 Interpretation of Test Results

Unless otherwise specified, the pile so tested shall be deemed to have failed
if: -

(i) The residual settlement after removal of the test load exceeds 6.5mm,
or

(ii) The total settlement under the Working Load exceeds 12.5mm, or

(iii) The total settlement under twice the Working Load exceeds 38mm, or
10% of pile diameter / width whichever is the lower value.

10.8 DYNAMIC PILE TESTING

The Contractor shall secure the services of qualified independent Testing

Specialist with a minimum five (5) years experience in dynamic load testing.
The actual test shall be conducted and/or supervised by a experienced
trained personnel with at least two (2) years of dynamic testing experience.
Selection of the firm must be acceptable by the Engineer.

10.8.1 High Strain Dynamic Pile Testing (PDA)

[Link] General

Dynamic testing involves attaching two strain gages and two accelerometers
or any pile head movement measuring devices to the pile approximately 2 to
3 pile diameters below the pile head during initial driving or at a convenient
location during restrike testing. Records of force and velocity at pile under
drop weight impacts can be obtained and analyzed for evaluations of shaft
load carrying capacity, structural integrity, and load-movement and shaft-soil
load transfer relationships. (In most instances, the strain gages and
accelerometers on the test piles should be attached at 1m to 2m higher than
the ground so that gages are not driven into the ground.) A cable connects
the gages near the pile head with the Pile Driving Data Logging Device or
other equivalent proven system located at ground level and 15m to 30m from
the pile. The following are specifications for high-strain dynamic testing on
driven piles, drilled and cast-in-place foundation piles.

For driven piles, dynamic testing shall be performed on selected piles during
the final 5m of initial driving or/and during restrike driving a minimum setup
time of 1 day for piles driven into sandy soils or to hard rock and 7 days for
piles driven into silts, silty sands, clays or to soft rock such as shale after
initial driving or otherwise as instructed by the Engineer.

Dynamic pile testing shall also be performed on the specified fraction of total
production of driven piles as selected by the Engineer in any time during the
duration of the piling works. The production pile testing shall be performed
during initial driving and restrike driving to monitor hammer and drive system
performance, assess pile installation stresses and structural integrity, as well
as to evaluate static pile capacity. If the intent of the dynamic testing is
primarily to monitor driving system performance and driving stresses, then
testing should be performed during initial driving. If static pile capacity
evaluation is the primary purpose for testing, production pile testing should
also include restrike after time dependent soil strength changes. If all
dynamic testing information is desired, testing should be specified during both
initial and restrike driving. It should be noted that restrike testing of
production piles more than one day after installation may significantly alter

Specification for Piling - spun pile 2014 S10-19

SPECIFICATION

the contractor's sequencing. Therefore, the Contractor shall made provision

to these matters during the planning of works.

For drilled and cast-in-place shafts, it is intended that the test shaft be left in a
condition suitable for testing and use in finished structures after testing.

[Link] Equipment and Personnel

The dynamic monitoring shall be performed using a proven Pile Driving Data
Logging Device. All equipment necessary for the dynamic monitoring such
as gages, cables, etc., shall be furnished by the Dynamic Testing Specialist.
The equipment shall conform to the requirements of ASTM D-4945-89,
Standard Test Method for High Strain Dynamic Testing of Piles. An
experienced Engineer shall operate the Pile Driving Data Logging Device in
the field.

The Contractor shall provide the power supply to the test pile locations for the
dynamic testing duration. The power supply shall consist of a regular power
source (line power or portable generator) providing clean power of adequate
capacity. Direct current welders or non-constant power sources are
unacceptable.

The independent dynamic testing firm must supply the following testing
instrumentation in addition to that outlined in ASTM Standard D 4945-89,
Section 5:

• Pile Driving Data Logging Device or other equivalent proven system.

• Two calibrated strain transducers.
• Two calibrated accelerometers.

For high strain dynamic testing on drilled and cast-in-place shafts, the
equipment required to performing the test includes but is not limited to:

If a permanent casing is not used as a feature to construct the shaft, then a

shaft top extension, consisting of a thin walled casing or equivalent, shall be
used to extend the shaft by length equal to two pile diameters. This top
length, defined as the "test area"' must be exposed and readily accessible by
the testing Engineer at the time of the test. If the shaft top is below grade,
then the Contractor must have equipment available to remove surrounding
soil (creating a safe working environment) so as to completely expose a test
area of the shaft as described above. Openings on possibly two opposite
sides of the shaft may have to be cut off in the steel casing to reach the
concrete.

A drop weight in the range of one to two percent (1 - 2%) of the anticipated
pile capacity, or as determined by the Engineer, shall be used for PDA test. A
guide allowing variable drop heights typically from 1 and 2 m, or as
determined by the Engineer shall be adopted. A shaft top cushion consisting
of new sheets of plywood with total thickness from 50 to 150 mm, or as
determined by the Engineer shall be used.

A steel striker plate with a thickness of at least 50 mm and an area between

70 to 90% of shaft top area but not less than the area of the impacting
surface of the drop weight to be placed on top of the plywood cushion.

If protruding reinforcing bars are present, the Contractor has the option to
incorporate the reinforcing steel in the test area. Upon successful completion
of the dynamic test, the surrounding concrete can then be removed as to
make the pile suitable for use in the structure. If the Contractor selects not to
incorporate the steel in such a manner as described above, then a steel
beam or pipe (cross sectional area approximately 20% of the shaft cross
sectional area) shall be supplied with sufficient length such that the ram
Specification for Piling - spun pile 2014 S10-20
SPECIFICATION

impact will not interfere with the reinforcing bars. Steel striker plates and
plywood cushion must also be sized so that they cover as much of the impact
area as possible. However, this alternative should subject to the Engineer’s
approval.

[Link] Execution

Prior to lifting the pile to be dynamically tested, the Contractor shall provide a
minimum of 1m of clear access to 180 degree opposite faces of the pile for
preparation works. The Dynamic Testing Specialist or the Contractor's
personnel shall then drill and prepare holes for gage attachment.

The Contractor's personnel shall attach the gages to the pile after the pile has
been driven to the penetration depths. Driving shall then continue using
routine pile installation procedures. When the level of the gages is within
300mm of the ground surface, water surface, or a pile template, driving shall
be halted to remove the gages from the pile. If additional driving is required,
the pile shall be spliced and the gages shall be reattached to the head of the
next pile segment prior to the resumption of driving.

[Link] Testing Procedures

(i) Pre-installation Wave Equation Analyses

Ten days prior to driving the indicator piles or the production piles, the
Contractor shall submit the complete pile driving equipment data, soil
boring logs, pile installation records on adjacent installed piles, pile
material records and details to the Engineer and the Testing Specialist.
The Testing Specialist shall interpret the submitted information, perform
the wave equation analyses using the proven analysis program to
assess the suitability of the hammer and driving system, to determine
an acceptable range of ram drop heights, which will not cause damage
in the pile/shaft during the test. A summary report shall be prepared
upon completion of the wave equation results. The wave equation
analyses shall be used to assess the ability of the proposed driving
system to install the pile to the required capacity and desired
penetration depth within the allowable driving stresses.

Approval of the proposed driving system by the Engineer shall be

based upon the wave equation analyses indicating that the proposed
driving system can develop a pile capacity with a minimum safety factor
of 2.5 or safety factor specified by the Engineer and produce impact
within allowable driving stress limits. The purpose of this section is to
specify a hammer capable of installing the piles to the desired depth
and capacity in the event of unexpected soil behavior or poor driving
system performance.

A new pile driving system, modifications to existing system, or new pile

installation procedures shall be proposed by the Contractor if the pile
installation stresses predicted by wave equation analysis or calculated
by the Pile Driving Data Logging Device exceed the following maximum
values:

TABLE 10.5 - FHWA RECOMMENDED DRIVING STRESSES

Pile type Compression stress Tension stress

Steel 0.9 Fy 0.9 Fy
Prestressed concrete 0.85 f'c - fpe 3 (f'c)1/2 + fpe
Precast concrete/drilled shaft 0.85 f'c 3 (f'c)1/2

Notes: Fy = Steel yield strength in psi

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SPECIFICATION

f'c = Concrete compressive (cylinder) strength in psi

fpe = Effective prestress after losses in psi
(1 psi = 6.8948 kPa)

(ii) Indicator Pile Program

Indicator piles shall be driven to a capacity of 2.5 times the design load
or specified by the Engineer otherwise based upon the preliminary
driving resistance indicated by wave equation results. The Engineer
may also select other safety factors depending upon structural
considerations and subsurface variability. Adjustments to the
preliminary driving criteria may be made by the Engineer based upon
the dynamic testing information. Alternatively, in localities where
significant soil setup effects are known to exist, specifications may
require a minimum pile penetration depth or to drive indicator piles to
preselected variable depths regardless of driving resistance or end of
driving capacity. Restrike dynamic testing is then essential to evaluate
pile capacities after soil setup.

Based upon the dynamic testing results, driving records and

subsurface conditions, the Engineer shall (may) select some numbers
of indicator piles to be statically load tested in accordance with the
relevant specification for static pile load testing.

All indicator piles shall be re-driven with dynamic testing after a

minimum waiting period or to Engineer approval.

(iii) Production Pile Testing

Dynamic pile testing shall be performed on the selected production

piles during initial driving and restrike driving over the duration of the
production pile installation.

The Engineer may request additional piles to be dynamically tested if

the hammer and/or driving system is replaced or modified, the pile type
or installation procedures are modified, the pile capacity requirements
are changed, unusual blow counts or penetrations are observed on any
other piling behaviors differ from normal installation.

(iv) Bored and Cast-In-Place Piles

The additional requirements for a dynamic testing on bored and cast-in-

place piles are as follows:

The test shaft shall be constructed using the approved installation

techniques.

If a permanent casing is not required, then the upper length equal to

two shaft diameters, noted as the "test area", must be cased in a thin
wall tube or equivalent as noted above. Casing of this test area must
be made as a continuation of the construction of the shaft. There
should not be soil contamination or non-uniformities in the concrete
located within or below the test area. Shaft top shall be made level to
the casing and smoothed.

Prior to testing time, the Contractor shall make the shaft test area
length completely accessible to the testing Engineer.

Prior to the test two openings (approximate size of 150 by 150 mm)
diametrically opposite of each other will be located and removed from
the casing if appropriate.

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SPECIFICATION

In cases where casing is not present, the testing shall smooth (by
grinding) areas around the pile circumference such that proper gage
attachment can be accomplished.

Gages shall be attached by the testing Engineer to the exposed

concrete or steel casing in a secure manner as to prevent slippage
under impact.

Shaft top should be examined to insure concrete is flush with or above

the casing.

Apply plywood cushion and then striker plate to the shaft top. If
reinforcing protrudes from the shaft top, then the steel beam or pipe
(used to transfer the impact to the shaft top) should be secured in such
a manner as not to move under impact.

At least two (2) hammer impacts should be applied to the pile top. First
drop height should be minimal to allow the testing Engineer to assess
the testing equipment, the driving system and pile stresses.
Subsequent impacts can then be applied by utilizing higher drop
heights.

Upon completion of the test, it is the Contractors' responsibility to return

the pile to acceptable production condition.

[Link] Dynamic Testing Reports

Whenever the CAPWAP analysis (CAse Pile Wave Analysis Program) or

other equivalent proven analysis is required, the following must be provided:

(i) Indicator Pile Program

The Dynamic Testing Specialist shall prepare a written report of the

indicator pile program. This report shall include the results of static
load test(s) (if performed) and shall contain a discussion of the pile
capacity obtained from the dynamic and static testing (if performed).
The report shall also discuss hammer and driving system performance,
driving stress levels, and pile integrity.

Wave analyses or other proven wave analyses of the dynamic pile

testing data shall be performed on data obtained from the end of initial
driving and the beginning of restrike of all indicator piles. All key inputs
and assumptions on inputs for such analysis shall be discussed and
presented in the report. The Engineer may request additional analyses
at selected pile penetration depths.

The Dynamic Testing Specialist shall perform a refined wave equation

analysis or analyses based upon the variations in the subsurface
conditions and/or driving system performance observed in the indicator
pile program results.

(ii) Production Piles

Within one day of production pile testing, the Dynamic Testing

Specialist shall prepare a hand written daily field report summarizing
the dynamic testing results. As a minimum, the daily reports shall
included the calculated driving stresses, transferred energy, and
estimated pile capacity at the time of testing if there is any testing.
Variations from previous trends in the dynamic test data shall also be
noted. Daily field reports shall be faxed to the Engineer within the day
of testing.

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SPECIFICATION

The Dynamic Testing Specialist shall prepare a typed formal report

summarizing the dynamic testing results as mentioned before. The
Dynamic Testing Specialist shall submit the report with all raw data of
dynamically tested piles in diskette form for record purposes.

(iii) Bored and Cast-In-Place Piles

The requirements for report on bored and cast-in-place piles are same
as the one for driven piles.

10.8.2 Load Testing for Piles Under Rapid Axial Compression Load (Statnamic Test)

[Link] Scope

This section covers the procedure for testing vertical or batter piles
individually or groups of vertical piles to determine the load and displacement
response of the pile or pile group to a rapid compressive load applied axially
to the pile or piles within the group.

[Link] Referenced Documents

ASTM Standards:
D 1143 Standard Test Method for Piles Under Static Axial Compressive Load
D 4945 Standard Test Method for High-Strain Testing of Piles

[Link] Method Statement

The Contractor shall submit a method statement giving full details of the
materials, plant and operation he intend to adopt for the pile testing using a
rapid compressive load applied axially to the piles or piles within the group at
least two weeks before commencement of the test . Pile testing work shall
not commence until approval of the Engineer has been obtained.

[Link] Terminology

Descriptions of Terms Specific to this Specification:

Natural period – the natural, or fundamental, period represents the time

required for the pile to complete one vibration cycle. For axial loading of a pile
the natural period may be considered equivalent to 2L/C seconds/cycle,
where L represents the pile length and C represents the strain wave speed.

Strain wave speed (or wave speed) – the speed with which a strain wave
propagates through a pile; it is a property of the pile composition.

Rapid load – a load of sufficient duration to result in the full length of the pile
being maintained in compression for a duration of at least five multiples of the
natural period of the foundation. The load should be applied in a continuously
increasing and continuously decreasing manner, without shock to the pile. A
typical rapid loading event is shown in Figure 10.1.

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SPECIFICATION

1400

1200

Magnitude of Applied Load

1000

800

600

400

200

0 50 100 150 200

Time (ms)

Note: The suggested duration for a rapid load is between 10 L/C and
1000 L/C.

FIGURE 10.1 – TYPICAL RAPID AXIAL COMPRESSIVE LOAD

[Link] Apparatus

(i) Rapid Loading Apparatus

Either a jack-type rapid loading apparatus or a drop mass-type rapid

loading apparatus may be used for the test as specified in ASTM
D1143. Acceptable methods of generating load, include: pneumatic
pressure, hydraulic pressure, pressure of gases produced by
combustion, and pressure induced by a cushioned impact from a drop
mass. The Contractor shall incorporate the details of the apparatus he
intend to use for the test in his method statement submission.

(ii) Apparatus for Obtaining Measurements of the Pile Response During

Rapid Loading

The apparatus for measuring the applied load to the pile shall consist of
a calibrated load cell mounted directly between the loading device and
the pile head. The load cell shall be calibrated prior to the test to an
accuracy of not less than 2% of the applied load and have a rated
ultimate capacity in excess of the test load.

The primary apparatus for measuring the displacement at the pile head
shall consist of a calibrated displacement transducer. The device shall
be capable of measuring displacements directly and continuously over
a minimum range of 50mm (2 in.). Larger range transducers should be
provided when larger pile displacements are anticipated. The
transducer shall have a precision of at least 0.25 mm (0.01 in.). The
displacement transducer shall be positioned on the pile or pile cap
central and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pile to ensure that
mean and not eccentric displacements are measured. The
displacement shall be measured using a stationary reference. The
displacement reference is set at such a position (not less than 15 m (50
ft) from the test pile) such that measurements are not influenced by
test-induced disturbances. For pile groups, several displacement
transducers should be positioned such that any differential
displacement of the pile cap or loading frame is measured.

The apparatus for measuring pile head acceleration shall consist of a

minimum of two calibrated acceleration transducers. The bias and
response frequency of the accelerometers shall be appropriate for
rapid loading excitation. Typical peak accelerations for this test method
Specification for Piling - spun pile 2014 S10-25
SPECIFICATION

are between 20 m/s2 (66 ft/s2) and 200 m/s2 (660 ft/s2). The
accelerometers shall serve as a secondary apparatus for measuring
pile head displacement and shall be securely attached to opposing
sides of the pile at equal distances to the central longitudinal axis. Bolt-
on, glue-on, or weld-on accelerometers are acceptable. Several
accelerometers shall be used for a pile group to measure differential
accelerations.

(iii) Apparatus for Recording, Reducing and Displaying Data

The signals from the transducers shall be transmitted to a system to

collect the data and store it in either analogue or digital form. The
collection and storage system shall be connected to a system to
graphically or numerically display the results. The data acquisition
system shall be capable of acquiring a recorded signal with a minimum
of 50 milliseconds of pre-event data and 150 milliseconds of post-event
data.

Signal Conditioning – The signal conditioning of any signals shall not

create differential phase shift or differential amplification of individual
measurements.

Recording Apparatus – Signals from transducers shall be recorded

electronically in either analog or digital form so that frequency
components have a low pass cut-off frequency of not less than 100 Hz.
When digitizing, the sample frequency shall be not less than 1000 Hz
for each data channel. A sample frequency 2500 Hz is recommended.

Display Apparatus – Signals from the transducers shall be displayed by

means of an apparatus such as an oscilloscope, oscillograph, LCD
graphics screen, or computer monitor. The apparatus shall be capable
of displaying all signals with respect to time. The apparatus should
also be capable of displaying the measured load-displacement relation.

[Link] Procedure

(i) Preparation of Loading and Measuring Apparatus

Prior to testing, the loading apparatus shall be cleaned and greased,

any seals should be checked and replaced if nicked, worn or twisted.
Freedom of movement of the loading apparatus shall be demonstrated
prior to testing.

A check shall be made to ensure that the safety pressure release

mechanism, valve or rupture disk is in place, properly installed, not
obstructed or damaged.

A check shall be made of the silencer assembly (if applicable) for

obstructions, perforations or dents and the silencer exhaust shall be
checked for any damage or lodged material that may become air-born
with normal pressure release.

A check of the storage computer memory, or analog storage medium

shall be made to ensure sufficient storage space is available to acquire
and store the test data.

Any electronic connections shall be cleaned and inspected. Checks of

grounding and shielding shall be made prior to testing. A check shall
be performed on the data acquisition software and hardware, including
a trigger and calibration check using a simulated test signal of known
magnitude.

Specification for Piling - spun pile 2014 S10-26

SPECIFICATION

The resistance of the load cell shall be checked to ensure it is within

the specifications provided. A check of the displacement monitoring
system shall be made for adequate set up, stability, focus, and
direction, or other as required by the manufacturer.

(ii) Testing Procedure

The following steps shall be taken in the performance of a rapid axial

compressive load test.

The site shall be prepared within a 3 m (10 ft.) radius of the pile to be
tested. The area should be levelled. Where a soil base will be used to
support the loading apparatus the area should be compacted as
required. Where a fabricated platform is used, the structure must be
able to support all loads associated with the operation of the test
apparatus including assembly, conduction of the test and disassembly.

The top of the test pile shall be prepared to a smooth surface

perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the pile appropriate for
the application of the test load. The Engineer shall ensure that the pile
has adequate structural capacity for the anticipated test load.

Any pile top preparations or modifications shall be made such that

sound material evenly distributes the applied load to the pile top without
stress concentrations or discontinuities. The pile top shall be surveyed
and the pile top elevation shall be recorded.

Should any part of the test apparatus require attachment to the test
pile, adequate anchoring shall be used capable of withstanding any
loading induced during assembly, conduction of the test or
disassembly.

A calibration and trigger check shall be performed to ensure the data

acquisition system is operating properly and provides correct and
accurate values.

Ground vibrations should be minimized in the test area (neighbouring

vehicles or operating equipment) as required ensuring accurate
referencing for displacement monitoring. This may require a brief
suspension of construction activity to carry out the test.

The initiation and abatement of reaction mass shall be checked. The

rapid axial compressive load test shall be performed to peak load of a
minimum of two times the design load of the test pile or pile group. In
cases where this is not done, it shall be noted in the test reporting as a
deviation from the standard. A post-test load and displacement record
shall be taken.

The testing equipment shall be disassembled and a final survey of the

pile top shall be performed.

(iii) Analysis

Obtain the applied load, displacement and acceleration versus time

records for the rapid loading event, either from the apparatus for
recording data, or the apparatus for reducing data. Record the peak
applied load, peak displacement, and peak acceleration for the loading
event. Also record the residual or permanent displacement.

Specification for Piling - spun pile 2014 S10-27

SPECIFICATION

The measured applied load and displacement may be used to evaluate

the response of the pile to the rapid loading event.

[Link] Report

Within 3 days after completion of the test, the Contractor shall submit the test
report giving full details of the analysis from the pile load test as specified in
this Specification.

[Link] Safety Requirements

All operations in connection with load testing of the pile shall be carried out in
such a manner as to minimize, avoid, or eliminate the exposure of the work
place and personnel to hazards. The following safety considerations are to be
followed in addition to the general safety requirements applicable to all
construction activities. All applicable construction codes and regulations still
apply.

The load application device shall be carefully aligned and the mounting
system shall be secured concentrically and axially to ensure that it is not
dislodged during the test, and to ensure against eccentric loading or damage
of the pile.

The ground surrounding the test pile shall be adequately prepared, levelled or
compacted to support any test-produced loads and to prevent damage to the
pile, the test apparatus, or surrounding material.

The routine used to initiate loading shall ensure against premature initiation,
until such time as all recommended checks are completed and personnel are
clear of the test area. A key operated initiation device is recommended.

Any mechanisms, seals, lubrication or preparations shall be checked for

condition and replaced as necessary to prevent unsafe conditions before,
during or after the test event.

Where applicable a clear zone is to be established around the test device as

a precaution against harm to personnel or equipment. A clear zone of 20 m
(66 ft.) is required.

If compressed gas is used in the production of the load, an adequate system

for the safe venting or dispensing of the gas must be provided. Control of
any venting noises must be made to accommodate governing noise
limitations.

Loads shall not be hoisted, swung, or suspended over anyone and shall be
controlled by tag lines. Only authorized personnel shall be permitted within
the immediate test area.

10.9 INTEGRITY TESTING OF PILES

10.9.1 General

Piles shall be selected by the Engineer for testing and detection of major faults,
necking, discontinuities, and cross sectional areas of the piles. Integrity
testing of piles shall be carried out by an independent testing organisation
approved by the Engineer.

Method statement giving full details of the test shall be submitted to Engineer
for approval at least two weeks before commencement of the Test. The test
can only be carried out upon Engineer’s approval in writing.

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SPECIFICATION

If the results of the tests show that the pile or piles are defective, the pile or
piles shall be treated as faulty and shall be rejected unless the Contractor can
demonstrate to the approval of the Engineer effective remedial measures that
will be carried out.

The results of tests shall be printed out immediately during tests with printer
facility at site and submit to Engineer at site. The Engineer's interpretations
and conclusions arrived at on the test results shall be final.

Working piles shall be subjected to shock method and sonic logging tests.

10.9.2 Shock Method

(a) Preparation of the Pile Head

The pile head shall be clearly exposed, free from debris, etc. and not
more than 1.0 metre above or below ground level, otherwise the
surrounding soil shall be built up or excavated to meet this condition.
The pile head shall be smooth over its complete cross-section, free
from irregularities and perpendicular to the vertical axis of the pile.

The pile head shall consist of sound concrete. This shall be achieved
during the concreting of the pile by flushing out all weak mortar, etc.
from the top of the pile head and carefully screeding off to provide a
smooth level surface in sound concrete. Alternatively, if the pile head is
prepared after concreting, all weak mortar, broken concrete, etc. shall
be removed from the pile head to expose sound concrete over its
complete cross-section. After cleaning it off to ensure a sound bond, a
very thin screed (maximum 1cm) of strong sand/cement mortar, rapid
hardening compound, shall be spread to provide a smooth working
surface for the shock test equipment. The mortar shall be allowed to
harden before testing.

Any reinforcement or other inclusions protruding from the pile head

shall not prevent the testing team from giving the pile the required
impact force over the centre of the pile and the placing of a 5cm
diameter (approx.) electronic pick-up at about 10cm from the periphery
of the pile. Access shall be provided for the service van within 30
metres of the pile.

(b) Shock Test Equipment

The shock which is to be imparted onto the pile head shall be carried
out using a suitable hammer or any approved method which is capable
of transmitting vibration to the base of the pile shaft. The electronic
pick-ups located on the pile head shall be approved velocity
transducers or accelerometers connected through an approved
frequency analyser to a X-Y plotter. The mechanical admittance shall
be plotted on a vertical scale and the frequency on the horizontal scale.
Both the horizontal and vertical scales shall be varied as required. The
equipment shall have an independent power supply.

(c) Shock Test

The Contractor shall provide the qualified and experienced testing team
with a site plan showing the pile layout and a list of the piles to be
tested.

Before testing, the heads of the piles shall be inspected by the testing
team for regularity and soundness and any unsatisfactory pile heads
shall be reported to the Engineer. They shall be made good to the
satisfaction of the Engineer and smoothed off using a suitable epoxy

Specification for Piling - spun pile 2014 S10-29

SPECIFICATION

mortar if necessary. Preliminary tests shall be carried out to establish

the appropriate scales and to check the electronic circuit.

10.9.3 Sonic Logging Method

(a) General

For the purpose of carrying out sonic logging, the Contractor shall be
required to install the necessary tubing for the tests at all pile locations
or as directed by the Engineer.

The tubes shall be of internal diameter not less than 50mm with no
internal projections or couplings. They can be of mild steel pipes. Four
(4) nos. of tubes are required for each pile greater than 700mm
diameter while two (2) nos. are required for each smaller diameter pile.

The tubes shall be fixed to the longitudinal bars with equal spacing on
the inside perimeter of the links. The tubes shall be watertight with the
bottom of the tube sealed and suitably weighted to prevent floating.
The tubes shall be secured to the internal face of the reinforcement
cage at equal distance from each other on the circumference.

The tubes shall extend the full depth of the pile and project 300mm
above the top of the concrete and not lower than 300mm below the
surface of the ground. All joints shall be made watertight. The tubes
shall be filled with water to provide the necessary acoustic coupling,
and then plugged or capped before concreting. The type of tube and
condition of sealing shall be checked and approved by the Engineer
before installation.

The rate of logging for increments of depth shall be approved by the

Engineer.

After conducting the tests, all tubes shall be grouted with approved
strength and water in the tubes displaced. The grout shall be dense
cement grout with an approved expanding agent.

Prior to testing, the necessary equipment shall be thoroughly checked

to ensure that all parts are functioning satisfactorily. During sonic
logging testing, where any irregularities are detected, the tests shall be
repeated at a smaller scale to allow a ‘close-up view’ of the
irregularities.

(b) Presentation of Test Results

The time required to carry out the test for each pile must be recorded
along with records of starting time and finishing time.

The results of the tests shall be presented in report by the testing firm
and must be signed by a professional engineer. The report shall
include comprehensive engineering analysis of the test results for each
pile taking into consideration the soil condition and any other relevant
factors. Interim reports of each pile or group of piles tested in one day
shall be submitted to the Engineer within 2 days of the completion of
the test or tests. A final comprehensive report shall be submitted to the
Engineer within 7 days of the completion of the last test or tests.

Specification for Piling - spun pile 2014 S10-30