Pile Load Test Technical Requirement-20190201

DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE FOURTH
BRIDGE OVER THE PANAMA CANAL
PILE LOAD TEST TECHNICAL

REQUIREMENT
(Ref No. P4B/BRG/PLT/REP/002)
Nov 2018
Document Authorisation
Document Title PILE LOAD TEST TECHNICAL REQUIREMENT
Reference No. P4B/BRG/PLT/REP/002
Revision 02
Issue Date 31/01/2019
Prepared By Position Date Signature
Wang Xiaodong 31/01/2019
Reviewed By Position Date Signature
Liu Bo 31/01/2019
Approved By Position Date Signature
Song Hui 31/01/2019

Document History
This document has been issued and amended as follows:
Revision Issue Date Description
01 16/11/2018 First Issue
02 31/01/2019 Second Issue

CONTENT
1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 1
2. Project Overview .................................................................................................................. 1
3. Geotechnical consideration .................................................................................................. 2
4. Specification Requirements.................................................................................................. 3
5. Purpose of the Pile Load Tests ............................................................................................. 5
6. Scope of Pile Load Test ......................................................................................................... 6
6.1 Axial Load Test ................................................................................................................ 6
6.2 Lateral Load Test ............................................................................................................. 7
7. Static Axial Load Test Procedures ........................................................................................ 8
7.1 General ............................................................................................................................ 8
7.2. Test pile construction .................................................................................................... 8
7.3. Position of the Osterberg cell ...................................................................................... 10
7.4. Instrumentation of the Test Pile. ................................................................................ 11
7.5 Loading Requirement and Loading Procedure ............................................................ 12
7.6 Loading Termination Criteria and Determination of Capacity .................................... 14
7.7 Submission of Pile Axial Load Test Report ................................................................... 14
8. Lateral Load Test Procedures ............................................................................................. 15
8.1 General .......................................................................................................................... 15
8.2. Test pile construction ................................................................................................... 15
8.3. Test Method ................................................................................................................. 15
8.4 Measuring and Instrumentation system ....................................................................... 17
8.5 Loading Procedure......................................................................................................... 17
8.6 Load Termination Criteria in Lateral Load Test ............................................................. 18
8.7 Submission of Pile Lateral Load Test Report ................................................................. 18
9. Programme for Installation and Testing ............................................................................ 19
10. Test Results and Interpretation ....................................................................................... 19
10.1 General ........................................................................................................................ 19
10.2 Axial Load Test ............................................................................................................. 19
10.3 Lateral Load Test ......................................................................................................... 21
APPENDIX A - Axial Load Test Specification........................................................................... 22
APPENDIX B - Lateral Load Test Specification........................................................................ 37
PILE LOAD TEST TECHNICAL REQUIREMENT
1. Introduction
The foundations for the new Panama Canal 4th Bridge will incorporate large diameter bored
concrete piles. This note presents the technical requirements for the pile load tests to be
carried out.
The pile load test requirements are proposed on the basis of TOR Clause 6.2.3.13. The specia
list pile load test contractor shall base on the TOR and put forward alternative proposal for t
he numbers of test piles, loading method & cycles, numbers of production & non-production
piles for test piles etc.
2. Project Overview
The Panama Canal 4th Bridge will connect the Panama City Metropolitan with the west side
of the canal, with a 6-lane highway and the No. 3 metro line service.
The main bridge consists of a 1010m long cable stayed bridge, with approach viaducts on
both the east and west sides of the canal. The overall layout is shown in figure 1 below,
while the elevation of the Main Bridge is shown in figure 2.
Figure 1. Overall layout of 4th Bridge
1
Figure 2. Elevation of Main Bridge
3. Geotechnical consideration
The ground conditions along the route of the bridge are presented in the “Geotechnical &
Subsurface Investigations Report”, project SE-12-24, Report No. 1 dated 31/01/2014.
The geotechnical conditions can be summaries as fill and Marly-sandy quaternary soils and
Pacific Muck overlaid on basalt rock on part of the west side of the canal, and Pacific Muck
quaternary with some sandy zones overlaid on rock of volcanic-sedimentary origin or detritic
origin elsewhere. The depth of the rock varies greatly along the route.
The majority of drilled shafts shall be designed to resist the vertical load by rock socket. At
some locations such as M6 (right side) and M7-M10, the piles shall be supported by end
bearing in sound rock or a combination of end bearing and side resistance in weathered rock.
The weathered rock in this case appears to still be weak rock and could be treated as a rock
socket in the design.
In determining the axial resistance of drilled shafts with rock sockets, the side resistance
from overlaying soil deposits shall be ignored. At Piers M6-M10 expected ground conditions
are such that side resistance should not be neglected and shall be tested.
2
4. Specification Requirements
The design of the piles is to be carried out to the AASHTO LRFD Specifications.
The provision specified in Section 10.8.3.5.4 of AASHTO LRFD Design Specifications shall be
followed to derive the drilled shaft resistance factor in rock.
The Employers Requirements identified the following for the pile tests:
6.12.3.13 PROOF OF LOAD OF THE FOUNDATIONS
The contractor must carry out sufficient tests of axial loading of piles to verify the
nominal design strength for each type, diameter, and sub-soil condition (ie, specifically
different rock formations). At a minimum, a load test will be carried out at each of the
two towers of the main bridge. For each type and diameter of pile, a minimum of one
load test per type of subsoil condition.
The contractor shall carry out lateral load tests to verify the lateral resistance of each
pile of production and condition of the subsoil. For each type and diameter of pile, a
minimum of one lateral static load test for each subsoil condition. It is not required to do
lateral load tests for foundations with inclined piles to resist applied lateral loads.
A. Load Test of Piles Cast on Site
1. Install demonstration piles to demonstrate the means and methods of construction

before install production piles.
Perform an axial compression load test for each size of pile to verify the design and
construction procedures. If it is well built and approved by the Contractor Entity
Engineer, the demonstration wells can be used for testing load.
Select the test locations to represent different conditions of the subsoil and / or
construction methods. Perform additional axial load tests based on site variability, as
specified in AASHTO LRFD. If the Contractor decides to alter the construction methods,
an additional axial load test will be required on a test well, built with the new method.
Perform axial load tests using Osterberg cell load equipment in accordance with the
ASTM D1143 standard. Other test methods, such as Statnamic tests are not allowed
2. Carry out a minimum of one lateral load test for each pile size and each construction
methodology. The requirements and details of the lateral load test are indicated in
publication of the FHWAFHWA-SNS-10-016
3. Carry out integrity tests on all demonstration piles and piles cast on site. production.
At a minimum, the requirements of the integrity tests shall include acoustic analysis
cross section (CSL) on all piles. In addition, the Contractor must carry Performed thermal
integrity profile tests to investigate the integrity of the concrete coating and the
behavior of the perimeter of the pile in all the demonstration piles.
Other documents referred to for the pile tests:
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 AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specification
 ASTM D1143/D1143M-07: Standard Test Methods for Deep Foundations Under

Static Axial Compressive Load
 ASTM D3966/D3966M-07e1: Standard Test Methods for Deep Foundations Under

Lateral Load
 FHWA-NHI-10-016: Drilled Shafts: Construction Procedures and LRFD Design

Methods
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5. Purpose of the Pile Load Tests

Preliminary trial pile(s) shall be constructed using the same construction method as the
works piles to prove the methodology. The test piles will be used to undertake maintained
load tests to prove the pile resistance
a. The Vertical Load Test shall be carried out to check the ultimate vertical resistance
of the pile including the pile ultimate capacity and the ultimate resistance at pile
base. Also, the pile shaft skin friction parameters at each soil layer shall be
determined. The results will be used to refine the pile design, and in particular the
rock socket length required.
b. Lateral Load Test shall evaluate the lateral soil resistance and thus the soil model
and parameters used for design
Preliminary trial piles shall be constructed and tested sufficiently in advance of the main
works for the results to be evaluated and the design modified if necessary.
During the piling operation the workmanship of the specific construction activities, such as
the slurry production system and pile base cleaning, shall be verified. The preliminary trial
pile can provide experience feedback and generate further recommendations for the
production pile construction. At the same time the relevant controls and parameters shall be
checked to confirm that they can reach the original assumptions.
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6. Scope of Pile Load Test

6.1 Axial Load Test
Apart from M6 to M10, the majority of the drilled shafts are to be designed as rock sockets
into sound rock, with their vertical load capacity generated by the length of pile in the sound
rock. In determining the axial resistance of drilled shafts with rock sockets, the side
resistance from overlaying soil deposits shall be ignored. For axial load tests where the
capacity is determined by side resistance and end bearing in weathered rock, such as with
M6 to M10, the side resistance from the weathered rock deposits will need to be
considered.
The Specification primarily appears to refer to load tests on preliminary piles constructed in
advance of the main construction and not to be used in the permanent works. No specific
guidance or requirement for load tests of permanent works piles (working piles) is given.
Integrity testing of every bored & cast in place working pile would be expected. Similarly
coring to prove the concrete / rock contact of each pile where rock socket design includes
for base resistance would be expected.
The number of load tests on working piles is dependent on the assumptions made at design.
If a very conservative design is used and ground conditions are well defined (e.g. by
preliminary test piles), tests on working piles shall be lower or may even be omitted. Typical
international guidance is for 1 in 100 working piles to be subject to a pile load test. For this
project where there are piles in groups in close proximity and installed into similar ground
conditions with identical methods, the number of test piles would be expected to be
significantly less. One test at each of the main towers and a minimum of 1 in 200 of the
remaining piles is considered adequate.
There are a total of 609 nos. of piles at the Main Bridge and Access Viaducts, which would
suggest that a minimum of one test at each of the main towers plus 3 further tests would be
required, although further tests may be required to suit the variation in pile diameter and
soil conditions. Additional tests will be done for the East and West Interchanges viaducts.
For the Main Bridge and Viaducts, all piles are large diameter bored piles, with pile sizes of
1.8m / 2.0m / 2.5m. For the interchange bridges, the pile sizes are 1.6m/1.8m/2.0m, which
are currently being reviewed by the designers.
The piles are socketed into either Basalt Rock (CH 2+500 to 3+530), Sound Rock or
Weathered Rock (Fm. Panama/La Bocca) (CH 1+945 to 2+330 and CH 4+075 to 5+400). There
are fault (sheared rock) zones at some locations along the project, but it is understood that
these are being avoided when positioning the piers.
The Static load testing will use the Osterberg load method (bi-directional method), while
Statnamic method is not permitted under the Contract Requirements. The O-Cell testing
method will allow the axial tension and compression capacity to be determined during the
same test.
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To comply with the Specification requirements, Axial Tests shall be carried out at the
locations given in Table 6-1. This will need further consideration after more geotechnical
data (boreholes) becomes available and the design of the piles are confirmed.
The table 6-1 includes one test for the 0.9m and 1.0m piles used at the interchange, which
will be added when further information is available. However, further tests may be required
in those areas once the geotechnical conditions and pile designs are known.
It is proposed to utilize three preliminary trial piles at the locations indicated in the table,
with the remainder of the tests being carried out on working piles.
Table 6-1 Location of Pile Tests for both Axial and Lateral
Pile Tentative
Pile
Test Pier Pile Borehole Type of pile
Dia. Soil Type Test type
Num Chainage Length Reference tested
（cm）
. （m）
E9 Axial & Preliminary
PT-1 180 50-55 Qmk, Ov, Tw, Ts FB-2+270
2+782 lateral Trial Pile
E13 Thin layer Qmk
PT-2 200 15-20 Axial only FB-2+500 Working Pile
3+048 over Tb
M6 (NORTH) Axial &
PT-4 250 40-45 Qml, Tbw, Td FB-4+060 Preliminary
4+588.31 lateral
baked rock
M6(SOUTH) caused by Working Pile
PT-5 250 60-70 Axial FB-4+070
4+588.31 contact (Provisional)
metamorphism
M8 Axial & Preliminary
PT-6 250 65-70 Qmk, Qv, Tw FB-4+230
4+755.31 lateral Test Pile
W16 Axial &
PT-7 180 34.3 F & Ov over Ts FB-5+130 Working Pile
5+739 lateral
Note：PT-3 is cancelled because the foundation of east tower adopted spread footing。
6.2 Lateral Load Test
The Lateral Load Tests will be used to evaluate the lateral soil resistance and soil stiffness for
use in the design.
The lateral loads in the piles will be resisted by the top layers of the soil. The depth down the
pile where the lateral load acts will be confirmed by the design, but it is expected that it shall
just be a few metres when in the rock, extending to the order of 15m in the softer ground.
With the Basalt and Sound Rock, the lateral loads will quickly dissipate into the rock, causing
little deflections. The main design parameters for these rocks will be the elastic modulus and
compressive strength, which will more accurately be determined by in-situ or laboratory
testing during the geotechnical investigations. For these reasons it is proposed that lateral
testing is not appropriate where the sound rock or basalt is near the top of the pile, such as
at Piers E13.
The other soils over the upper 15m consists of:
 Qe: Eluvial/Top soil

 Qmk: Pacifick muck
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 Qml_ Shelly sands

 Ov: Overburden (Residual soil)
Lateral Tests will be carried out at the locations noted in tables 6-1.
7. Static Axial Load Test Procedures

7.1 General
The tests will be carried out in accordance with specification ASTM D1143/D1143M-07:
Standard Test Methods for Deep Foundations Under Static Axial Compressive Load. A typical
test pile specification is given in Appendix A.
The axial load tests will be performed using Osterberg Cells to generate the loading, similar
to that shown in figure 7-1.
Figure 7-1 Typical Osterberg Cell arrangement
The following sections highlight some particular aspects of the testing.
7.2. Test pile construction
7.2.1. General
The locations of the test piles are given in section 6. The preliminary pile length given has
been determined based on the geotechnical information provided from the feasibility study
stage. The actual pile length and founding level shall be confirmed based on the
supplementary borehole information.
The preliminary pile which is to be tested shall be identified with at least 48 hours’ notice
before the commencement of construction.
Consideration can be given to using the permanent working piles for the load test. However,
this does raise risks of remedial works being needed if the working pile fails the load test, or
if it undergoes permanent displacements that affect its overall load capacity.
Before constructing the test pile, a full site investigation should be carried out including
supplementary boreholes done at each test pile location and all laboratory testing
completed. The results of these supplementary borehole will be used to determine the test
pile length and the location of the O-Cells and test instrumentation to be used.
8
The borehole shall be to a minimum depth of 10m below the scheduled pile depth. Standard
Penetration Tests (SPT) shall have taken place at 1.0m depth intervals to 10m depth and
2.0m intervals below. Where SPT N values exceed N = 100, rotary coring methods to obtain
rock cores shall be required. Undisturbed and/or bulk samples shall be obtained in soils at
1.0m depth intervals. Laboratory testing shall be required on recovered samples to give:
o Water content (1m intervals*)
o Bulk density (1m intervals*)
o Particle sized determination of granular soils (2m intervals*)
o Atterberg limits of cohesive soils (2m intervals*)
o Soil strength (2m intervals*)
o Compression via oedometer tests of cohesive soil samples (5m intervals*)
o UCS of rock cores (2m intervals*)
o Point load determination of rock (1m intervals*)
(*= subject to suitable samples and at discretion of supervising geotechnical

engineer)
The test pile construction should utilize the same equipment, material and methodology as
proposed for the permanent working piles.
7.2.2. Sonic Logging Test requirements
The Contractor shall provide a detailed scope for the integrity testing and proof drilling. As a
minimum it shall include the following.
Cross hole sonic logging in all bored cast in situ piles over the full length of the shaft. The
number of logging tubes shall be not less than stated below according to the diameter of a
pile.
Diameter of pile Number of logging tubes

1.0m or less 2 or 3
1.5m~2.0m 6
2.5m 8
Cross hole sonic test results shall be proved with coring of low speed part when severely low
speed portion appears.
7.2.3 & Proof Coring requirements
Where end bearing resistance is considered in the design, proof coring of the lower part of
the concrete shaft, through the O-Cell arrangement and the contact interface between the
pile and rock shall be carried out to confirm the quality of the interface. The coring shall be
used to demonstrate the cleanliness of the contact (concrete to rock) and that the rock is
9
undisturbed. The resulting bore shall be backfilled with cement grout where done in a
working pile.
7.3. Position of the Osterberg cell
To determine the position of the O-Cells the design loading and geotechnical design of the
pile needs to be defined, and this will be confirmed after the supplementary boreholes and
design are progressed.
For a compression test the O-cells will usually be placed at or near the bottom of the pile,
however, if there is insufficient base resistance to generate sufficient force to establish the
side friction capacity along the pile then the O-cell may need to be raised up to suit, as
indicated in figure 7-2. Alternatively, if there is insufficient side friction to generate sufficient
force to establish the base resistance then additional kentledge may be needed on top of
the pile to increase the force generated by the O-Cell.
For a tension test, the tension will be taken wholly by the side friction in the pile.
Additional O-Cells can be installed up the pile to refine the testing as shown in figure 7-3.
It should be noted that where the O-Cells are located there is a gap in the pile reinforcement,
so that the section of pile below the O-Cell cannot be utilized against tension in the pile if it
was a permanent working pile in the Works.
O-Cell at bottom of the pile O-Cell located above the bottom
Figure 7-2. Possible locations of the Osterberg Cells.
10
Figure 7-3. Possible arrangement with several O-Cells used
The O-cell can be used to determine if the ultimate load exceeds the design capacity in a
similar manner to conventional static load tests. However due to the position of the O-cell it
is also possible to separate the axial resistance due to side friction from that due to end
bearing (base resistance). The data can be used to inform pile design and rationalize future
piles construction. Proposed pile design is for a rock socket with axial load to be supported
by a combination of side friction and end bearing. O-cells shall hence generally be placed
toward the base of test piles so that end bearing can be mobilized as reaction to measure
side friction. Where very long rock sockets are proposed that have a resistance that far
exceeds end bearing, test piles may need to reduce the length of rock socket so that the
base resistance is sufficient to fully mobilise the side shear. Alternative a second O-cell can
be placed higher in the rock rocket to measure side friction.
At location where the rock socket has a significant depth of quaternary soils or fill soils
above, a second O-cell can be used so that the effect of the superficial deposits can be
discounted from the pile test analysis. Alternatively, the upper part of the pile may be
isolated from the ground by use of a casing, or the force in the pile monitored using strain
gauges.
For short end bearing piles in unweathered rock an O-cell may not be able to generate
sufficient side resistance mobilize the end bearing required by the test. In such cases a
conventional static load test may be more appropriate.
Proposed O-cell placement shall need to be reviewed once the supplementary boreholes
information is available and in conjunction with preliminary pile design.
7.4. Instrumentation of the Test Pile.
The following is expected to be provided in the pile for the axial load test;
A typical instrumentation layout for the O-cell load test is shown in figure 7-4 below. This
shall be supplemented by ‘sister bar’ type Rebar strain bars. Exact locations for the stain bars
11
shall be determined on inspection of the supplementary borehole logs. Strain gauges would
typically be at 2-4m depth intervals and / or significant changes in strata.
Figure 7-4. Typical instrumentation arrangement
7.5 Loading Requirement and Loading Procedure
The commencement of loading should not be less than 28 days after completion of the pile
installation.
The load test shall be carried out generally in accordance with the ASTM D1143, Procedure B,
modified as shown in Table 7-1. The anticipated failure load for the O-cell is shown in Table
6-2 and is based on the expected load needed to fail either the tip resistance or the side
resistance, or both. The loading and unloading shall be in accordance with the requirements
indicated in Table 7.1.
The load test applied load should be sufficient to reach the failure condition of the pile. With
the O-cell procedure, this involves a balance between the pile tip capacity at the base and
the side friction capacity above the O-cell. The tip and side friction capacity are shown in
table 6-2, along with the position of the O-cells and test force required.
For the Preliminary Trial Piles, the pile length and founding conditions will be chosen to be
similar to the piles expected in the adjacent foundations based on the design loads applied
at those foundations. However, in accordance with AASHTO LRFD Table 10.5.5.2.4-1, the
Resistance Factor for the compression load test design will be 0.7 and for the uplift load test
0.6. This will determine the rock socket or embedment length of the pile so that the tip
resistance and side resistance can be defined. With this information, the location of the
O-cell and the O-cell jacking force can be fixed to give the Failure Load required.
12
For the Working Piles tested, they will be designed with the Resistance Factors given in
AASHTO LRFD Table 10.5.5.2.4-1, with 0.5 for the side and tip capacity under compression
and 0.4 for the uplift capacity. It is no desirable to test Working Piles to Failure, and it is
proposed to limit the test to 0.75% of the Failure Load, which relates to approximately 150%
of an equivalent working load for the pile.
Table 7-1: Minimum Loading Times for Pile Axial Load Test (Preliminary Trial Piles)
Minimum Time of
No Load Composition
Holding Load
1 12.5% Failure Load 1 hour
Initial bedding in and

2 25% Failure Load 1 hour
test process
8 0 1 hour
ASTM D1143
Procedure B
20 0
The above only refers to preliminary trial piles.
Where working piles are to be tested, the maximum load shall be limited to 75% of the
Failure Load so as not to damage the pile. In this case, steps 15 and 16 of the above are
omitted, and step 14 is maintained for 12 hours. This would need to be further discussed
with the Employer.
It should be noted that 75% of the Failure Load is approximately 150% of the unfactored
Design Load derived from the design analysis.
Where the same pile is being used for both the axial and lateral tests, the axial static load
test should be carried out before the lateral static load test is done. The interval between
the two tests shall not be less than 48h.
Following each application of an increment of load, the load shall be maintained at the
specified value for not less than the period shown in Table 7.1 and until the rate of axial
13
movement does not exceed 0.25 mm (0.01 in) per hour, with a maximum of 2 hr. The rate of
settlement shall be calculated from the slope of the line obtained by plotting values of
settlement versus time and drawing a smooth curve through the points.
7.6 Loading Termination Criteria and Determination of Capacity
The loading shall be terminated if:
 at any load stage the pile head settlement is 5 times of that of previous load stage or
with an abrupt drop that can be used to identify the ultimate capacity appear in the
Q~S curve;
 under any load stage, the pile head settlement exceeds 2 times of that of previous
load stage; and the load cannot maintain stable within 24 hours after reaching
certain load stage;
 for loading curve with gradual variation, the total settlement at the pile head
exceeds 0.05D (D=pile diameter).
 the load has reached the capacity of loading equipment.
 For the load vs. settlement curve with an abrupt change, take the starting point of
abrupt change as the corresponding pile capacity.
7.7 Submission of Pile Axial Load Test Report
A report on the pile load tests shall be submitted which shall include all the information
required as given ASTM D1143/D1143M-07.
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8. Lateral Load Test Procedures

8.1 General
The tests will be carried out in accordance with specification ASTM D3966/D3966M-07e1:
Standard Test Methods for Deep Foundations Under Lateral Load. A typical lateral test pile
specification is given in Appendix B.
Where the Lateral Test is done at the same location as the Axial Test, are Lateral load test
may begin 3 days after the Axial Compressive Load tests has been completed.
The lateral load test Design Load will be provided by the Designers for each pile diameter
and each location.
The following sections highlight some particular aspects of the testing.

8.2. Test pile construction
The test pile construction follow that noted in section 7.2 above.
Within the supplementary boreholes, at those piles subjected to the lateral load test,
additional pressuremeter lateral load testing shall be required. Tests shall be at 1m into
changes of strata and 4m intervals with in each stratum.
8.3. Test Method
The lateral load test shall be carried out by applying the test load to the pile in one of the
following ways:
8.3.1 Mass Weight Reaction System
Apply the test loads to the pile using one hydraulic jack and a suitable mass reaction system
as shown in figure 8-1. A weighted platform can be used as a reaction system. The platform
can be of any suitable material such as timber, concrete, or steel, and the weights can be
concrete or steel to provide sufficient load as necessary to generate the resistance to the
maximum anticipated lateral test loads to be applied.
A suitable jacking surface is required on the edge of the platform against which the reactive
lateral load can be applied.
Figure 8-1 Weighted Platform for Applying Lateral Load
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8.3.2 Reaction Pile System
If the lateral loads are too high to use a sensible mass weight reaction system, an alternative
method is to use another pile installed adjacent to provide a reaction as shown in figure 8-2.
In this method a hydraulic jack is used between the two piles, with both pile being
instrumented to determine their behavior under the applied load
Figure 8-2. Reaction Pile arrangement
8.3.3 Osterberg Cell method
A third method is to use Osterberg Cells installed vertically within the piles, as shown in
figure 8-3.
Figure 8-3. Osterberg Cell arrangement
An O-cell assembly is cast within a section of the test shaft, with the axis of the cell
perpendicular to the axis of the shaft. When the O-cell is pressurized, each “semi-cylinder” is
loaded laterally from within, against the surrounding soil or rock formation.
The split cylinder test is not covered by ASTM D3966/D3966M-07e1 and would need
agreement with the Employer over its adoption and use.
It should be appreciated that the loads are being applied directly to the selected zone of
interest and the results not influenced by elastic lateral deformation. At each increment,
load and lateral displacement are recorded and the data is tabulated and plotted.
The advantages of this method of testing is the ability to test the lateral loading capacities of
discrete soil stratum or over isolated depth ranges along the length of the test shaft.
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8.4 Measuring and Instrumentation system
8.4.1. Reference Beam
Reference beams shall be supported independent of the loading system, with supports
firmly embedded in the ground at a clear distance from the test pile of at least five times the
diameter of the test pile(s) but not less than 2.5 m, and at a clear distance from any anchor
piles of at least five times the diameter of the anchor pile(s) but not less than 2.5 m.
Reference supports shall also be located as far as practicable from any struts or supports but
not less than a clear distance of 2.5 m.
Reference beams shall have adequate strength, stiffness, and cross bracing to support the
test instrumentation and minimize vibrations that may degrade measurement of the pile
movement. One end of each beam shall be free to move laterally as the beam length
changes with temperature variations. Provide a tarp or shelter to prevent direct sunlight and
precipitation from affecting the measuring and reference systems.
8.4.2. Instrumentation
Top Displacement Indicators are mounted on reference beam(s) perpendicular to the line of
load application to bear on the pile top along the line of load application of the test pile,
with stems parallel to the line of load application. Alternatively, mount two indicators on
axisymmetric points equidistant from the center of the test pile with the stems parallel to
the line of load application to bear on the reference beam(s). When locating reference
beam(s) on the side of the test pile, opposite a compressive load, or on the same side as
tensile load application, allow sufficient clearance between the test pile or pile cap and the
reference beam for the anticipated lateral movement of the pile.
Inclinometer tubes shall be included in piles for lateral load testing, to allow the deflections
of the pile down its length to be monitored and measured.
‘Sister bar’ type Rebar strain bars shall be required for all piles subject to lateral load tests.
Strain bars would typically be at 2m depth intervals and / or significant changes in strata.
They would be used to monitor the moments and shears existing down the length of the
pile.
8.5 Loading Procedure
The load shall be applied in increments as shown in table 8-1 using the Standard Loading
approach
Each load increment and decrement shall be held for the specified interval of time. Readings
of gross settlement, load, and time are taken and recorded immediately before and after the
application of each load increment and decrement.
The load test shall be carried out generally in accordance with the ASTM D3966, Procedure C
standard loading, as shown in Table 8-1. The lateral design load is shown in Table 6-2 and is
derived from the design analysis. The loading and unloading shall be in accordance with the
requirements indicated in Table 8.1.
Both the Preliminary Trial Piles and the Working Piles tested will follow the same procedure.
As the Design Lateral Loads are relatively low, consideration will be given to testing to a
17
higher load than given in Table 8-1 to increase the range of the results obtained. This will be
confirmed after the design analysis for the test piles has been carried out to determine the
expected load v lateral deflection curves of the piles.
Table 8-1: Minimum Loading Times for Pile Lateral Load Test (PTX and PTX)
Minimum Time of
No Load Composition
Holding Load
1 25% Design Load 10 minutes
4 0 10 minutes
9 0 10 minutes
15 0 10 minutes
26 0
8.6 Load Termination Criteria in Lateral Load Test
The load test will be terminated if at any stage of load the transverse deformation increases
sharply while the deformation rate is also significantly accelerated. It is at this stage that the
maximum lateral load or deformation of the test is reached.
8.7 Submission of Pile Lateral Load Test Report
A report on the pile load tests shall be submitted which shall include all the information
required as given ASTM D3966/D3966M-07e1
18
9. Programme for Installation and Testing

To be provided by the Contractor.
10. Test Results and Interpretation

10.1 General
Accurately predicting the performance of piles based on design calculations alone is not 100%
and hence there is typically a requirement for pile testing. In-situ testing can also be used to
measure the quality of pile construction. This section is concerned with load tests to confirm
/ assess load characteristics only. The specification does not allow for dynamic load tests and
hence testing shall be via bi-directional (O-Cell) tests and / or static load tests.
In its simplest form pile load tests apply a test load to the top of the pile at a multiple of the
design load and confirm that pile settlement or deflections does not exceed a
predetermined settlement and deflection criteria. Pile testing of working piles is limited to
confirmation that the pile performance is adequate. However greater information can be
gained from testing preliminary trial piles to failure and the information used to feed back
into permanent works design with potential cost saving.
Design is to be to AASHTO Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) methods. The partial
factors to be applied are given in the AASHTO codes, but an assessment has to be made by
the engineer of the end bearing capacity of the ground and the side resistance characteristic
of the pile to ground interface. In-situ testing will typically give resistance values above
values correlated from boreholes and laboratory testing and hence provide a potential cost
saving if applied to pile design.
10.2 Axial Load Test
For static axial load tests on the Preliminary Trial Piles using O-cells, the test load is applied
near the bottom of the piles and taken up to the point of failure of either the tip resistance
or the side resistance, or both if they coincide. If the ultimate failure is not reached it is
necessary to extrapolate results using published methods.
The pile is monitored with strain gauges, deflection telltales and displacement transducers
so that the axial load along the pile and the deflection along the pile and at the O-cells can
be measured. These measurements are then used to quantify the end bearing resistance
and side friction along the pile that is generated.
Testing using O-Cells allows the end bearing to side friction characteristics to be
independently measured as shown below.
19
Loose material below the base of the pile can also be easily identified by the downward
movement at the O-cell to give load movement plots as seen below.
Data can then be combined to give an overall pile performance chart similar to data given by
a static load test with the load applied at the top, as shown below.
20
From back analyzing the data, the achieved side friction resistance can be determined. If
base failure also occurs, the data can confirm the tip resistance of the pile. These can then
be used for the design of the Working Piles.
10.3 Lateral Load Test
Lateral load testing by static load method is proposed although tests could be undertaken
using lateral split o-cell techniques. Lateral load tests are unlikely to reach ultimate load
when considering the size of piles being tested.
The top displacement indicators and inclinometers allow the deflected shape down the pile
to be determined against the lateral load applied at the top. The strain gauges on the bars
will allow the bending moments to be determined along the length of the pile.
This data from the load test is combined with pile instrumentation data and pile
inclinometer readings to produce p-y load-displacement curves. Calculated theoretical p-y
curves are then made using assumed ground stiffness data with a 3D analysis model of the
pile and surrounding soil. The measured p-y curves are compared with the theoretical
analysis p-y curves as shown below.
The assumed stiffness is varied to match the measured p-y curves until a reasonable match
is obtained. The methods are not exact and a useful review is given in Sinnreich, Jon & Ayithi,
Aditya (2014) ‘Derivation of p-y Curves from Lateral Pile Load Test Instrument Data.
Geotechnical Testing Journal. 37. 20130127. 10.1520/GTJ20130127’.
21
APPENDIX A - Axial Load Test Specification

A.1. General
This Section deals with the testing of a pile by the application of an axial load or force. It
covers vertical piles tested in compression or tension.
A.2. Definitions
a. Allowable Load The load which may be safely applied to a pile after taking
into account its ultimate bearing capacity, negative friction,
pile spacing, overall bearing capacity of the ground below
and allowable settlement.
b. Compression Pile A pile which is designed to resist an axial force such as would
cause it to penetrate further into the ground.
c. Kentledge The dead weight used in a loading test.
d. Maintained Load Test A loading test in which each increment of load is held
constant either for a defined period of time or until the rate
of movement (settlement or uplift) falls to a specified value.
e. Design Verification Load A load applied to a selected pile to confirm that it is suitable
(DVL) for the load at the settlement specified. A proof load should
not normally exceed 200% of the working load on a pile.
f. Reaction System The arrangement of kentledge, piles, anchors or rafts that

provides a resistance against which the pile is tested.
g. Tension Pile A pile which is designed to resist an axial force such as would
cause it to be extracted from the ground.
h. Test Pile Any pile to which a test loading is, or is to be, applied.
i. Trial Pile or Preliminary A pile installed before the commencement of the main piling
Pile works or a specific part of the works for the purpose of
establishing the suitability of the chosen type of pile and for
confirming its design, dimensions and bearing capacity. Trial
piles may be utilised as working piles, only with the
agreement of the Designer.
j. Working Pile One of the piles forming the foundation of a structure.
22
k. Working Load The load which the pile is designed to carry.
l. Ultimate Bearing Capacity The load at which the resistance of the soil becomes fully
mobilised.
m. O-Cell method Static load testing using the ‘Osterberg’ load method
(bi-directional method). The O-cell is a calibrated
bi-directional loading device capable of applying loads
upward and downward when embedded in a deep
foundation.
n. Sonic Logging Cross hole sonic logging in preformed and installed tubes
within piles
A.3. Supervision
All tests shall be carried out only under the direction of an experienced and competent
supervisor conversant with the test equipment and test procedure. All personnel operating
the test equipment shall have been trained in its use.
A.4. Safety Precautions
A.4.1. General
When preparing for, conducting and dismantling a pile test the Contractor shall carry out the
requirement of the various regulations and other statutory instruments that are applicable
to the work for the provision and maintenance of safe working conditions, and shall in
addition make such other provision as may be necessary to safeguard against any hazards
that are involved in the testing or preparations for testing.
A.4.2. Kentledge
Axial load testing is to be by O-cell methods. As such kentledge is not expected to be

required for axial load tests.
However, should ground conditions or other reasons dictate a static load test using
kentledge then, where kentledge is used the Contractor shall construct the foundations for
the kentledge and any cribwork, beams or other supporting structure in such a manner that
there will not be differential settlement, bending or deflection of an amount that constitutes
a hazard to safety or impairs the efficiency of the operation. The kentledge shall be
adequately bonded, tied or otherwise held together to prevent it falling apart, or becoming
unstable because of deflection of the supports.
The weight of kentledge shall be greater than the maximum test load and if the weight is
estimated from the density and volume of the constituent materials an adequate factor of
safety against error shall be allowed.
23
A.4.3. Tension Piles and Ground Anchors
An assessment of tension capacity is to be made using the results of bi-directional O-cell

methods. As such specific tension piles or ground anchors are not expected to be required.
However, should ground conditions or other reasons dictate a need for tension piles or
ground anchors as reaction, the Contractor shall ensure that the load is correctly transmitted
to all the tie rods or bolts. The extension of rods by welding shall not be permitted unless it
is known that the steel will not be reduced in strength by welding. The bond stresses of the
rods in tension shall not exceed normal permissible bond stresses for the type of steel and
grade of concrete used.
A.5. Construction of a Trial Pile to be Test Loaded
A.5.1. Notice of Construction
The Contractor shall give the Designer at least 14 days’ notice of the commencement of
construction of any trial pile, which is to be test loaded.
A.5.2. Pre-works boreholes
For each trial pile location, a borehole shall have been constructed and all records provided
to the designer 14 days in advance of the trial pile commencing. The borehole shall be to a
minimum depth of 10m below the scheduled pile depth. Standard Penetration Tests (SPT)
shall have taken place at 1.0m depth intervals to 10m depth and 2.0m intervals below.
Where SPT N values exceed N = 100, rotary coring methods to obtain rock cores shall be
required. U100 and / or bulk undisturbed samples shall be obtained in soils at 1.0m depth
intervals. Laboratory testing shall be required on recovered samples to give:
o Water content (1m intervals*)
o Bulk density (1m intervals*)
o Particle sized determination of granular soils (2m intervals*)
o Atterberg limits of cohesive soils (2m intervals*)
o Soil strength (2m intervals*)
o Compression via oedometer tests of cohesive soil samples (5m intervals*)
o UCS of rock cores (2m intervals*)
o Point load determination of rock (1m intervals*)
(*= subject to suitable samples and at discretion of supervising geotechnical

engineer)
A.6. Method of Test Pile Construction
24
Each test pile shall be constructed in a manner similar to that to be used for the construction
of the working piles, and by the use of similar equipment and materials. Any variation shall
only be permitted with prior approval of the designer.
Extra reinforcement and concrete of increased strength shall be permitted in the shafts of
trial piles at the discretion of the Engineer.
A.6.1. Pile Boring or Driving Record
For each trial pile which is to be tested a detailed record of the soils encountered during
boring, or of the progress during driving shall be made and submitted to the daily not later
than noon on the next working day.
A.6.2. Cut-Off Level
The pile shaft shall terminate at the normal cut-off level, or at a level required by the
Engineer.
The pile shaft shall be extended where necessary above the cut-off level of working piles so
that gauges and other apparatus to be used in the testing process are not damaged by water
or falling debris.
A.6.3. Pile Head for Compression Tests
An assessment of pile capacity is to be made using the results of bi-directional O-cell

methods. As such no specific pile head preparation is expected to be required.
Where ground conditions or other reasons dictate a need to use methods other than O-cells,
and a pile is to be tested in compression, the pile head or cap shall be formed to give a plane
surface which is normal to the axis of the pile. The pile head shall be sufficiently large to
accommodate the loading and settlement-measuring equipment and adequately reinforced
or protected to prevent damage from the concentrated application of load from the loading
equipment.
A.7. Preparation of a Working Pile to be Tested
O-cell tests shall not be carried out on working piles without the specific agreement of the
Designer. If a test by other means is required on a working pile the Contractor shall cut down
or otherwise prepare the pile for testing as required by the Designer.
A.8. Testing by O-cell methods
A.8.1. Compression Tests – Using O-cells
An assessment of pile capacity is to be made using bi-directional O-cell methods.
The Contractor shall furnish one or more O-cells as required for each test pile. The O-cells to
be provided shall have a capacity to exceed the DVL shown in Table A-1 in each direction.
The O-cell shall be supplied with a signed certificate of calibration. The O-cell shall be
equipped with all necessary hydraulic lines and fittings.
25
A.8.2. O-cell assembly and installation
A steel reinforcing cage or carrying frame shall be used to support and convey O-cell
assembly, instrumentation and piping to appropriate levels within the test shaft.
Two circular steel plates are required per O-cell assembly. Plates to be 20mm thick and
approximately equivalent diameter as inner diameter of steel reinforcing cage used on
working piles of same diameter as test pile. The plates to be welded to the top and bottom
of the O-cell for use as mechanism of load transfer.
Centralizers shall be provided or means shall be implemented to ensure centralizing of the

load test apparatus, instrumentation and reinforcing steel.
Steel pipes which shall be approx. 125mm diameter (as specified by O-cell supplier) used as
conduit for telltales from above working level to the top of the O-cell assembly.
Additional set of steel pipes serving dual purpose of venting the O-cell annulus during the
test and as post-test grout placement tube where piles may potentially be incorporated in
the permanent works.
Materials such as angle or channel steel or rebar to be placed as needed to protect O-cell
assembly, hydraulic fittings and instrumentation during installation and concreting
procedures.
Materials such as rebar to be provided to construct an apparatus for funneling of the

concrete slickline or tremie through the O-cell assembly for concrete placement.
A.8.3. Instrumentation and testing materials (O-cells)
Linear Vibrating Wire Displacement Transducers (LVWDT's) having a range of at least

150mm, with signed certificates of calibration. Transducers shall be capable of reading to
within 0.0025mm of displacement.
Sister Bar Vibrating Wire Strain Gauges, with signed certificates of calibration.
Telltale extensometer assemblies having a range of at least 25mm with signed certificates of
calibration. Transducers shall be capable of measuring movement within 0.0025mm.
Embedded compression telltale assemblies shall be used when typical surface measuring
methods are impractical.
Clean water from an approved source shall be supplied to mix with water-soluble oil
contained within the O-cell to form the hydraulic fluid used to pressurize the O-Cell.
Materials sufficient to construct a protected work area, including provisions such as a tent or
shed for protection from inclement weather for the load test equipment and personnel.
Equipment and operators for handling the O-Cell, instrumentation and steel reinforcement
during the installation of the O-Cell, including but not limited to a crane or other lifting
devices, manual labor and hand tools.
Air compressor with hoses and fittings to match O-cell requirements for pump operation
26
during the load test.
Air-driven hydraulic pump to be used as O-cell pressure source and accompanying pressure
gage.
Tripods, automated survey levels and related equipment to measure upward top of shaft
displacement.
All necessary data acquisition equipment.
A.8.4. O-cell test pile assembly and installation
The O-Cell, hydraulic supply lines, and instrumentation shall be assembled and made ready
for installation in a suitable area adjacent to the test element. The O-Cell assembly shall be
welded to the reinforcing steel, with the plane of the bottom plate of the O-Cell set at right
angles to the long axis of the reinforcing steel assembly. Installation of the O-Cell and
instrumentation assembly shall be performed under the direction and supervision of the
Specialty Contractor.
The intent of the load test internal instrumentation is to measure the test load and its
distribution along the shaft and near the tip. The O-Cell and vibrating wire strain gages shall
be incorporated into the reinforcing steel assembly as shown in the O-cell supplier plans.
Strain gages shall be uniformly spaced around the circumference of the shaft reinforcing
cage. The designer may require revisions to location of the instrumentation.
Once the shaft excavation has been completed, tested, inspected and accepted by the
Engineer, the O-Cell and reinforcing steel assembly shall be lowered into the excavation. A
seating layer of concrete shall be placed by an approved method in the base of the shaft to
provide a level base and reaction for the O-cell. The preferred method is to install the
O-cell assembly and deliver the seating layer using a slick line or tremie pipe extending
through the O-cell assembly to the base of the shaft. Depending on the configuration of
the test assembly, it may be necessary to deliver the seating layer of concrete prior to
installing reinforcing cage with attached O-cell assembly. In this case, the O-cell assembly
shall be installed while the concrete at the base is still fluid and should end up at least
partially submerged and firmly seated in the wet concrete.
The Contractor shall use the utmost care in handling the test assembly so as not to damage
the instrumentation during installation. The contractor shall limit the deflection of the
reinforcing cage to 50cm between pick points while lifting the cage from the horizontal to
the vertical position. The maximum spacing between pick points shall be 8m. The
contractor shall provide support bracing, strong backs, etc. to maintain the deflection within
the specified tolerance. The O-cell assembly must remain perpendicular to the long axis of
the reinforcing cage throughout the lifting and installation process.
After the O-Cell and steel assembly have been set, it shall be confirmed the proper elevation
of the reinforcing cage has been attained. The shaft shall then be further concreted by an
approved method similar to that utilized for working piles, using the same concrete mix.
In addition to those required by the contract documents, obtain at least four (4) concrete
27
cylinders for compressive strength testing from the concrete used in the shaft. At least one
cylinder shall be tested prior to the O-Cell load test to establish the minimum concrete
strength, and two (2) cylinders tested on the day of the load test.
A.8.5. O-cell load testing
The Contractor shall engage a specialist contractor with a minimum of 10 years’ experience
specializing in bi-directional static load testing to provide the necessary load testing
equipment and instrumentation and to perform the load tests. The Specialty Contractor shall
be approved in advance by the Designer.
O-Cell load testing shall not begin until after a minimum of 28days after completion of test
shaft construction and/or shaft concrete attains a minimum compressive strength of not less
than 85% design mix strength.
The O-cell load test is to be performed in general compliance with ASTM D1143-07 Standard
Test Method for Deep Foundations Under Static Axial Compressive Load using Procedure A:
Quick Test loading schedule. The loads shall be applied in increments of between 5 to 10% of
the anticipated failure load. The magnitude of the load increments should not be changed
during the test.
During the period required to perform the load test, no drilling or excavation operations on
any shaft may be performed in the vicinity of the test. No casings shall be vibrated into place
in the area near the test. If test apparatus show an indication of negative effects due to
other construction activities, such activities shall be halted for the test duration.
The specialist contractor shall collect all test data during O-Cell load testing and the
Contractor shall assist as necessary during all aspects of the load test.
The loading and unloading shall be in accordance with the requirements indicated in Load
Test summary table in Attachment 1.
Table A-1: Minimum Loading Times for Pile Axial Load Test (PTX and PTX)
Minimum Time of
No Load Composition Load Value
Holding Load
1 25% Design Load 1 hour
8 0 1 hour
28

20 0
A.8.6. O-cell test reporting
At each load increment (or decrement) telltale, survey level, LVWDT and strain gage data
shall be reported at 1, 2, 4, 8 and 10-minute (when applicable) intervals.
The contractor shall provide an electronic version of the report to the Engineer for
evaluation. An initial data report containing the load-movement curves and data tables will
be provided to the Engineer within five (5) working days of the completion of load testing, to
allow evaluation of the test results. A final report on the load testing report shall be
submitted within fourteen (14) working days after completion of the O-Cell load test. As a
minimum the report shall include:
a. Summary of the load test procedures
b. Tabulated data of all embedded and surface instrument readings.
c. Load vs. upward top of O-cell and downward base of O-cell displacement plots.
d. Equivalent top-loaded load settlement plot.
e. Load distribution plot based on strain gage data.
f. Provide net unit side shear curves, and unit end bearing vs. displacement curves (t-z
and q-z curves), if applicable.
g. Creep limit analysis of all test shaft sections.
h. Caliper tool shaft excavation profiling.
i. Calibration documentation for all instrumentation and O-cell(s) used during the load
test.
j. Boring logs and related site investigation results.
k. Summary of test shaft details and schematic as-built drawing of test shaft indicating
locations of O-cell, instrumentation and soil stratigraphy
A.9. Reaction Systems - tests other than O-Cells
A.9.1. Compression tests – non O-Cell
Where ground conditions or other reasons dictate a need to use methods other than O-cells,
compression tests shall be carried out using kentledge, tension piles or specially constructed
29
anchorages.
Where kentledge is to be used, it shall be supported on cribwork disposed around the pile
head so that its centre of gravity is on the axis of the pile. The bearing pressure under
supporting cribs shall be such as to ensure stability of the kentledge stack. Kentledge shall
not be carried directly on the pile head, except when directed by the Engineer.
A.9.2. Working Piles
Where working piles are used as reaction piles their movement shall be measured to within
an accuracy of 0.5 mm.
A.9.3. Spacing
Where kentledge is used for loading vertical piles in compression, the distance from the
edge of the test pile to the nearest part of the crib supporting the kentledge stack in contact
with the ground shall be not less than 1.5 metres.
The centre to centre spacing of vertical reaction piles, including working piles used as
reaction piles, from a test pile shall be not less than three times the diameter of the test pile
or the reaction piles or 2 metres, whichever is the greatest.
A.9.4. Adequate Reaction
The size, length and number of the piles or anchors, or the area of the rafts, shall be
adequate to transmit the maximum test load to the ground in a safe manner without
excessive movement or influence on the test pile.
A.9.5. Care of Piles
The method employed in the installation of any reaction piles, anchors or rafts shall be such
as to prevent damage to any test pile or working pile.
A.9.6. Loading Arrangement
The loading arrangement used shall be designed to transfer safely to the test pile the
maximum load required in testing. Full details shall be submitted to the Engineer prior to
any work related to the testing process being carried out on the Site.
A.10. Equipment for Applying Load
The equipment used for applying load shall consist of one or more hydraulic rams or jacks
with the total capacity of the jacks being at least equal to the required maximum load. The
jack or jacks shall be arranged in conjunction with the reaction system to deliver an axial
load to the test pile. The complete system shall be capable of transferring the maximum load
required for the test.
A.11. Measurement of Load
30
Suitable approved measuring devices for determining the load on the pile shall be supplied
by the Contractor. Certificates of calibration shall be supplied to the Engineer.
In addition, large diameter (i.e. exceeding 1.2 metre) test piles shall be instrumented at 5
different depths to measure the load distribution along the piles. The instrumentation shall
consist of both a mechanical system and strain gauges for measuring the pile deformation.
The mechanical system shall consist of 6 mm steel rods or high tensile steel wires gauge No.
23, placed in steel tubes down to the various depths, and connected to dial gauges at the
top. The strain gauges shall be of a stable type, wholly protected by a steel capsule. They
shall be welded to the steel reinforcement, 2 gauges at each depth.
The Engineer shall approve the type of gauges to be used and other details on the
instrumentation.
A.12. Adjustability of Loading Equipment
The loading equipment shall be capable of adjustment throughout the test to obtain a
smooth increase of load or to maintain each load constant at the required stages of a
maintained loading test.
A.13. Measuring Movement of Pile Heads
A.13.1. General
In a maintained load test movement of the pile head shall be measured by two of the
methods as described below. One method for settlement measurements, the other method
for control.
A.13.2. Levelling Method
An optical or any other levelling method by reference to an external datum may be used.
Where a level and staff are used, the level and scale of the staff shall be chosen to enable
readings to be made to within an accuracy of 0.5 mm. A scale attached to the pile or pile cap
may be used instead of a levelling staff. At least two datum points shall be established on
permanent objects or other well-founded structures, or deep datum points shall be installed.
Each datum point shall be situated so that only one setting up of the level is needed.
No datum point shall be affected by the test loading or other operations on the site.
Where another method of levelling is proposed this shall be approved in writing.
A.13.3. Independent Reference Frame
An independent reference frame may be set up to permit measurement of the movement of

the pile. The supports for the frame shall be founded in such a manner and at such a
distance from the test pile, kentledge support cribs, reaction piles, anchorages and rafts that
movements of the ground in the vicinity of the equipment do not cause movement of the
31
reference frame during the testing. Check observations of any movements of the reference
frame shall be made and a check shall be made of the movement of the pile head relative to
an external datum during the progress of the test. In no case shall the supports be less than
three test pile diameters or 2 metres, whichever is the greater, from the centre of the test
pile.
The measurement of pile movement shall be made by two dial gauges rigidly mounted on
the reference frame that bear on surfaces normal to the pile axis fixed to the pile cap or
head. Alternatively, the gauges may be fixed to the pile and bear on surfaces on the
reference frame. The dial gauges shall be placed in diametrically opposed positions and be
equidistant from the pile axis. The dial gauges shall enable readings to be made to within an
accuracy of 0.1 mm.
The reference frames shall be protected from sun and wind.
A.13.4. Other Methods
The Contractor may submit for approval any other method for measuring the movement of
pile heads.
A.14. Protection of Testing Equipment
A.14.1. Protection from Weather
Throughout the test period all equipment for measuring load and movement shall be
protected from the weather.
A.14.2. Prevention of Disturbance
Construction equipment and persons who are not involved in the testing process shall be
kept at a sufficient distance from the test to avoid disturbance to the measurement
apparatus.
A.15. Supervision
A.15.1. Notice of Test
The Contractor shall give the Engineer at least 24 hours notice of the commencement of the
test.
A.15.2. Records
During the progress of a test, the testing equipment and all records of the test as required in
Section 4.4.14.2 shall be available for inspection by the Engineer.
A.16. Test Procedure

32
A.16.1. Proof Test by Maintained Load Test
The maximum load, which shall be applied in a proof test, is shown on the Drawings. The
loading and unloading shall be carried out in stages as shown in Table A-1 or as required by
the Engineer.
Following each application of an increment of load the load shall be held for not less than
the period shown in Table A-1 or until the rate of settlement is less than 0.25 mm/hour and
is slowing down. The rate of settlement shall be calculated from the slope of the curve
obtained by plotting values of settlement versus time and drawing a smooth curve through
the points.
Each stage of unloading shall proceed after the expiry of the period shown in Table A-1.
For any period when the load is constant, time and settlement shall be recorded
immediately on reaching the load and at approximately 15 minute intervals for 1 hour, at 30
minute intervals between 1 hour and 4 hours, and at 1 hour intervals between 4 hours and
12 hours after the application of the increment of load.
The Engineer may require that the full loading, or any portion of the loading, be maintained
on the pile for periods longer than shown in Table A-1.
A.17. Presentation of Results
A.17.1. Results to be Submitted
Results shall be submitted as:
a) A summary in writing to the Engineer, unless otherwise directed, within 24 hours of the
completion of the test, which shall give for a proof test by maintained load for each stage of
loading, the period for which the load was held, the load and the maximum settlement or
uplift recorded.
b) The completed schedule of recorded data as in Section A.17.2 within seven days of the
completion of the test.
c) The report shall include all the information required in ASTM D1143/D1143M-07, along
with the following as a minimum.
A.17.2. Schedule of Recorded Data
The Contractor shall provide information about the tested pile in accordance with the
following schedule where applicable.
A) General
1) Site location
2) Contract identification
3) Proposed structure
33
4) Date of test
B) Pile Details
1) Identification (number and location of the test pile) 2) Ground level at pile position
3) Head level as which test load is applied 4) Type of pile 5) Length in ground 6) Level
in ground 7) Level of toe 8) Details of Permanent casing
C) Installation Details
1) Dates and times of boring, driving and concreting of test pile and adjacent piles
2) Date and time of casting concrete
3) Driven length of temporary casing at final set
4) Hammer type, size or weight
5) Dolly and packing, type and condition before and after driving
6) Driving log (depth, blows per 250 mm, interruptions or breaks in driving)
7) At final set and at redrive set, for drop or single acting hammers, the length of the
drop or stroke, for diesel hammers the length of the stroke and the blows per minutes,
for double-acting hammers the number of blows per minute
8) Condition of pile head or temporary casing after driving
D) Test Procedure
1) Weight of kentledge
2) Tension pile, ground anchor or compression pile details
3) Plan of test arrangement showing position and distances of kentledge supports,

rafts, tension or compression piles and reference frame to test pile
4) Jack capacity
5) Method of Load measurement
6) Method(s) of penetration measurement
7) Relevant dates and times
E) Test Results
1) In tabular form
2) In graphical form: loads plotted against movements and time
A.18. Post-test grouting -O-Cell test
34
Post-test grouting of the shaft shall not be undertaken prior to formal acceptance of the load
test results by the Designer. During the O-cell test, the shaft breaks on a horizontal plane
separating the upper section above the O-cell (upper side shear) from the lower section
below (combined end bearing and lower side shear). This creates an annular space, the size
of which depends on the shaft / O-cell geometry and the magnitude of O-cell expansion.
When a working pile has been tested, the contractor will be required to grout the O-cell and
the annular space around the O-cell in order to allow load transfer to the lower side shear
and end bearing. The O-cell and annular space around the outside of the O-Ccell shall be
grouted using techniques described below and approved by the Designer.
A.18.1. Post Test Grouting of Osterberg Cells
The grout shall consist of Portland cement and water only, NO SAND.
The grout shall be fluid and pumpable. The mixing shall be thorough to ensure that there are
no lumps of dry cement and the grout passed through a window screen mesh before
pumping.
Connect the grout pump outlet to one hydraulic line of the O-cell. Open the other line and
establish a flow of water through the system. Pump the grout through the O-cell hydraulic
line while collecting the effluent from the bleed line. Monitor characteristics of effluent
material and when it becomes equivalent to the grout being pumped, stop pumping. e. Take
three samples of the grout for compression testing @ 28 days, if required.
A.18.2. Post Test Grouting of Annular Space Around Osterberg Cells
a. Prepare a fluid grout mix consisting of Portland cement and water only, NO SAND. The
mixing procedures should be as outlined for grouting the O-cells. The quantity of grout
should be at least three (3) times the theoretical volume required to fill the annular space
and grout pipes.
b. Pump water and establish a flow through the grout pipes (minimum two per shaft).
c. Pump the fluid grout through one of the grout pipes until grout is observed flowing from
the second grout pipe or until 1.5 times the theoretical volume has been pumped.
If no return of grout is observed from the second grout pipe, transfer the pump to the
second pipe and pump grout through it until 1.5 times the theoretical volume has been
pumped. If higher strength grout is deemed necessary, immediately proceed with pumping
the higher strength grout (which may be a sand mix). The pumping procedures for this grout
will be the same as described above for the initial cement-water grout. The entire grouting
operation must be completed before the set time for the initial grout has elapsed. Take
three (3) samples of each type of grout for compression testing @ 28 days.
A.19. Completion of a Test
A.19.1. Measuring Equipment
35
On completion of a test all equipment and measuring devices shall be dismantled, checked
and either stored so that they are available for use in further tests or removed from the Site.
A.19.2. Kentledge
Kentledge and its supporting structure shall be removed from the test pile and stored so
that they are available for use in further tests or removed from the Site.
A.19.3. Temporary Piles
On completion of a pile test, temporary tension piles shall be cut off below ground level,
removed from the Site and the ground made good with approved material as specified.
36
APPENDIX B - Lateral Load Test Specification

B.1. General
This Section deals with the testing of a pile by the application of a lateral load or force. It
covers axial piles tested in compression or tension.
B.2. Definitions
As A.1.2
B.3. Supervision
All tests shall be carried out only under the direction of an experienced and competent
supervisor conversant with the test equipment and test procedure. All personnel operating
the test equipment shall have been trained in its use.
B.4. Safety Precautions
General
When preparing for, conducting and dismantling a pile test the Contractor shall carry out the
requirement of the various regulations and other statutory instruments that are applicable
to the work for the provision and maintenance of safe working conditions, and shall in
addition make such other provision as may be necessary to safeguard against any hazards
that are involved in the testing or preparations for testing.
B.5. Kentledge
Where kentledge is used the Contractor shall construct the foundations for the kentledge
and any cribwork, beams or other supporting structure in such a manner that there will not
be differential settlement, bending or deflection of an amount that constitutes a hazard to
safety or impairs the efficiency of the operation. The kentledge shall be adequately bonded,
tied or otherwise held together to prevent it falling apart, or becoming unstable because of
deflection of the supports.
The weight of kentledge shall be greater than the maximum test load and if the weight is
estimated from the density and volume of the constituent materials an adequate factor of
safety against error shall be allowed.
B.6. Reaction Piles
Should ground conditions or other reasons dictate a need for reaction piles, the Contractor
37
shall ensure that the load is correctly transmitted to all the reaction pile. The extension of
rods by welding shall not be permitted unless it is known that the steel will not be reduced
in strength by welding. The bond stresses of the rods in tension shall not exceed normal
permissible bond stresses for the type of steel and grade of concrete used.
B.7. Construction of a Test Pile to be Test Loaded
B.7.1. Notice of Construction
The Contractor shall give the Engineer at least 14 days’ notice of the commencement of
construction of any pilot pile, which is to be test loaded.
B.7.2. Pre-works boreholes
For each trial pile location a borehole shall have been constructed and all records provided
to the designer 14 days in advance of the trial pile commencing. The borehole shall be to a
minimum depth equal to the toe level of the scheduled pile. Standard Penetration Tests (SPT)
shall have taken place at 1.0m depth intervals to 10m depth and 2.0m intervals below.
Where SPT N values exceed N = 100, rotary coring methods to obtain rock cores shall be
required. U100 and / or bulk undisturbed samples shall be obtained in soils at 1.0m depth
intervals. Laboratory testing shall be required on recovered samples to give:
Water content (1m intervals*)
Bulk density (1m intervals*)
Particle sized determination of granular soils (2m intervals*)
Atterberg limits of cohesive soils (2m intervals*)
Soil strength (2m intervals*)
Compression via oedometer tests of cohesive soil samples (5m intervals*)
UCS of rock cores (2m intervals*)
Point load determination of rock (1m intervals*)
(*= subject to suitable samples and at discretion of supervising geotechnical engineer)
B.7.3. Method of Construction
Each test pile shall be constructed in a manner similar to that to be used for the construction
of the working piles, and by the use of similar equipment and materials. Any variation shall
only be permitted with prior approval.
Extra reinforcement and concrete of increased strength shall be permitted in the shafts of
test piles at the discretion of the Engineer.
B.7.4. Boring or Driving Record
For each pile which is to be tested a detailed record of the soils encountered during boring,
38
or of the progress during driving shall be made and submitted to the Engineer daily not later
than noon on the next working day.
B.7.5. Cut-Off Level
The pile shaft shall terminate at the normal cut-off level, or at a level required by the
designer.
The pile shaft shall be extended where necessary above the cut-off level of working piles so
that gauges and other apparatus to be used in the testing process are not damaged by water
or falling debris.
B.7.6. Pile Head for Lateral Tests
For a pile that is tested laterally, the pile head shall be modified to form a vertical surface
which sufficiently large to accommodate and adequately reinforced or protected to prevent
damage from the concentrated application of load from the loading equipment. The top of
the pile shall be sufficiently sized to accommodate the settlement-measuring equipment.
Access shall be maintained to inclinometer tubes installed in the piles.
B.7.7. Preparation of a Working Pile to be Tested
If a test is required on a working pile the Contractor shall cut down or otherwise prepare the
pile for testing as required by the Designer.
B.8. Reaction Systems
B.8.1. Lateral Load Tests
Lateral load tests shall be carried out using kentledge, reaction piles or specially constructed
anchorages.
Where kentledge is to be used, it shall be supported on cribwork disposed around the pile
head so that its centre of gravity is on the axis of the pile. The bearing pressure under
supporting cribs shall be such as to ensure stability of the kentledge stack. Kentledge shall
not be carried directly on the pile head, except when directed by the Engineer.
B.8.2. Working Piles
Where working piles are used as reaction piles their movement shall be measured to within
an accuracy of 0.5 mm.
B.8.3. Spacing
Where kentledge is used for loading piles the distance from the edge of the test pile to the
nearest part of the crib supporting the kentledge stack in contact with the ground shall be
not less than 1.5 metres.
The centre to centre spacing of reaction piles, including working piles used as reaction piles,
from a test pile shall be not less than three times the diameter of the test pile or the
reaction piles or 2 metres, whichever is the greatest.
39
B.8.4. Adequate Reaction
The size, length and number of the piles or anchors, or the area of the rafts, shall be
adequate to transmit the maximum test load to the ground in a safe manner without
excessive movement or influence on the test pile.
B.8.5. Care of Piles
The method employed in the installation of any reaction piles, anchors or rafts shall be such
as to prevent damage to any test pile or working pile.
B.8.6. Loading Arrangement
The loading arrangement used shall be designed to transfer safely to the test pile the
maximum load required in testing. Full details shall be submitted to the Designer prior to
any work related to the testing process being carried out on the Site.
B.9. Equipment for Applying Load
The equipment used for applying load shall consist of one or more hydraulic rams or jacks
with the total capacity of the jacks being at least equal to the required maximum load. The
jack or jacks shall be arranged in conjunction with the reaction system to deliver a lateral
load to the test pile. The complete system shall be capable of transferring the maximum load
required for the test.
B.10. Measurement of Load
Suitable approved measuring devices for determining the load on the pile shall be supplied
by the Contractor. Certificates of calibration shall be supplied to the Designer.
In addition, large diameter (i.e. exceeding 1.2 metre) test piles shall be instrumented at.
The Designer shall approve the type of gauges to be used and other details on the
instrumentation.
B.11. Adjustability of Loading Equipment
The loading equipment shall be capable of adjustment throughout the test to obtain a
smooth increase of load or to maintain each load constant at the required stages of a
maintained loading test.
B.12. Measuring Lateral Movement of Pile Heads
B.12.1. General
A primary and a secondary monitoring system and an inclinometer shall be used by the
40
Contractor to measure the lateral movement of the piles. The primary system shall utilize
LVDTs (linearly variable differential transducers) or dial gages. The secondary system shall
consist of either dial gages (if LVDTs are used for the primary system) or a wire, mirror and
scale.
Measurements of lateral movements of the test piles may reveal eccentric loading or
abnormal behavior of the test pile. Such measurements must be obtained to determine the
precise response of the test pile to the lateral load.
B.12.2. LDVT’s
If LVDTs are used as the primary system, the Contractor shall provide a primary system
consisting of three (3) LVDTs and a readout unit for monitoring movement at the pile top.
The LVDTs shall be DC/DC type displacement transducers with at least 6 inches of travel and
have a linearity of 0.5 percent or less. In addition, they shall be spring-loaded or have a core
with a threaded connecting rod, which allows the LVDTs to function horizontally. The
readout unit shall be capable of monitoring the output from at least three (3) DC/DC type
LVDTs and have a minimum display of 4 digits. The mounting hardware should be of
non-magnetic materials such as brass, aluminum or 303 series stainless steel. The alignment
and attachment of the LVDTs will be the same as that stated below for the dial gages.
B.12.3. Dial Gauges
If dial gauges are used as the primary or secondary system the Contractor shall provide a
system consisting of three (3) dial gauges for monitoring movement of the pile top. gages
shall have at least 6 inches of travel, an adequate number of suitable gauge blocks to
increase the travel at least an additional 4 inches, and a precision of 0.001 inches. The dial
gauges and LVDTs shall be attached to the reference beam (with stems bearing against the
pile or the cap) or to lugs attached to the test pile (with stems bearing against the reference
beam). The gages and LVDTs shall be mounted with stems horizontal and in line with the
applied load.
B.12.4. Wire, mirror and scale (as secondary systems only)
If dial gauges are used as the primary system the Contractor shall provide a secondary
system consisting of a single strand of piano wire drawn in front of a graduated scale
mounted on a mirror. This scale shall be at least 6 inch long, machine-divided in graduations
of 0.01 inch and mounted on a 3 inch by 6 inch mirror with metal-and glass bonding
adhesive or electrical tape. Attach the mirror directly to the pile, so oriented that the mirror
face is parallel to the reference beam. Mount the wire between the ends of the reference
beam, with one end fixed and the other placed over a pulley with a weight to maintain
tension. The wire should be level and located within 3/4 inch of the mirror face.
B.12.5. Inclinometer
Inclinometer casing shall be attached to the pile as indicated on the drawings. The type of
casing to be furnished, the method of attachment and the type of readout and appurtenant
equipment shall be in accordance with the details and notes included in the Plans.
41
B.13. Protection of Testing Equipment
B.13.1. Protection from Weather
Throughout the test period all equipment for measuring load and movement shall be
protected from the weather.
B.13.2. Prevention of Disturbance
Construction equipment and persons who are not involved in the testing process shall be
kept at sufficient distance from the test to avoid disturbance to the measurement
apparatus.
B.14. Supervision
B.14.1. Notice of Test
The Contractor shall give the Engineer at least 24 hours’ notice of the commencement of the
test.
B.14.2. Records
During the progress of a test, the testing equipment and all records of the test as required in
Section B.17.2 shall be available for inspection by the Engineer.
B.15. Test Procedure
B.15.1. Proof Test by Maintained Load Test
The maximum load, which shall be applied in a proof test, is shown in Table A-2. The loading
and unloading shall be carried out in stages as shown in Table B-1 or as required by the
Engineer.
Following each application of an increment of load the load shall be held for not less than
the period shown in Table B-2 or until the rate of settlement is less than 0.25 mm/hour and
is slowing down. The rate of settlement shall be calculated from the slope of the curve
obtained by plotting values of settlement versus time and drawing a smooth curve through
the points.
Each stage of unloading shall proceed after the expiry of the period shown in Table B-2.
For any period when the load is constant, time and settlement shall be recorded
immediately on reaching the load and at approximately 15-minute intervals for 1 hour, at 30
minute intervals between 1 hour and 4 hours, and at 1 hour intervals between 4 hours and
12 hours after the application of the increment of load.
The Designer may require that the full loading, or any portion of the loading, be maintained
on the pile for periods longer than shown in Table B-2.
42
Table B-1: Minimum Loading Times for Pile Lateral Load Test (PTX and PTX)
Minimum Time of
No Load Composition Load Value
Holding Load
4 0 10 minutes
9 0 10 minutes
15 0 10 minutes
26 0
B.16 Load Termination Criteria in Lateral Load Test
(1) At a stage of load, the transverse deformation increases sharply, the deformation rate is
significantly accelerated, the maximum load or deformation required by the test is reached.
(2) The maximum horizontal deflection of laterally loaded pile exceed 12.5mm at working
lateral load.
B.17. Presentation of Results
B.17.1. Results to be Submitted

43
Results shall be submitted as:
a) A summary in writing to the Designer unless otherwise directed, within 24 hours of the
completion of the test, which shall give for a proof test by maintained load for each stage of
loading, the period for which the load was held, the load and the maximum settlement or
uplift recorded.
b) The completed schedule of recorded data as in Section B.17.2 within seven days of the
completion of the test.
B.17.2. Schedule of Recorded Data
The Contractor shall provide information about the tested pile in accordance with the
following schedule where applicable.
A) General
1) Site location
2) Contract identification
3) Proposed structure
4) Date of test
B) Pile Details
1) Identification (number and location of the test pile)
2) Ground level at pile position
3) Head level as which test load is applied
4) Type of pile 5) Length in ground
6) Level in ground
7) Level of toe
8) Details of Permanent casing
C) Installation Details
1) Dates and times of boring, driving and concreting of test pile and adjacent piles
2) Date and time of casting concrete
3) Driven length of pile or temporary casing at final set
4) Hammer type, size or weight
5) Dolly and packing, type and condition before and after driving
6) Driving log (depth, blows per 250 mm, interruptions or breaks in driving)
7) At final set and at redrive set, for drop or single acting hammers, the length of the
drop or stroke, for diesel hammers the length of the stroke and the blows per minutes,
44
for double-acting hammers the number of blows per minute
8) Condition of pile head or temporary casing after driving
D) Test Procedure
1) Weight of kentledge
2) Reaction, ground anchor or compression pile details
3) Plan of test arrangement showing position and distances of kentledge supports, rafts,
tension or compression piles and reference frame to test pile
4) Jack capacity
5) Method of Load measurement
6) Method(s) of penetration measurement 7) Relevant dates and times
E) Test Results
1) In tabular form
2) In graphical form: loads plotted against movements and time
B.18. Completion of a Test
B.18.1. Measuring Equipment
On completion of a test all equipment and measuring devices shall be dismantled, checked
and either stored so that they are available for use in further tests or removed from the Site.
B.18.2. Kentledge
Kentledge and its supporting structure shall be removed from the test pile and stored so
that they are available for use in further tests or removed from the Site.
B.18.3. Temporary Piles
On completion of a preliminary test, temporary tension piles shall be cut off below ground
level, removed from the Site and the ground made good with approved material as
specified.
45

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DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE FOURTH

BRIDGE OVER THE PANAMA CANAL

PILE LOAD TEST TECHNICAL

(Ref No. P4B/BRG/PLT/REP/002)

Reference No. P4B/BRG/PLT/REP/002

Issue Date 31/01/2019

Prepared By Position Date Signature

Wang Xiaodong 31/01/2019

Reviewed By Position Date Signature

Approved By Position Date Signature

Song Hui 31/01/2019

Revision Issue Date Description

01 16/11/2018 First Issue

02 31/01/2019 Second Issue

Figure 1. Overall layout of 4th Bridge

Figure 2. Elevation of Main Bridge

6.12.3.13 PROOF OF LOAD OF THE FOUNDATIONS

A. Load Test of Piles Cast on Site

1. Install demonstration piles to demonstrate the means and methods of construction

Other documents referred to for the pile tests:

 AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specification

 ASTM D1143/D1143M-07: Standard Test Methods for Deep Foundations Under

 ASTM D3966/D3966M-07e1: Standard Test Methods for Deep Foundations Under

 FHWA-NHI-10-016: Drilled Shafts: Construction Procedures and LRFD Design

5. Purpose of the Pile Load Tests

6. Scope of Pile Load Test

6.2 Lateral Load Test

The other soils over the upper 15m consists of:

 Qe: Eluvial/Top soil

 Qml_ Shelly sands

7. Static Axial Load Test Procedures

Figure 7-1 Typical Osterberg Cell arrangement

The following sections highlight some particular aspects of the testing.

7.2. Test pile construction

o Water content (1m intervals*)

o Bulk density (1m intervals*)

o Particle sized determination of granular soils (2m intervals*)

o Atterberg limits of cohesive soils (2m intervals*)

o Soil strength (2m intervals*)

o Compression via oedometer tests of cohesive soil samples (5m intervals*)

o UCS of rock cores (2m intervals*)

o Point load determination of rock (1m intervals*)

(*= subject to suitable samples and at discretion of supervising geotechnical

7.2.2. Sonic Logging Test requirements

Diameter of pile Number of logging tubes

7.2.3 & Proof Coring requirements

7.3. Position of the Osterberg cell

O-Cell at bottom of the pile O-Cell located above the bottom

Figure 7-2. Possible locations of the Osterberg Cells.

Figure 7-3. Possible arrangement with several O-Cells used

7.4. Instrumentation of the Test Pile.

Figure 7-4. Typical instrumentation arrangement

7.5 Loading Requirement and Loading Procedure

Initial bedding in and

The above only refers to preliminary trial piles.

7.6 Loading Termination Criteria and Determination of Capacity

The loading shall be terminated if:

 the load has reached the capacity of loading equipment.

7.7 Submission of Pile Axial Load Test Report

8. Lateral Load Test Procedures

The following sections highlight some particular aspects of the testing.

8.3.1 Mass Weight Reaction System

Figure 8-1 Weighted Platform for Applying Lateral Load

8.3.2 Reaction Pile System