CECOS University of IT and Emerging Sciences Peshawar

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

Assignment # 03/04 CU-2650-21 Date : 11/01/2024

Subject : Foundation eng

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Methodology:
I can 1. Research: certainly highlight some key textbooks, journal articles, and
online resources that are commonly used to understand the basic
principles of soil mechanics, foundation design, and load testing methods. Keep in mind that
the field of geotechnical engineering is vast, and the selection of resources may vary based on
the specific aspects of soil mechanics and foundation design you are interested in.

Here are some recommended sources:

Journal Articles :
 "Journal of Geotechnical and Geo environmental Engineering (ASCE):" This

journal publishes peer-reviewed articles covering a wide range of topics in

geotechnical engineering, including soil mechanics, foundation design, and load
testing Observed in saturated cohesive soils.

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 "Geo technique:" A leading international journal covering research and practice
in geotechnical and geo environmental engineering, providing insights into soil
mechanics and foundation engineering.

Text books :
 "Principles of Geotechnical Engineering" by Braja M. Das and Khaled Sobhan:

This textbook provides a solid introduction to soil mechanics and geotechnical

engineering, covering fundamental concepts and practical applications.
 "Foundation Engineering" by Ralph B. Peck, Walter E. Hanson, and Thomas H.
Thorn burn: This classic textbook is a valuable resource for understanding
foundation engineering principles, including site exploration, shallow and deep
foundations, and slope stability.

"Soil Mechanics: Concepts and Applications" by William Powrie: A

comprehensive textbook covering soil mechanics principles and their
application in geotechnical engineering, suitable for both undergraduate and
graduate students.

Online Resources :
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) - Geotechnical Engineering
Publications: The FHWA offers various publications and resources related to
geotechnical engineering, including soil mechanics and foundation design. The
website is a valuable source for practical guidelines and case studies.

 Geoengineer.org: An online community and resource hub for geotechnical

engineers, providing forums, articles, and news related to soil mechanics,
foundation design, and other geotechnical topics.

 International Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering

(ISSMGE): The ISSMGE website offers a wealth of information, including

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 conference proceedings, technical committees, and publications related to soil
mechanics and geotechnical engineering.
Explore websites and videos showcasing practical demonstrations of pile and

plate load tests.

Websites:

• YouTube - Geo EngTV:

Link: Geo Eng TV on YouTube

Description: Geo Eng TV is a YouTube channel that focuses on geotechnical engineering

topics. It may contain videos demonstrating various geotechnical tests, including pile and
plate load tests.

Interview geotechnical engineers or technicians to gain firsthand insights

into the application of these tests in real-world projects.

General Question:
1. Can you briefly describe your role as a geotechnical engineer/technician and your
experience in the field?
2. What types of projects have you been involved in that required the use of pile and
plate load tests?
3. How do pile and plate load tests contribute to the overall geotechnical investigation
and foundation design process?

Pile Load Test:

1. In what situations do you typically recommend or require pile load testing on a project?
2. Can you share an example of a project where pile load testing played a crucial role in
the design or construction phase?
3. What challenges have you encountered during the implementation of pile load tests,
and how were they addressed?

Plate Load Test:

1. When do you decide to perform a plate load test as opposed to other foundation testing methods?
2. Can you provide an example of a project where the plate load test results influenced the design of
shallow foundations?
3. What factors do you consider when selecting the size and location for plate load tests on a site?

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 Practical Consideration:
1. How do you ensure the reliability and accuracy of the data collected during pile and
plate load tests?
2. What instrumentation and equipment are typically used for these tests, and how do
you choose the appropriate ones for a specific project?
3. Are there any specific standards or guidelines you follow when conducting pile and
plate load tests?

Real- world Challenges:

1. Can you share any instances where unexpected findings during pile or plate load tests led to
design modifications?
2. How do you communicate the results of pile and plate load tests to project stakeholders, and
how does it impact decision-making?
3. What are some common misconceptions or challenges related to interpreting the results of these tests?

Future Trends:

1. Are there emerging technologies or methodologies in the field of geotechnical

engineering that you believe will impact the way pile and plate load tests are
conducted in the future?
2. How do you see the role of these tests evolving in the context of sustainable and
innovative construction practices?

Analysis:
Pile Load Test:
Analyze the purpose and benefits of pile load tests in determining the
bearing capacity of deep foundations.

Purpose of Pile Load Test:

1. Assessment of Bearing Capacity:
Purpose: The primary objective of pile load tests is to assess the bearing capacity of deep
foundations. This is essential for ensuring that the foundation can support the intended
loads without excessive settlement or failure

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Benefits of Pile Load Test:
1. Reliable Bearing Capacity Determination:

Benefit: Pile load tests provide direct and reliable measurements of the foundation's bearing
capacity under different load conditions. This information is critical for ensuring the safety
and stability of structures.

2. Validation of Design Parameters:

Benefit: Pile load tests allow engineers to validate the design parameters used in the
geotechnical analysis. This ensures that the assumptions made about soil properties and load-
bearing capacity are accurate.

3. Optimization of Foundation Design:

Benefit: By understanding the actual behavior of piles under load, engineers can optimize the
foundation design to ensure cost-effectiveness and efficient use of materials.

4. Quality Control and Assurance:

Benefit: Pile load tests serve as a quality control measure during construction. By conducting
load tests on a subset of piles, engineers can ensure that the installed foundations meet the
specified performance criteria.

5. Identification of Potential Issues:

Benefit: Pile load tests can reveal potential issues such as pile defects, soilstructure
interaction problems, or unexpected soil behavior that might affect the long-term
performance of the foundation.

6. Foundation Performance Prediction:

Benefit: The data obtained from pile load tests can be used to predict the longterm
performance of the foundation, including settlement characteristics and load-carrying
capacity over time.

Investigate the different types of pile load tests (static, dynamic, Osterberg)
and their specific applications.

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1. Static Load Test:
Purpose:
• Primary purpose is to determine the ultimate and allowable load-carrying capacities of
piles.

• Assess the load-settlement behavior of piles under static loading conditions.

Procedure:
• Load is incrementally applied to the pile, and the corresponding settlement is measured at
various load levels.

Applications:
• Design verification: To confirm the design assumptions and capacity predictions.

• Quality control during construction: Ensuring that installed piles meet design
specifications.

• Evaluation of existing foundations: Assessing the load-carrying capacity of piles in

existing structures.

2. Dynamic Load Test :

Purpose:
• Assess the dynamic response and integrity of piles.
• Estimate the pile capacity based on the dynamic characteristics of the pilesoil system.

Procedure:
• Rapid loading is applied to the pile, and the resulting dynamic response (strain and
acceleration) is measured.

Applications:
• Preliminary pile capacity estimation: Especially useful in early project stages when
detailed soil information is limited.

• Detection of pile defects or integrity issues.

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 • Assessment of pile setup or relaxation over time.

3. Osterberg cell tests (o-cell tests):

Purpose:
• Measure the load distribution along the length of the pile shaft.
• Assess the load-carrying capacity of individual soil layers surrounding the pile.

Procedure:
• A hydraulic jack inside the pile shaft applies a load to an instrumented piston (Osterberg
cell) at the pile toe.

Applications:
• Load distribution assessment: Understanding how the load is distributed along the pile
shaft and its interaction with different soil layers.

• Measurement of shaft resistance: Direct measurement of the side and base resistances of
the pile.

Explore the equipment and instrumentation used in conducting pile load

tests and interpreting the resulting data (loaddisplacement curves, ultimate
load, settlement).

 Equipment Used in Pile Load Test :

1. Hydraulic Jacks:
Purpose: For applying loads to the pile.
Description: Hydraulic jacks are used to incrementally apply loads during static load tests.
They can be controlled to provide a gradual increase in load for accurate measurements.

2. Load Cells:
Purpose: Measure the applied load.
Description: Load cells are installed in the load path to measure the force applied to the pile.
They provide real-time data on the load increments during the test.

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3. Reaction Frames:
Purpose: Provide a stable platform for applying loads.
Description: These frames support the hydraulic jacks and reaction beams, ensuring that the
applied loads are distributed uniformly to the pile.
4. Instrumented Pile Caps:
Purpose: Measure pile head displacements.
Description: Pile caps are instrumented with displacement transducers to measure vertical
and horizontal movements at the pile head during loading

5. Displacement Transducers:
Purpose: Measure pile and cap displacements.
Description: These devices, such as linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs), are
used to measure displacements at different locations along the pile and at the pile cap.

6. Strain Gauges:
Purpose: Measure strain in the pile.
Description: Strain gauges are attached to the pile to measure deformations and assess the
distributn of loads along the pile shaft.

Explain the significance of plate load tests in assessing the bearing capacity
of shallow foundations on near-surface soils.

1. Representative Site-Specific Assessment:

Plate load tests are conducted at the exact location where the foundation will be placed,
providing a site-specific evaluation of the soil's behavior. This is crucial as soil properties
can vary significantly across a site.

2. Load Distribution Characteristics:

Plate load tests help in understanding how loads are distributed through the soil beneath
the foundation. This information is vital for designing foundations that distribute loads
uniformly and avoid excessive settlements.

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 Compare and contrast different plate load test methods (rigid plate,
flexible plate, settlement gauge) and their suitability for various soil
conditions.

 Rigid Plate Test:

Description:
• A rigid plate, often made of steel, is used to apply a load to the soil.
• Typically, the plate has a diameter ranging from 0.3 to 1.0 meter.
• Load is applied gradually, and settlements are measured at regular intervals.

• Commonly used for granular soils.

Advantages:
• Simplicity in setup and execution.
• Suitable for cohesion less soils where settlements occur quickly.
Limitations:
• May not represent the actual foundation behavior accurately for structures with
flexible foundations.

• May not be suitable for cohesive soils due to their sensitivity to disturbance.

Suitability:
• Suitable for granular soils with minimal cohesive content.
• Quick settlements make it suitable for rapid assessment.

 Flexible Plate Test:

Description:

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 • A flexible plate, often made of steel or rubber, is used to apply the load.
• The plate allows for some degree of deformation during the test.
• Suitable for both granular and cohesive soils.
Advantages:
• More representative of actual foundation behavior, especially for structures with
flexible foundations.

• Suitable for a wide range of soil types.

Limitations:
• Requires more complex instrumentation and setup compared to rigid plate tests.

• Settlements may be slower, making it less suitable for rapid assessments.

Suitability:
• Suitable for both granular and cohesive soils.
• More versatile but may require additional equipment and monitoring.

Analyze the measurements recorded during plate load tests

(settlement, deflection) and their role in calculating soil parameters
(bearing capacity, modulus of elasticity).
1. Settlement Measurements:

Role:
Settlement measurements during a plate load test provide insights into the deformation
and compressibility of the soil under the applied load.

Significance:
• Settlement data is crucial for assessing the ability of the soil to withstand loads
without excessive settlement, which is essential for the stability and safety of
structures.

• Settlement measurements are used to determine the ultimate bearing capacity of

the soil.

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2 . Deflection Measurements:

Role:
Deflection measurements capture the lateral and vertical displacements of the plate during
the load test.

Significance:
• Deflection data helps in understanding the flexibility and response of the soil-
structure system to applied loads.

• It aids in assessing the elastic and inelastic behavior of the soil and provides
information on the lateral spread of loads.

3. Calculation of Soil Parameters:

A-Bearing Capacity:
From Settlement Data:
• Settlement data is crucial for calculating the ultimate bearing capacity of the soil
using established bearing capacity theories (e.g., Terzaghi's bearing capacity
equation).

• The settlement is related to the applied load and the characteristics of the soil,
allowing engineers to estimate the safe bearing capacity.

B. Modulus of Elasticity (Elastic Settlements):

From Deflection Data:
• The modulus of elasticity (E) of the soil can be determined from the elastic
settlement data.

• Hooke's Law can be applied to relate the applied load to the elastic deformation,
allowing the calculation of the modulus of elasticity for the soil.

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4 . Interpretation of Results:

Settlement Profile:
• Analyzing the settlement profile across the test area provides information on the
uniformity of the soil and potential differential settlement issues.

• Variations in settlement patterns help identify layers with different

compressibility.

Load-Settlement Curve:
• Plotting the load-settlement curve allows engineers to observe the behavior of the
soil under increasing loads.

• The curve provides insights into the load at which significant settlements occur
and aids in determining the ultimate bearing capacity.

Deflection Behavior:
• Studying the deflection behavior provides information on the lateral spread of
loads, lateral soil resistance, and the soil's overall response to applied loads.

5 . Considerations and Challenges:

Nonlinear Behavior:
Both settlements and deflections may exhibit nonlinear behavior, particularly under high
loads. Proper interpretation requires considering the nonlinear aspects of soil response.

Time Effects:
Settlement measurements may also provide information on time-dependent settlement
characteristics, which is important for long-term performance considerations.

Influence of Pile or Foundation Type:

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 The type of pile or foundation used in the test may influence the settlement and deflection
characteristics. Interpretation should consider the specific type and geometry of the load-
bearing element.

6 . Quality of Data:

Instrumentation Accuracy:
The accuracy of settlement and deflection measurements depends on the quality of
instrumentation used during the plate load test.

Calibrating instruments and ensuring proper installation are critical for obtaining reliable
data.

Reporting:

 Prepare a comprehensive report summarizing your findings,

including:

Introduction to pile and plate load tests and their objectives.

1. Pile Load Tests:

Pile load tests are geotechnical assessments conducted to evaluate the load-carrying capacity and
deformation characteristics of deep foundations, such as piles or drilled shafts, in various soil
conditions.

Objectives:
I. Bearing Capacity Assessment:
Determine the ultimate and allowable bearing capacities of piles under different load
conditions.

II. Design Verification:

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 Confirm the adequacy of foundation design assumptions and predictions.
III. Quality Control:
Ensure that installed piles meet specified performance criteria and design
requirements during construction.

IV. Identification of Pile Integrity:

Assess the integrity of piles, detecting any defects, damage, or soil-structure
interaction problems.

V. Load Distribution Analysis:

Understand how loads are distributed along the pile shaft and evaluate the
contributions of skin friction and end bearing.

VI. Prediction of Long-Term Behavior:

Provide insights into the long-term performance and settlement characteristics of the
foundation.

VII. Optimization of Foundation Design:

Use data from load tests to refine foundation design parameters and optimize the use
of materials.

2. Plate Load Tests:

Plate load tests involve applying a known load to a plate positioned on the ground surface to
evaluate the response and deformation characteristics of the near-surface soil.

Objectives:
I. Bearing Capacity Assessment for Shallow Foundations:
Evaluate the bearing capacity of shallow foundations on near-surface soils.
II. Site-Specific Assessment:
Obtain site-specific data by conducting tests at the exact location where the
foundation will be placed.

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III. Deflection and Settlement Analysis:
Measure deflections and settlements to understand soil-structure interaction and
assess the deformation behavior of the soil.

IV. Verification of Design Assumptions:

Confirm the accuracy of design assumptions and parameters used in the geotechnical
analysis.

V. Foundation Design and Optimization:

Provide data for the design and optimization of shallow foundations, ensuring they
meet safety and performance criteria.

VI. Quality Control During Construction:

Use plate load tests as a quality control measure during construction to ensure that
installed foundations meet specified criteria.

VII. Prediction of Foundation Performance:

Predict the long-term performance of shallow foundations, including settlement
characteristics and load-carrying capacity over time.

Detailed descriptions of the test procedures, equipment, and

interpretation of results.
Pile Load Test:

Test Procedures:
1. Static Load Test:
• Load is applied incrementally using hydraulic jacks.
• Measurements of settlement and lateral deflection are recorded at various load
increments.

• Load is maintained at each level until the rate of settlement decreases

significantly.

2. Dynamic Load Test:

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 • Rapid loading is applied using a dynamic load generator (e.g., a drop hammer or a
hydraulic hammer).

• Acceleration and strain measurements are recorded using accelerometers and

strain gauges.

• Dynamic testing is often performed in both upward and downward directions.

3. Osterberg Cell Test:

• A hydraulic jack inside the pile shaft applies a load to an instrumented piston
(Osterberg cell) at the pile toe.

• Load is applied incrementally, and the load distribution along the pile shaft is
measured.

• Allows for a direct measurement of side and base resistances.

Equipment Used:

1. Static Load Test:

• Hydraulic jacks with load cells.
• Displacement transducers (e.g., LVDTs) for measuring settlements.
• Inclinometers or tilt meters for measuring lateral deflection.

2. Dynamic Load Test:

• Dynamic load generator (e.g., drop hammer, hydraulic hammer).
• Accelerometers to measure acceleration.
• Strain gauges to measure strain in the pile.
3. Osterberg Cell Test:
• Hydraulic jack inside the pile shaft.
• Instrumented piston (Osterberg cell) at the pile toe.
• Load cells, LVDTs, and strain gauges for measuring load distribution.

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Interpretation of Results:
1. Load-Settlement Curve:
• Analysis of the load-settlement curve helps determine the ultimate
bearing capacity of the pile.

• Identifies points of significant settlement, allowing for the assessment of

the pile's behavior.

2. Load-Deflection Behavior:
• Analyzing the load-deflection behavior provides insights into the
flexibility and stiffness of the pile.

• Helps inderstanding the soil-structure interaction and the contribution of

skin friction and end bearing.

3. Dynamic Testing:
• Dynamic load testing provides information on the dynamic response of the pile-
soil system.

• Analysis of acceleration and strain data aids in assessing pile integrity and
potential defects.

4. Osterberg Cell Test Results:

• The load distribution along the pile shaft is analyzed to determine side and base
resistances.

• The Osterberg cell test provides a direct measurement of these resistances.

Plate Load Test:

Test Procedures:
1. Rigid Plate Test:
• A rigid plate is placed on the ground surface, and loads are applied
incrementally.

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 • Settlements are measured at each load increment.

2. Flexible Plate Test:

• A flexible plate is used, allowing for some degree of deformation.
• Load is applied, and settlements are measured, capturing both elastic and
inelastic deformations.

3. Settlement Gauge Test:

• Settlement gauges or dial gauges are used to directly measure settlements at
multiple points.

• The load is applied incrementally, and settlements are recorded simultaneously.

Equipment Used:
1. Rigid Plate Test:
• Rigid steel plate.
• Load cell for applying loads.
• Settlement measurement devices (e.g., dial gauges, LVDTs).

2. Flexible Plate Test:

• Flexible plate (steel or rubber).
• Load cell for applying loads.
• Settlement measurement devices.

3. Settlement Gauge Test:

• Settlement gauges or dial gauges.
• Load cell for applying loads.

Interpretation of Results:
1. Load-Settlement Curve:
• The load-settlement curve provides information on the bearing capacity of the
soil under the foundation.

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 • Analysis of the curve helps identify the ultimate bearing capacity and
settlement characteristics.
2. Deflection Analysis:
• Measuring lateral and vertical deflections helps understand the flexibility of the
soil-structure system.

• Provides insights into the lateral spread of loads and overall soil behavior.

3. Site-Specific Assessment:
Settlement measurements across the test area help in assessing the uniformity of
the soil and potential differential settlements.

4. Verification of Design Assumptions:

Settlement and deflection data help in confirming the accuracy of design
assumptions and parameters used in geotechnical analysis.

5. Optimization of Foundation Design:

Plate load test data contribute to optimizing the design of shallow foundations,
ensuring they meet safety and performance criteria.

Discussion on the importance of these tests in foundation design and potential

consequences of neglecting them.
Importance of Pile and Plate Load Tests in Foundation Design:
Pile Load Tests:

1. Assessment of Bearing Capacity:

Pile load tests provide direct measurements of the ultimate and allowable bearing
capacities of piles.

Importance: Essential for ensuring that the foundation can support the intended loads
without excessive settlement or failure.

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 2. Verification of Design Assumptions:
Confirming the accuracy of design assumptions and predictions through load tests is
critical.

Importance: Helps validate the foundation design and ensures that assumptions about
soil behavior are in line with actual conditions.

3. Quality Control During Construction:

Pile load tests serve as a quality control measure, ensuring that installed piles meet
specified performance criteria.

Importance: Prevents construction errors and ensures the foundation's compliance

with design requirements.

4. Identification of Pile Integrity Issues:

Pile load tests can reveal defects, damage, or soil-structure interaction problems in
piles.
Importance: Early detection allows for necessary corrective measures, avoiding
potential safety hazards and ensuring the longevity of the foundation.

5. Optimization of Foundation Design:

Data from load tests contribute to optimizing foundation design parameters for cost-
effectiveness and efficiency.

Importance: Ensures the economical use of materials and the overall stability and
safety of the structure.

Consequences of Neglecting Pile Load Tests:

1. Risk of Structural Failure:

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 Neglecting pile load tests increases the risk of foundation failure due to inaccurate
predictions of bearing capacity and soil-structure interaction.

2. Construction Errors:
Without quality control through load tests, construction errors may go unnoticed,
leading to compromised foundation performance.

3. Increased Costs:
Neglecting load tests may result in overdesign or under design, leading to increased
construction costs and potential rework.

4. Reduced Foundation Durability:

Failure to identify integrity issues in piles may compromise the long-term durability
and stability of the foundation.

Plate Load Tests:

1. Bearing Capacity Assessment for Shallow Foundations:

Plate load tests assess the bearing capacity of shallow foundations on nearsurface
soils.

Importance: Provides critical data for designing shallow foundations that can
withstand applied loads without excessive settlement.

2. Verification of Design Assumptions:

Confirming the accuracy of design assumptions through plate load tests is essential.

Importance: Ensures that the foundation design parameters are aligned with actual site
conditions.

3. Site-Specific Assessment:
Conducting tests at the exact location of the foundation allows for site-specific
assessments.

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 Importance: Recognizes and accounts for variations in soil conditions across the site,
improving the accuracy of the foundation design.

4. Optimization of Foundation Design:

Data from plate load tests contribute to optimizing shallow foundation designs for
efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Importance: Facilitates the use of materials in an economical and sustainable manner.

Consequences of Neglecting Plate Load Tests:

1. Risk of Settlement Issues:
Without accurate data on bearing capacity and settlement characteristics, there is an
increased risk of excessive settlements that may lead to structural damage.
2. Inadequate Design Parameters:
Neglecting plate load tests may result in inadequate design parameters, leading to
foundations that are either overdesigned or prone to failure.

3. Uniformity Issues:
Failure to conduct site-specific assessments may result in neglecting soil variations,
leading to non-uniform settlements and potential structural problems.

4. Increased Construction Risks:

Neglecting plate load tests can lead to a lack of understanding of soilstructure
interaction, increasing the risk of construction-related issues.

Recommendations for selecting the appropriate test method based on specific

project considerations.
Pile Load Tests:
1. Type of Foundation:
Recommendation: Choose static load tests for assessing the bearing capacity of driven
piles and drilled shafts.

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 Rationale: Static load tests provide detailed information on load-settlement behavior
and are well-suited for deep foundations.

2. Soil Conditions:
Recommendation: Consider dynamic load tests in projects with granular soils and
where detailed soil information is limited.

Rationale: Dynamic load tests offer a rapid assessment of pile capacity, especially in
the early stages of a project.
3. Budget and Resources:
Recommendation: Use Osterberg cell tests for critical projects with sufficient budget
and when detailed information on load distribution is essential.

Rationale: Osterberg cell tests provide direct measurements of load distribution along
the pile shaft, offering valuable insights.

4. Project Stage:
Recommendation: Conduct static load tests during design verification and quality
control in construction.

Rationale: Static load tests provide detailed data for design confirmation and quality
assurance during construction.

Plate Load Tests:

1. Type of Foundation:
Recommendation: Utilize plate load tests for shallow foundations on nearsurface
soils.

Rationale: Plate load tests are specifically designed to assess the bearing capacity and
settlement characteristics of shallow foundations.

2. Site-Specific Assessment:
Recommendation: Opt for plate load tests when a site-specific assessment is crucial
due to variations in soil conditions.

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 Rationale: Plate load tests are conducted directly at the foundation location, providing
site-specific data for design.

3. Project Objectives:
Recommendation: Consider plate load tests for projects where precise settlement and
bearing capacity data are critical.

Rationale: Plate load tests offer accurate measurements of settlements and are
particularly useful for projects with stringent performance criteria.
4. Construction Control:
Recommendation: Use plate load tests as a quality control measure during foundation
construction.

Rationale: Plate load tests ensure that the constructed foundations meet specified
performance criteria, reducing the risk of errors during construction.

on their experience and knowledge of local soil conditions.

Illustrations and figures to enhance understanding of the key concepts
and processes.
Pile Load Tests:
1. Static Load Test:
Illustration:
A diagram showing a pile with instrumentation (load cells, displacement transducers)
during a static load test.

Figure:
Load-settlement curve depicting the relationship between applied load and pile
settlement.

2. Dynamic Load Test:

Illustration:

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 Visual representation of a dynamic load test setup, including the dynamic load
generator (e.g., drop hammer) and instrumentation (accelerometers, strain gauges).

Figure:
Graph showing the dynamic response of the pile, with acceleration and strain data
recorded during the test.

3. Osterberg Cell Test:

Illustration:
Cross-sectional view of a pile with an embedded Osterberg cell, showcasing the
hydraulic jack and instrumentation.

Figure:
Load distribution diagram along the pile shaft, indicating the side and base resistances
measured by the Osterberg cell.

Plate Load Tests:

1. Rigid Plate Test:
Illustration:
A schematic illustrating the setup of a rigid plate on the ground surface, load
application, and instrumentation for measuring settlements.

Figure:
Load-settlement curve representing the behavior of the rigid plate on the soil.

2. Flexible Plate Test:

Illustration:

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 A visualization of a flexible plate being loaded, showcasing its deformation and the
measurement instruments capturing elastic and inelastic settlements.

Figure:
Load-settlement curve reflecting the flexibility of the soil-structure system.
3. Settlement Gauge Test:

Illustration:
A diagram showing the placement of settlement gauges or dial gauges on the ground
surface, recording settlements during load application.

Figure:
Graph displaying settlement measurements at different locations, providing insights
into soil behavior.

References

• American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE): https://www.asce.org/

• ASTM International: https://www.astm.org/
• Federal Highway Administration (FHWA): https://highways.dot.gov/
• National Geotechnical Experimentation and Evaluation Center
(NCEE): https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/engineering/geotech/library_listing.cfm

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