S E C T I O N S

Pile testing equipments

Geotrade can supply instrumentation for the main pile testing methods, namely:

1. Dynamic pile testing

2. Crosshole sonic logging

3. Pile integrity testing by echo hammer impact response

Pile Driving Analyzer (PDA) from Pile Dynamics, Inc.

The Pile Driving Analyzer technology applies dynamic measurements to solve piling problems. Force and acceleration measurements taken near the top of a pile during impact provide the necessary information for determining :

· Bearing capacity

· Hammer performance

· Maximum driving stresses

· Pile or shaft integrity

In routine use worldwide on over 3000 projects each year for the evaluation of both driven pile and drilled shaft deep foundations.

Significantly faster than static tests, it is a low cost and very reliable inspection tool. You save time. You save money. You gain quality assurance.

Sonic logging test

The sonic logging method is used to check the continuity of deep foundations, diaphragm walls or stay plates by detecting cracks or faults along the shaft or at the tip. The homogeneity and quality of concrete are measured and defects are located accurately, even at the tip of a pile.

Principle

In homogeneous concrete, sound velocity is constant, about 4000 m/s. It decreases rapidly if there are defects such as soil inclusion, cracks or segregation. Sonic logging is a continuous measurement of sound velocity along the pile between an emitting sensor and a receiving sensor lowered down two tubes.

1/3 Sonic log example

Pile integrity tester

The Pile integrity tester is used for augercast piles, driven concrete piles, concrete filled pipe piles, or drilled shafts. It detects potentially dangerous defects such as major cracks, necking, soil inclusions or voids.

PIT does not require advance planning or access tubes. This makes it the most affordable option when the pile integrity is questioned. An accelerometer attached to the top or side of the installed pile monitors the impact and resulting reflections of a small hand-held hammer.