Assessment of load test program for reliability-based design of piles

Abstract

Quantifying the uncertainty of the bearing capacity of piles is crucial in the context of reliability-based design (RBD) for pile foundations. The utilization of site-specific load test data plays a pivotal role in reducing the uncertainty associated with bearing capacity, thereby enhancing the overall design of pile foundations. However, prior to initiating a load test program, there exists uncertainty both in the outcomes of the program and the potential benefits it may yield. This research endeavors to develop a method that allows for assessing the effectiveness of a load test program before its execution. The structure of this paper is as follows: firstly, it introduces a framework for evaluating the utility of the pile load test (PLT) program. Subsequently, it constructs a pre-posterior analysis to examine the anticipated benefits derived from the load test program. Finally, the proposed methodology is elaborated upon through a detailed example. This paper is valuable for enhancing decision-making in optimizing pile load test programs.