Assessment of Pile Capacity Using Bidirectional Static Load Test (BDSLT)

Abstract

Bidirectional Static Load Test (BDSLT), an innovative load test method, two static load tests performed simultaneously in opposite directions, adopting sacrificial hydraulic cells was globally used in the deep foundation industry. This paper presents the results of value engineering and optimization of the foundation design for the proposed pile tests from the Dubai Creek Harbour Project on plot no. A004, Dubai, UAE. The main objective of this load test was to proof-load the test pile to its ultimate capacity using the BDSLT method. For this purpose, 4 × 900 tons of capacity hydraulic cell/jacks was utilized. Two test piles of 1500 mm diameter were used, namely PTP1 and PTP2. Five levels of Geokon USA model 4200 vibrating wire-type strain gauges comprising four units at each level were also installed on the test pile to measure strain at nominated locations, and from that, load and unit skin frictions were derived. Results indicate that the skin friction was increased from values reported before pile testing. Pile capacities were optimized using the skin friction values obtained from the load test results.