Reliability of Pile Driving Analyzer for Determination of Axial Capacity of Large-Diameter Cylindrical Pile

Abstract

A case history involving the design and construction of the water pier foundations for a fixed high-level precast segmental bridge over the Shrewsbury River in Monmouth County, New Jersey, is presented. The water pier foundations are supported on 54-in. prestressed open-ended concrete cylindrical piles with a 6.0-in. wall thickness. Design concepts for cylindrical piles are outlined. Results of the pile load testing program on one pile are presented. The reliability of the pile driving analyzer and case pile wave analysis program data are evaluated based on the result of the static load test. Installation procedures and load-testing programs of the open-ended cylindrical piles are discussed. A comparison of case histories of large-diameter cylindrical piles is presented, drawing from a similar experience of a former project. Recommendations for design, construction, and dynamic testing of large-diameter cylindrical piles are made.