The Effectiveness of determining the Load-bearing Capacity of Piles based on the Results of Pile Dynamic Testing: The Case Study of Long An Province, Vietnam

Abstract

Determining the load-bearing capacity of piles currently relies on various field experimental methods, with static pile compression loading testing and dynamic pile testing through Pile Driving Analysis (PDA) being widely accepted as reliable practices. However, the application of PDA tests faces limitations, especially in construction projects with weak soil profile while the static pile load test usually requires high testing costs. Consequently, the conventional dynamic pile testing method, checking the resistance through a number of dynamic hammer blows, is commonly utilized. Despite its prevalence, there has been limited research on the traditional dynamic pile testing method. In light of this, the present study aims to examine the traditional approach by analytical and numerical simulations. By doing so, it seeks to offer a more objective and comprehensive understanding of its effectiveness when compared to alternative methods.