This economic and reliable alternative to Static Load Tests determines bearing capacity of any type of deep foundation, using the Pile Driving Analyzer® and CAPWAP®. The free fall weight permits the testing of non-driven foundations.

Dynamic Load Testing is a fast, reliable and cost effective method of assessing pile foundation bearing capacity. SLP performs Dynamic Load Testing on driven piles, drilled shafts and other cast in place piles and usually conducts several tests in one single day.

In addition to bearing capacity, Dynamic Load Testing gives information on resi-stance distribution (shaft resistance and end bearing) and evaluates the shape and integrity of the foundation element.

The Dynamic Load Test (DLT) involves a substantial ram mass that impacts the top of the pile and causes it to experience at least a small permanent set.

Accelerometers and strain transducers attached to the pile measure force and velocity as the drop weight hits pile top.

SLP analyzes the measurements in real time using the Pile Driving Analyzer® (PDA). Data acquired in the field is further analyzed with the CAPWAP® software.

SLP engineers furnish a detailed report for each Dynamic Load testing project that includes a simulated static load test in the form of a calculated load-test curve.

SLP performs Dynamic Load Tests in accordance with ASTM D4945-00 Standard Test Method for High-Strain Dynamic Testing of Piles.

We offer the 3.8 and 11 ton dynamic loading system to perform dynamic load tests whenever a driving hammer is not available.

The 11ton free fall hammer can activate up to 12000 KN of test load or even more, if pile toe is in hard soil or rock, making Dynamic Load Testing a great low cost alternative to static or rapid load testing of large diameter drilled shafts.

Dynamic Pile Monitoring 

Monitoring driven pile installation with the Pile Driving Analyzer reveals pile capacity at time of driving; driving stresses and hammer performance, and checks pile integrity. It may be performed by a SLP Engineer on site or via cell phone from an office, using the remote data transmission feature of the Pile Driving Analyzer® model PAK.

Pile Driving Analyzer® PAK, Strain transducer and accelerometer mounted on a pile are the same as for Dynamic Load testing.

Dynamic Pile Monitoring helps achieve a safe and economical driven pile installation.

During pre-construction test programs, Dynamic Pile Monitoring helps formulate driving criteria. During the installation of production piles, it assures that driving happens in accordance with the established criterion. It gives information on soil resistance at the time of monitoring and on driving performance. Dynamic Pile Monitoring also reveals driving stresses, helping prevents pile damage. If damage is imminent, it shows an alert early enough to save the pile from complete destruction. Monitoring happens during driving in real time, without slowing down construction.

Data obtained during Pile Driving Monitoring may be used to determine static bearing capacity with CAPWAP® program.

Dynamic Pile Monitoring is based on the Case Method of pile testing and is known as the High Strain Method. It is covered by ASTM D4945-00 Standard Test Method for High-Strain Dynamic Testing of Piles.