The Dynamic Load Test has been used on deep foundation projects worldwide since 1970. It uses the equipment PDA (Pile Driving Analyser) and it can be applied in all types of piles (precast, steel, timber or drilled shafts).

In driven piles the test can be displayed during the pile driving or in the beginning of restrike, using the pile driving machine available on site. During the test, in real time, are provided the following informations by the Case Method:

• Evaluation of mobilized loads on soil and pile surface (pile capacity)
• Tension and compression stresses along the pile lenght
• Determination of the percussion system efficiency parameters (assisting in the determination of a more productive drop height of the hammer)
• Evaluation of pile integrity

The data collected on site are then analyzed by the CAPWAP Method, confirming the mobilized load. The CAPWAP Method confirms the information obtained by the Case Method, determining the shaft friction distribution, the toe resistance and simulates the load vs settlement curve of a static load test.

The product of this service, dynamic load test report, includes all items recommended by the Brazilian Standard NBR 6122:2010  – Piles – Dynamic load test, in addition to the mobilized load through RMX vs DMX curves on the dynamic increasing energy test, among other analyses that might be asked if necessary (evolution of shaft friction and toe resistance with increasing energy and failure of the soil and pile system).

The CAPWAP presents a disadvantage. In order to obtain a good performance a good data collecting is necessary along with the analyses done by a highly qualified experienced CAPWAP operator, that is, the Method is operator dependent.

Fountest provides a special attention for preparing the test, which can directly compromise the quality of the data collected as done incorrectly or on the execution imposed on the Brazilian Standard.

Our differentials are:

• We provide high quality CAPWAP analyses, allowing a better correlation with the geotechnical aspects of the site and with static load tests
• We can also provide a CAPWAP analyses for each blow applied on the dynamic increasing energy test, allowing the evaluation of the shaft friction, the toe resistance and the simulated load vs settlement curve.
• The tests are performed by engineers with a Master of Science’s degree and Advanced level on Dynamic Measurement and Analysis Proficiency Test from the manufacturer of the equipment Pile Dynamics, Inc. and PDCA (Pile Driving Contractors Association).