Do integrity tests measure load-bearing capacity?

No. They assess aspects of integrity or pile response within method limitations; they do not replace a load-capacity assessment.

Which method is always best?

None: the objective, access and pile conditions determine what information can be obtained.

Is estimated length certain?

No: it depends on velocity assumptions, identifying the response and boundary conditions.

How to prepare a pile integrity test

Documents before the site visit

Prepare identifiers, design and as-built drawings, lengths, diameters and planned section changes. Link each record to the pile actually tested.

Provide stratigraphy, casting dates and logs, concrete information, construction incidents and previous tests. Declare missing information rather than replacing it with an unjustified assumed value.

Access, logistics and safety

Describe access, working space, interferences and site constraints. Preparation should enable measurements on identified piles without confusing positions, levels or connected components.

Agree actual test conditions with the responsible technician. This checklist supports organisation; it does not replace a safety plan or equipment-specific instructions.

Preparing for PIT and TRM

Make the head available and check whether concrete at the measurement area allows a reliable impact and contact. Identify caps, connections, projecting reinforcement and degraded zones affecting response.

No undocumented removal thicknesses or minimum dimensions are specified. Assess surface suitability, receiver arrangement and impact conditions for the actual configuration.

Preparing for Cross-Hole and traceability

For CSL, provide tube layout, identifiers, levels and known conditions. Check access, continuity and coupling conditions, agreeing preliminary checks with the investigation team.

Record preparation, restrictions and conditions at measurement. Results depend on this context too; reporting should maintain links between documents, pile and acquisitions.

Back to the main guide

Frequently asked questions

Do integrity tests measure load-bearing capacity?: No. They assess aspects of integrity or pile response within method limitations; they do not replace a load-capacity assessment.
Which method is always best?: None: the objective, access and pile conditions determine what information can be obtained.
Is estimated length certain?: No: it depends on velocity assumptions, identifying the response and boundary conditions.

References and documentary scope

What information does your project need?

Share the objective, site constraints and required deliverables so we can assess an appropriate survey strategy.

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