scope:

Descriptions of types of piles, advantages, disadvantages, and usage of piles, equipment, and installation methods are discussed in these instructions.

a. Equipment. Proper equipment and installation methods are critical to prevent damage to the pile foundation during driving, to obtain adequate bearing capacity, and to minimize the cost of installation. Guidance is provided for monitoring the installation of piles including equipment operation, prevention of pile damage during installation, construction problems, and effects of driving on adjacent structures.

b. General Guidance. Guidance is provided on selection of equipment, verification of design, construction considerations, and the care and maintenance of piles.

c. Installation Methods. Special installation methods are sometimes required depending on the soil and the environment. Guidance is provided for pile installation assisted by jetting or where hammers or vibrators are not or cannot be used.

d. Case History. A case history study is included as an example of how to proceed with installation of a driven pile foundation. Guidance for design of driven piles is provided in TM 5-809-7.

e. Construction Guidance. Guidance for construction of drilled shafts is available in FHWA-HI-88-042 and Association of Drilled Shaft Contractors Publication.

PURPOSE. This document presents guidelines to assist the preparation of specifications for pile installation and for assessment of construction operations.