scope:

This test method describes procedures for testing vertical or inclined deep foundation elements to determine their behavior characteristics in response to an internally applied axial static load. This method is applicable to all deep foundations that function in the same manner as bored piles, regardless of their method of construction and installation.

Note 1-Bidirectional load testing has been successfully performed on driven piles. However, the installation and procedural differences associated with bidirectional load testing of driven piles are not covered in this standard.

This standard provides minimum requirements for bidirectional testing for deep foundation elements under controlled application of static axial compressive load.

The engineer responsible for the foundation design, referred to herein as the engineer, shall approve any deviations, deletions, or additions to the requirements of this standard.

Note 2-Plans, specifications, or provisions, or some combination thereof, prepared by a qualified engineer, may provide additional requirements and procedures as needed to satisfy the objectives of a particular test program.

Note 3-To determine the long-term performance of the foundation, the duration of each load step application may be extended and the test results may need additional interpretation.

A qualified engineer shall design and approve all loading apparatus, loaded members, and test procedures.

The values stated in SI units shall be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound equivalents of the SI units may be approximate.

All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in ASTM D6026.

The method used to specify how data are collected, calculated, or recorded in this standard is not directly related to the accuracy to which the data can be applied in design or other uses, or both. How the results obtained using this standard are applied is beyond the scope of this test standard.

This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, or equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

The quality of the results produced by this standard are dependent on the competence of the personnel performing the procedure and the capability, calibration, and maintenance of the equipment used. Agencies that meet the criteria of R 18 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with R 18 alone does not completely assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; following the suggestions of R 18 or some similar acceptable guideline provides a means of evaluating and controlling some of those factors.