Bidirectional Static Load Test (Bdslt) Using Instrumented Pile: An Innovate Testing Method in the Construction Industry

The application of a static load test in the optimisation and verification of pile design is mandatory in any foundation industry. Bi-Directional Static Load Test (BDSLT) is carried out using a hydraulically driven, purpose built, calibrated, sacrificial loading cell installed within the foundation unit. As the load is applied to the cell, it begins working in two directions; upward against upper side shear and downward against base resistance and lower side shear. Bidirectional Static Load Test (BDSLT) is a modern full-scale proofing load test method in the realm of performance-based pile design. Due to the many advantages over the conventional top-down load test, the Bidirectional Static Loading Test (BDSLT) using the hydraulic jacks is becoming an increasingly popular way to determine the ultimate capacity of deep foundations. Bidirectional loading tests are now becoming common practice around the Middle East and other countries, more convenient than traditional top-down loading tests. Strainstall has pioneered a practice of bidirectional test in conjunction with strain gauge instrumentation, which has vastly contributed to the knowledge and state of the art of pile response to load. This test is widely used in both preliminary and working compression and tension tests. BDSLT was carried out for a 2000 mm diameter pile in Dubai to a test load of 15,700 KN along with twenty levels of strain gauges to understand the geotechnical behaviour of the pile, also discuss the influence of different parameters on strain gauge reading and its possible solutions.