Astm D4945 12

Designation: D4945 − 12
Standard Test Method for

High-Strain Dynamic Testing of Deep Foundations1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4945; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as

standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
1.1 This dynamic test method covers the procedure for
standard.
applying an axial impact force with a pile driving hammer or
a large drop weight that will cause a relatively high strain at the 1.6 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the
top of an individual vertical or inclined deep foundation unit, guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in
and for measuring the subsequent force and velocity response Practice D6026.
of that deep foundation unit. High-strain dynamic testing 1.7 The method used to specify how data are collected,
applies to any deep foundation unit, also referred to herein as calculated, or recorded in this standard is not directly related to
a “pile,” which functions in a manner similar to a driven pile or the accuracy to which the data can be applied in design or other
a cast-in-place pile regardless of the method of installation, and uses, or both. How one applies the results obtained using this
which conforms with the requirements of this test method. standard is beyond its scope.
1.2 This standard provides minimum requirements for dy- 1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the
namic testing of deep foundations. Plans, specifications, or safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
provisions (or combinations thereof) prepared by a qualified responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
engineer may provide additional requirements and procedures priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
as needed to satisfy the objectives of a particular test program. bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific
The engineer in responsible charge of the foundation design, precautionary statement, see Note 4.
referred to herein as the “Engineer”, shall approve any
deviations, deletions, or additions to the requirements of this 2. Referenced Documents
standard. 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
C469 Test Method for Static Modulus of Elasticity and
1.3 The proper conduct and evaluation of high-strain dy-
Poisson’s Ratio of Concrete in Compression
namic tests requires special knowledge and experience. A
D198 Test Methods of Static Tests of Lumber in Structural
qualified engineer should directly supervise the acquisition of
Sizes
field data and the interpretation of the test results so as to
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
predict the actual performance and adequacy of deep founda-
Fluids
tions used in the constructed foundation. A qualified engineer
D1143/D1143M Test Methods for Deep Foundations Under
shall approve the apparatus used for applying the impact force,
Static Axial Compressive Load
driving appurtenances, test rigging, hoist equipment, support
D3689 Test Methods for Deep Foundations Under Static
frames, templates, and test procedures.
Axial Tensile Load
1.4 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered Used in Engineering Design and Construction
as requirements of the standard. The word “shall” indicates a D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical
mandatory provision, and the word “should” indicates a Data
recommended or advisory provision. Imperative sentences
indicate mandatory provisions. 3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For common definitions of terms used in
this standard, see Terminology D653.
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and
2
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.11 on Deep Foundations. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved May 1, 2012. Published June 2012. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1989. Last previous edition approved in 2008 as D4945 – 08. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D4945-12. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
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D4945 − 12
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: 3.2.7 hammer cushion, n—the material inserted between the
3.2.1 cast in-place pile, n—a deep foundation unit made of hammer striker plate and the helmet on top of the deep
cement grout or concrete and constructed in its final location, foundation.
for example, drilled shafts, bored piles, caissons, auger cast 3.2.8 impact event, n—the period of time during which the
piles, pressure-injected footings, etc. deep foundation is moving due to the impact force application.
3.2.2 deep foundation, n—a relatively slender structural See Fig. 1.
element that transmits some or all of the load it supports to the 3.2.9 impact force, n—in the case of strain transducers, the
soil or rock well below the ground surface, that is, a driven impact force is obtained by multiplying the measured strain (ε)
pile, a cast-in-place pile, or an alternate structural element with the cross-sectional area (A) and the dynamic modulus of
having a similar function. elasticity (E).
3.2.3 deep foundation cushion, n—the material inserted 3.2.10 mandrel, n—a stiff structural member placed inside a
between the helmet on top of the deep foundation and the deep thin shell to allow impact installation of the thin section shell.
foundation (usually plywood).
3.2.11 moment of impact, n—the first time after the start of
3.2.4 deep foundation impedance, n—a measure of the deep the impact event when the acceleration is zero. See Fig. 1.
foundation’s resistance to motion when subjected to an impact
3.2.12 particle velocity, n—the instantaneous velocity of a
event. Deep foundation impedance can be calculated by
particle in the deep foundation as a strain wave passes by.
multiplying the cross-sectional area by the dynamic modulus of
elasticity and dividing the product by the wave speed. 3.2.13 restrike, n or v—the redriving of a previously driven
Alternatively, the impedance can be calculated by multiplying pile, typically after a waiting period of 15 min to 30 days or
the mass density by the wave speed and cross-sectional area. more, to assess changes in ultimate axial compressive static
capacity during the time elapsed after the initial installation.
Z 5 ~ EA/c ! 5 ρcA (1)
3.2.14 wave speed, n—the speed with which a strain wave
where: propagates through a deep foundation. It is a property of the
Z = impedance, deep foundation composition and for one-dimensional wave
E = dynamic modulus of elasticity, propagation is equal to the square root of the quotient of the
A = cross-sectional area, Modulus of Elasticity divided by mass density: c = (E/ρ) 1/2.
c = wave speed, and
ρ = mass density. 4. Significance and Use
3.2.5 driven pile, n—a deep foundation unit made of pre- 4.1 Based on the measurements from strain or force, and
formed material with a predetermined shape and size and acceleration, velocity, or displacement transducers, this test
typically installed by impact hammering, vibrating, or pushing. method obtains the force and velocity induced in a pile during
3.2.6 follower, n—a structural section placed between the an axial impact event (see Figs. 1 and 2). The Engineer may
impact device and the deep foundation during installation or analyze the acquired data using engineering principles and
testing. judgment to evaluate the integrity of the pile, the performance
FIG. 1 Typical Force and Velocity Traces Generated by the Apparatus for Obtaining Dynamic Measurements
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D4945 − 12
event to fully mobilize the capacity. However, high displacement driven
piles may require greater movement to avoid under predicting the static
capacity, and cast-in-place piles often require a larger cumulative perma-
nent net penetration for a series of test blows to fully mobilize the
capacity. Static capacity may also decrease or increase over time after the
pile installation, and both static and dynamic tests represent the capacity
at the time of the respective test. Correlations between measured ultimate
axial static compression capacity and dynamic test estimates generally
improve when using dynamic restrike tests that account for soil strength
changes with time (see 6.8).
NOTE 2—Although interpretation of the dynamic test analysis may
provide an estimate of the pile’s tension (uplift) capacity, users of this
standard are cautioned to interpret conservatively the side resistance
estimated from analysis of a single dynamic measurement location, and to
avoid tension capacity estimates altogether for piles with less than 10 m
embedded length. (Additional transducers embedded near the pile toe may
also help improve tension capacity estimates.) If the Engineer does not
have adequate previous experience for the specific site and pile type with
the analysis of dynamic test data for tension capacity, then a static load test
carried out according to Test Method D3689 should be used to verify
tension capacity estimates. Test Method D3689 provides a direct and more
reliable measurement of static tension capacity.
NOTE 3—The quality of the result produced by this test method is
dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the
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suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the
criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent
and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this test method
are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself
assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice
D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
5. Apparatus
FIG. 2 Typical Arrangement for High-Strain Dynamic Testing of a 5.1 Impact Device—A high-strain dynamic test measures
Deep Foundation the pile response to an impact force applied at the pile head and
in concentric alignment with its long axis (see Figs. 2 and 3).
of the impact system, and the maximum compressive and The device used to apply the impact force should provide
tensile stresses occurring in the pile. sufficient energy to cause pile penetration during the impact
event adequate to mobilize the desired capacity, generally
4.2 If sufficient axial movement occurs during the impact producing a maximum impact force of the same order of
event, and after assessing the resulting dynamic soil response magnitude, or greater than, the ultimate pile capacity (static
along the side and bottom of the pile, the Engineer may analyze plus dynamic). The Engineer may approve a conventional pile
the results of a high-strain dynamic test to estimate the ultimate driving hammer, drop weight, or similar impact device based
axial static compression capacity (see Note 1). Factors that on predictive dynamic analysis, experience, or both. The
may affect the axial static capacity estimated from dynamic impact shall not result in dynamic stresses that will damage the
tests include, but are not limited to the: (1) pile installation pile, typically less than the yield strength of the pile material
equipment and procedures, (2) elapsed time since initial after reduction for potential bending and non-uniform stresses
installation, (3) pile material properties and dimensions, (4) (commonly 90 % of yield for steel and 85 % for concrete). The
type, density, strength, stratification, and saturation of the soil, Engineer may require cushions, variable control of the impact
or rock, or both adjacent to and beneath the pile, (5) quality or energy (drop height, stroke, fuel settings, hydraulic pressure,
type of dynamic test data, (6) foundation settlement, (7) etc.), or both to prevent excessive stress in the pile during all
analysis method, and (8) engineering judgment and experience. phases of pile testing.
If the Engineer does not have adequate previous experience
with these factors, and with the analysis of dynamic test data, 5.2 Dynamic Measurements—The dynamic measurement
then a static load test carried out according to Test Method apparatus shall include transducers mounted externally on the
D1143/D1143M should be used to verify estimates of static pile surface, or embedded within a concrete pile, that are
capacity and its distribution along the pile length. Test Method capable of independently measuring strain and acceleration
D1143/D1143M provides a direct and more reliable measure- versus time during the impact event at a minimum of one
ment of static capacity. specific location along the pile length as described in 5.2.7.
NOTE 1—The analysis of a dynamic test will under predict the ultimate 5.2.1 External Transducers—For externally mounted
axial static compression capacity if the pile movement during the impact transducers, remove any unsound or deleterious material from
event is too small. The Engineer should determine how the size and shape the pile surface and firmly attach a minimum of two of each of
of the pile, and the properties of the soil or rock beneath and adjacent to
the pile, affect the amount of movement required to fully mobilize the type of transducer at a measurement location that will not
static capacity. A permanent net penetration of as little as 2 mm per impact penetrate the ground using bolts, screws, glue, solder, welds, or
may indicate that sufficient movement has occurred during the impact similar attachment.

D4945 − 12
strain transducers, and place all transducers so that they have
immediate contact with the pile material.
5.2.4 Strain Transducers—The strain transducers shall in-
clude compensation for temperature effects, and shall have
linear output over the full operating range (typically between
–2000 and +2000 microstrain plus an additional allowance for
possible strain induced by mounting on a rough surface).
Attachment points shall be spaced (dimensions S and H in
Figs. 4-7) no less than 50 mm and no more than 100 mm apart.
When attached to the pile, their natural frequency shall be in
excess of 2000 Hz.
5.2.4.1 As an alternate to strain transducers, axial force
measurements can be made by force transducers placed be-
tween the pile head and the impact device, or affixed in the pile
cross-section, although such transducers may alter the dynamic
characteristics of the driving system, the dynamic pile
response, or both. Force transducers shall have impedance
between 50 and 200 % of the pile impedance. The output signal
shall be linearly proportional to the axial force, even under
eccentric load application. The connection between the force
transducers and the deep foundation shall have the smallest
possible mass and least possible cushion necessary to prevent
damage.
5.2.5 Acceleration, Velocity, or Displacement
Transducers—Velocity data shall be obtained by using the
dynamic measurement apparatus to integrate the acceleration
NOTE 1—Strain transducer and accelerometer may be combined into

one unit on each side of the deep foundation.
FIG. 3 Schematic Diagram of Apparatus for Dynamic Monitoring
of Deep Foundations
5.2.2 Embedded Transducers—Position the embedded

transducers at each measurement location prior to placing the
pile concrete, firmly supported by the pile reinforcement or
formwork to maintain the transducer location and orientation
during the concrete placement. When located near the pile
head, one of each type of embedded transducer located at the
centroid of the pile cross-section should provide adequate
measurement accuracy, which may be checked by proportion-
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ality (see 6.9). Embedded transducers installed along the pile
length and near the pile toe help define the distribution of the
dynamic load within the pile, but usually require data quality
checks other than proportionality, such as redundant transduc-
ers (see 6.9). Embedded transducers shall provide firm anchor-
age to the pile concrete to obtain accurate measurements; the
anchorage and sensors should not significantly change the pile
impedance.
5.2.3 Transducer Accuracy—The transducers shall be cali-
brated prior to installation or mounting to an accuracy of 3 %
throughout the applicable measurement range. If damaged or
functioning improperly, the transducers shall be replaced,
repaired and recalibrated, or rejected. The design of
transducers, whether mounted or embedded as single units or
as a combined unit, shall maintain the accuracy of, and prevent
NOTE 1—Shown as separate transducers or alternative combined
interference between, the individual measurements. In general, transducers.
avoid mounting or embedding acceleration, velocity, or dis- FIG. 4 Typical Arrangement for Attaching Transducers to
placement transducers so that they bear directly on the force or Pipe Piles

D4945 − 12
NOTE 1—Shown as separate transducers. NOTE 1—Shown as combined transducers.

FIG. 5 Typical Arrangement for Attaching Transducers to Con- FIG. 6 Typical Arrangement for Attaching Transducers to
crete Piles Wood Piles
signals from accelerometers. The accelerometers shall be cancel axial bending stresses. Arrange accelerometers so that
directly attached to the pile surface, mounted to the pile with when averaged their measurements cancel movements due to
small rigid (solid, nearly cubic shape) metal blocks, or embed- bending. Unless located at the pile centroid, place similar types
ded in the pile. Do not use overhanging brackets or plastic of transducer so that they are symmetrically opposed and
mounting blocks that can deform during impact. Accelerom- equidistant from the pile centroid in a plane perpendicular to
eters shall be linear to at least 1000 g and 1000 Hz for concrete the pile axis. Verify the final position, firm connection, and
piles. For steel piles, it is advisable to use accelerometers that alignment of all transducers, both external and embedded.
are linear to at least 2000 g and 2000 Hz. For piezoelectric Section 6.9 describes an important proportionality check re-
accelerometers using an AC coupled signal path, the resonant quired for both external and embedded transducers that helps
frequency shall be above 30 000 Hz when rigidly mounted, or verify measurement accuracy.
above 10 000 Hz if the mounting is damped, and the time
constant shall be at least 1.0 s to preserve the low frequency 5.3 Signal Transmission—The signals from the transducers
signal content. If piezoresistive accelerometers are used, then shall be transmitted to the apparatus for recording, processing,
they should have a resonant frequency of at least 2500 Hz and and displaying the data (see 5.4) by means of a cable or
a damped mounting. Alternatively, velocity or displacement wireless equivalent. An intermediate apparatus may be used for
transducers may be used to obtain velocity data, provided they initial signal processing prior to transmission of the signal data
are equivalent in performance to the specified accelerometers. to the apparatus for recording, processing, and displaying the
5.2.6 Combined Transducers—Force and velocity instru- data if the processing functions it provides meet the require-
mentation may use individual transducers connected separately ments of 5.4. Cables shall be shielded to limit electronic and
to the pile, or transducers connected together and attached to other transmission interference. If wireless transmission is
the pile as a combined unit. used, the signals arriving at the apparatus shall accurately
5.2.7 Placement of Transducers—To avoid irregular stress represent the continuity and magnitude of the transducer
concentrations at the ends of the pile, locate transducers a measurements over the frequency range of the dynamic mea-
distance of at least 1.5 times the pile width from the top (or surement apparatus.
bottom) of pile as illustrated in Figs. 4-7. (These figures are 5.4 Recording, Processing, and Displaying Data:
typical, but not exclusionary.) Align transducers with their 5.4.1 General—The signals from the transducers (see 5.2)
sensitive direction parallel to the long axis of the pile. Arrange shall be transmitted during the impact event to an apparatus for
strain transducers so that when averaged their measurements recording, processing, and displaying the data. The apparatus
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D4945 − 12
000 Hz for timber or steel piles. Both analog and digital
processing shall include signal conditioning that retains the
frequency content appropriate to the sampling rate of the
interpreted velocity signal. The minimum total time sampled
for each impact event shall be the greater of 100 milliseconds
or 3L/c (where L is the pile length and c is the pile material
wave speed) with most of this time following the moment of
impact as shown in Fig. 1.
5.4.3 Processing Data—As a minimum, the apparatus for
processing signals from the transducers shall provide the
following functions:
5.4.3.1 Force Measurements—The apparatus shall provide
signal conditioning for the force measurement system. If strain
transducers are used (see 5.2.4), the apparatus shall compute
the net axial force on the cross-section of the pile. The force
output shall be balanced to a reference level (for example,
zero) prior to the impact event.
5.4.3.2 Velocity Data—If accelerometers are used (see
5.2.5), the apparatus shall integrate the acceleration over time
to obtain velocity. If displacement transducers are used, the
apparatus shall differentiate the displacement over time to
obtain velocity. If required, the apparatus shall zero the
velocity between impact events and shall adjust the velocity
record to account for transducer zero drift during the impact
event.
5.4.3.3 Signal Conditioning—The signal conditioning for
force and velocity shall have equal frequency response curves
to avoid relative phase shifts and relative amplitude differences
and retain all frequency components in the data below at least
2000 Hz.
NOTE 1—Shown as separate transducers.
FIG. 7 Typical Arrangement for Attaching Transducers to H-Piles
5.4.4 Display of Data—For each impact event, the raw or
processed signals from the transducers specified in 5.2 shall be
displayed during data acquisition or replay as a function of
shall include a visual graphics display of the force and velocity time, such as on a digital graphics display.
versus time, non-volatile memory for retaining data for future 5.4.5 Field Supervision—A qualified engineer shall directly
analysis, and a computational means to provide results consis- supervise all field testing and assess data quality and reliability
tent with Engineer’s field testing objectives, for example, for later detailed evaluation (see 6.9). Alternatively, field
maximum stresses, maximum displacement, energy transferred personnel may transmit the data concurrently as acquired to a
to the pile, etc. The apparatus for recording, processing, and qualified engineer supervising the testing from a remote
displaying data shall include compensation for temperature location.
effects and provide a self-calibration check of the apparatus for
recording, processing and displaying. No error shall exceed
6. Procedure
2 % of the maximum signal expected. Fig. 3 shows a typical
schematic arrangement for this apparatus. 6.1 General—Allow sufficient time for driven and cast-in-
5.4.2 Recording Data—The raw data from the transducers place deep foundations constructed of concrete to gain ad-
shall be recorded on site, electronically in digital form, with a equate structural strength prior to testing. Record applicable
minimum of 12 bit ADC resolution and including at most only project information (Section 7). Attach the transducers (Section
the minimal processing required to obtain the force and 5) to the deep foundation, perform any calibration checks
velocity. Transducer data recorded after minimal processing recommended by the equipment manufacturer, and take the
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shall also record the information required to recover the raw dynamic measurements for the impacts during the interval to
data signals for later reprocessing as needed, for example, be monitored together with routine observations of number of
calibrations, wave speed, mass density, pile area, etc. When blows per unit penetration (“blow count”) or set per blow.
determining velocity by analog integration of acceleration, or Determine the pile response to the high-strain dynamic test
analog differentiation of displacement, use a minimum sample from a minimum of ten impact records during initial driving
frequency for each data channel of 5000 Hz for concrete piles and, when used for soil resistance computations, normally from
and 10 000 Hz for timber or steel piles. When determining one or two representative blows at the beginning of a restrike.
velocity by digital integration of acceleration, or digital differ- NOTE 4—Warning—Never approach a deep foundation being tested
entiation of displacement, use a minimum sample frequency while the hammer or large drop weight is operating as materials or
for each data channel of 10 000 Hz for concrete piles and 40 appurtenances may break free and jeopardize the safety of persons in the

D4945 − 12
vicinity. Preferably the contractor crew will attach the transducers to the piles and wood piles may be determined from measurements made during
pile. a compression test performed in accordance with Test Methods C469 or
D198 respectively. The Engineer should then estimate the dynamic
6.2 Determination of Wave Speed for Deep Foundations— modulus (typically assumed 10 % greater) from this measurement.
The wave speed of concrete or wood piles should preferably be
determined from an early impact event if a tensile reflection 6.5 Preparation—Mark the pile clearly at appropriate unit
from the pile toe is clearly identified. Divide two times the intervals to prepare for recording blow counts. Attach the
length of pile below transducers by the observed time between transducers as described in Section 5. Determine the pile wave
start of the impact (for example, initial sharp rise of the signal) speed (see 6.2) and density (see 6.3). For concrete piles or
and the start of the tensile reflection (for example, later relative concrete filled pipe piles, place a pile cushion made of plywood
velocity increase) to obtain the wave speed. For piles with or other material with similar stiffness on top of the pile. For
instrumentation at both the head and near the toe, the wave concrete filled pipe piles, the concrete must completely fill the
speed can be calculated from dividing the distance between pile top so that the impact is transferred through the pile
these locations by the time between impact arrivals at these cushion to the concrete. Position the impact device on the pile
locations. Alternatively, place the pile on supports or level head to apply the impact force concentric with the long axis of
ground free and clear from neighboring piles and obstructions. the pile. Prepare the apparatus for recording, processing, and
Then attach an accelerometer to the pile and strike the end of displaying data to receive the dynamic measurements and
the pile with a sledge hammer of suitable weight. Take care not balance the strain (or force) and acceleration signals to their
to damage or dent the pile. Record (see 5.4.2) and display (see respective reference levels (for example, zero).
5.4.4) the accelerometer signal. Measure the total time between 6.6 Recording Hammer Information—Record the mass of
acceleration peaks for at least three cycles of reflection or 6L/c the hammer ram or drop weight. For drop hammers and single
(where L is the pile length and c is the pile material wave acting diesel and air/steam/hydraulic hammers, record the drop
speed). Divide the product of the number of cycles and twice height of the ram or the ram travel length. For double acting
the total pile length by this total time to determine the wave diesel hammers, measure the bounce pressure, and for double
speed. The wave speed of structural steel piles can be assumed acting steam or compressed air hammers, measure the steam or
as 5123 m/s. Assumed wave speed values, and those deter- air pressure in the pressure line to the hammer. For hydraulic
mined during a low strain event, should be verified directly or hammers or any of the previously listed hammer types, record
indirectly if possible. The overall wave speed observed during the kinetic energy from the hammer readout when available.
a high-strain event as described above may differ (typically Record the number of impact blows per minute delivered by
slower) from the local wave speed used to compute impedance the hammer.
because of variability in pile properties, degradation of pile
material during repeated hammer blows, or splices in the pile 6.7 Taking Measurements—Take, record, and display force
length. and velocity measurements for each impact event. Compare the
force and the product of velocity and impedance at the moment
6.3 Determination of Mass Density of Deep Foundations— of impact (see 6.9). Obtain the net permanent displacement per
The density of each wood pile shall be determined from the impact from the pile driving blow count record, or from marks
total weight of the pile, or a sample of the pile, the correspond- placed on the pile prior to and after the test using the same
ing volume, and the gravitational constant. The density of reference, directly from the displacement transducers (if used),
concrete or grout can be measured in a similar manner. or by integration of the velocity versus time record (typically
Alternately, the density of concrete piles is often assumed to be less reliable). Obtain the maximum energy transferred to the
2450 kg/m3 and the density of grout used for auger-cast or location of the transducers from the integral over time of force
similar types of piles is often assumed to be 2150 kg/m3. The multiplied by velocity.
mass density of structural steel piles can be assumed as 7850
kg/m3. The mass density of composite deep foundations, such 6.8 Time of Testing—Dynamic tests performed during the
as concrete filled steel pipes, can be computed from a weighted initial installation of a driven pile typically monitor the
average of the areas of the materials at each differing cross- performance of the impact device, the driving stresses in the
section. Assumed and computed values of mass density should pile, the pile integrity, and relative changes in capacity. If the
be verified directly if possible, or indirectly through their effect test results are used for static capacity computations, then
on impedance and proportionality (see 6.9). dynamic measurements should (also) be performed during
restrikes of the deep foundation, after waiting a period of time
6.4 Determination of Dynamic Modulus of Elasticity of
following the initial installation sufficient to allow pore water
Deep Foundations—The dynamic modulus of elasticity (E) for
pressure and soil strength changes to occur. (See Note 1.)
concrete, wood, steel, or composite piles can be computed as
the product of the square of the wave speed (determined as 6.9 Data Quality Checks—Confirm the accuracy of dynamic
indicated in 6.2) times the mass density (E = ρc 2). The measurements obtained near the pile head by periodically
dynamic modulus of elasticity may be assumed as 207 × 106 checking that the average of the measured force signals and the
kPa for structural steel. Assumed and computed values of the product of the impedance and the average of the measured
dynamic modulus of elasticity should be verified directly if velocity signals agree proportionally at the moment of impact.
possible, or indirectly through their effect on impedance and Do not expect proportionality when reflections occur from pile
proportionality (see 6.9). impedance changes nearby and below the transducers or from
NOTE 5—Alternatively, the static modulus of elasticity for concrete soil resistance, such as for transducers near the pile bottom or,
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D4945 − 12
depending on the rise time to the initial force peak, transducers smooth, flat, clean surface on which to mount the transducers
located between the pile head and the bottom. Reject non parallel to the pile axis. Because cast-in-place piles may have
proportional data. Two velocity signals should generally agree non uniform material properties and a variable, irregular
well at a particular measurement location, even though the two cross-section, when using externally mounted transducers con-
force signals may indicate significant bending. Two embedded sider placing four strain transducers equally spaced around the
strain measurements made in close proximity to the pile axis at perimeter and as described in 5.2.7. The average force deter-
the same location, or at adjacent locations on the pile axis, can mined from each diametrically opposed pair of transducers can
provide a consistency check of each other. For piles with a high then be compared together, and with the average velocity as in
percentage of end bearing, analysis of measurements made 6.9, to assess the data quality of all force measurements.
near the pile head may provide confirmation of measurements
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NOTE 7—The strength and dynamic modulus of elasticity for cast-in-
near the pile bottom. For an impact device delivering relatively place deep foundations depends on the quality and the age of concrete, and
similar impacts, the force and velocity versus time over a series can vary considerably over the cross-section and along the length of the
deep foundation. The dynamic modulus of elasticity as calculated from the
of consecutive impact events should be relatively consistent. wave speed (see 3.2) will therefore be an average value which may differ
Consistent and proportional signals of (average) force versus from the modulus at the transducer location. If the cast-in-place deep
(average) velocity times pile impedance are the result of the foundation is encased in a steel shell, then use a composite mass density
transducer systems performing properly and the apparatus for and composite dynamic modulus of elasticity.
recording, processing, and displaying data being properly
calibrated. If the signals are not consistent, or are not in 7. Report
proportionality agreement, investigate the cause and correct as 7.1 The report of the load test shall include any information
necessary. If the cause is loose or misaligned instrumentation, required by the Engineer plus the following information when
then correct the problem prior to continuing the test. If the applicable and as available.
cause is determined to be a transducer malfunction, it must be
repaired or recalibrated, or both, before further use. If the cause 7.2 General:
cannot be determined and rectified, then the test is to be 7.2.1 Project identification and location, and
rejected. Perform self-calibration checks of the apparatus used 7.2.2 Log(s) of nearby or typical test boring(s).
for recording, processing, and displaying data periodically
7.3 Deep Foundation Installation Equipment:
during testing as recommended by the manufacturer, and
recalibrate before further use if found to be out of manufac- 7.3.1 For driven piles: description of driving methods and
turer’s tolerance. installation equipment used for driving piles, testing piles, or
NOTE 6—It is generally recommended that all components of the both as appropriate, for example, make, model, and type of
apparatus for obtaining dynamic measurements and the apparatus for hammer, size (ram weight and stroke), manufacturer’s energy
recording, processing and displaying data be calibrated at least once every rating, capabilities, operating performance levels or pressures,
two years to the standards of the manufacturer. fuel settings, hammer cushion and pile cushion descriptions
6.10 Followers and Mandrels—If a follower is used for with cushion exchange details, and description of lead type and
installing and testing cast-in-place concrete deep foundations, any special installation equipment such as a follower, mandrel,
this follower should have an impedance between 80 and 150 % punch, pre-drill or jet.
of that of the deep foundation. However, additional caution and 7.3.2 For cast-in-place concrete piles: description of con-
analysis may be required if the impedance is not within 10 % struction methods, drilling or augering equipment, and con-
of that of the deep foundation. For mandrel-driven piles, the crete or grout placement, for example, type of drill rig, type
mandrel may be instrumented in a similar way to a driven pile and dimensions of drill tool(s), auger(s), and cleanout tool(s),
provided that the mandrel is constructed of a single member tremie, concrete or grout pump, and casings.
with no joints.
7.4 Test Pile(s):
6.11 Testing Cast-in-Place Deep Foundations—For testing
7.4.1 Identification (name and designation) of test pile(s),
cast-in-place piles it is often advantageous to build up the top
of the pile to encase protruding reinforcement, to strengthen it 7.4.2 Required ultimate axial static compressive capacity,
for the impact using a steel shell, or to eliminate excessive 7.4.3 Type and dimensions of deep foundation(s) including
excavation (sensors must be mounted at least 1.5 diameters nominal or actual cross-sectional area, or both, length, wall
below the impact location). The pile top should be flat and thickness of pipe or casing, and diameter (as a function length
square to the longitudinal pile axis, and should be protected for tapered or composite deep foundations),
with plywood cushions, or other cushion material of uniform 7.4.4 For driven or cast-in-place concrete piles: date(s) test
thickness. A thick steel plate may also be placed on top of the pile constructed or cast, design and measured concrete cylinder
plywood to distribute the impact. Preferably apply a series of strengths and date of test(s), density, effective prestress, and
single impact blows using a drop mass having a weight of at description of internal and external reinforcement (type, grade,
least 1 to 2 % of the desired ultimate test capacity, beginning size, length, number and arrangement of prestress wire, longi-
with a low drop height to check transducer function and pile tudinal bars, lateral ties, and spiral stiffeners; casing or shell
stresses and then progressing to greater drop heights to size and length),
mobilize additional pile capacity. For externally mounted 7.4.5 For steel piles: steel designation, grade, minimum
transducers, carefully select transducer locations having sound yield strength, and type of pile (for example, seamless or spiral
concrete, and grind or sand the pile as necessary to obtain a weld pipe, H section designation),

D4945 − 12
7.4.6 For timber piles: length, straightness, preservative appropriate the overall magnitude of the dynamic and static
treatment, tip and butt dimensions (and area as a function of axial compressive capacity mobilized at the time of testing, the
length), and measured density for each pile, distribution of the dynamic and static axial compressive
7.4.7 Description and location of splices, special pile tip capacity along the pile length, and the engineering properties
protection, and any special coatings applied if applicable, of the pile and the soil or rock adjacent to the pile as used in
7.4.8 Inclination angle from vertical, design and installed, the interpretation,
and 7.6.8 Comments on the performance of the impact device as
7.4.9 Observations of deep foundations including spalled measured by the energy transferred into the deep foundation
areas, cracks, head surface of deep foundations. with comparison to manufacturer’s rating or ram weight and
7.5 Deep Foundation Installation : drop height,
7.5.1 For cast-in-place piles, include the volume of concrete 7.6.9 Comments on the driving stresses within the deep
or grout placed in deep foundation (volume versus depth, if foundation, and whether measured or estimated through
available), and a description of installation procedures used, analysis,
such as casing installation or extraction, 7.6.10 Comments on the integrity of the deep foundation,
7.5.2 For driven piles, include date of installation, driving and
records with blow count, and hammer stroke or operating level 7.6.11 Numerical summary of measured and interpreted
for final unit penetration, results, with statistical analysis as appropriate, reporting time
7.5.3 Elevations of the pile top, pile bottom, and ground in milliseconds at the rate digitized, and other quantities with
surface referenced to a datum, and three significant digits, but not to exceed the precision of the
7.5.4 Cause and duration of installation interruptions and measurement.
notation of any unusual occurrences.
7.6 Dynamic Testing: 8. Precision and Bias
7.6.1 Description of the dynamic test apparatus, including 8.1 Precision—Test data on precision is not presented due to
make, model, analog or digital velocity integration, sampling the nature of this test method. It is either not feasible or too
rate, transducers, measurement location(s), etc., costly at this time to have ten or more agencies participate in
7.6.2 Date of test(s), sequence of testing (for example, “end an in situ testing program at a given site. The inherent
of driving” or “beginning of restrike”), and elapsed time since variability of the soil, or rock, or both surrounding the pile, the
end of initial driving for restrikes, pile driving apparatus, and the pile itself adversely affect the
7.6.3 Density, wave speed, and dynamic modulus of elas- determination of precision.
ticity of the test deep foundation, reporting each quantity with 8.1.1 The Subcommittee D18.11 is seeking any data from
three significant digits, but not to exceed the precision of the the users of this test method that might be used to make a
measurement, limited statement on precision.
7.6.4 Penetration resistance (blows per unit penetration, or
set per blow) and embedment depth, 8.2 Bias—There is no accepted reference value for this test
7.6.5 Graphical presentation of velocity and force measure- method, therefore bias cannot be determined.
ments in the time domain for representative blows,
7.6.6 Analysis method(s) used to interpret or evaluate test 9. Keywords
measurements, 9.1 augered piles; deep foundations; drilled shafts; driven
7.6.7 Interpretation of the test measurements, including piles; driving stresses; dynamic testing; pile bearing capacity;
measurements down the pile if applicable, to estimate as pile driving hammer performance; pile integrity
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Designation: D4945 − 12

Standard Test Method for

1. Scope 1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as

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NOTE 1—Strain transducer and accelerometer may be combined into

5.2.2 Embedded Transducers—Position the embedded

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NOTE 1—Shown as separate transducers. NOTE 1—Shown as combined transducers.

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