Load testing, when performed professionally, can help a contractor meet complex code requirements. By confirming certain calculations and providing additional information about the deep foundation plan, a well-performed load test is essential to ensure that the foundation is strong enough to pass all structural requirements and inspections.
Load Testing 101
A load test is performed by applying pressure to a specific pile in predetermined directions; either by compression (push), tension (pull), or laterally. The load is generally applied via a hydraulic jack to make sure the pressure is equal to the final load requirement. A reaction frame is then applied against the hydraulic jack. Once activated, any movement of the pile or the test apparatus is monitored and logged, and the results are used to determine the capacity of the pile being tested.
Load Testing Accessibility
One of the main challenges to safe load testing is having enough space for the reaction beam and other equipment. Whether it’s inside a building, twenty feet below grade or someplace with limited access to utilities, Conte Company can perform challenging load tests accurately and safely. With our custom-designed reaction beam, we’ll get everything in place with no surprises and test to over 200 kips.
As you can see in the job below, load testing was pretty tight at this natural gas substation, where caution, safety and accurate load test results were an absolute MUST, which is why they hired Conte Company.
Load Testing Services from Conte Company
Conte Company has the engineering experience and the required tools to perform geotechnical load tests on a variety of deep foundation systems. We’ve done hundreds of load tests on everything from micropiles and helical piles, to augercast, vibro stone columns and aggregate pier systems. While we do provide deep foundation installation services as well, many of our load testing clients come to us for accurate, unbiased, 3rd party data.
Our tests are performed following ASTM, D1143, D36889 and D3966.
need Reliable load testing?
Call Conte Company for a quick evaluation.