Reliability verification using proof pile load tests

Proof pile load tests are an important means to cope with uncertainties in the design and construction of pile foundations. In this paper, a systematic method to incorporate the results of proof load tests not conducted to failure into the design of pile foundations is developed. In addition, illustrative acceptance criteria for driven piles based on proof load tests are proposed for use in a reliability-based design. Finally, modifications to conventional proof test procedures are studied so that the value derived from proof tests can be maximized. Whether or not a proof test is conducted to failure, its results can be used to update the probability distribution of the pile capacity using the method proposed in this paper. Hence, contributions of the proof test can be included in foundation design in a logical manner by considering several load test parameters such as the number of tests, the test load, the factor of safety, and test results. This adds value to proof load tests and warrants improvements in the procedures for acceptance of pile foundations using proof load tests. A larger test load for proof tests, say 1.5 times the predicted pile capacity, is recommended since it will yield more information about the capacity statistics and thus allow for more economical designs.