This test method is used to provide data on strain or force and acceleration, velocity or displacement of a pile under impact force. The data are used to estimate the bearing capacity and the integrity of the pile, as well as hammer performance, pile stresses, and soil dynamics characteristics, such as soil damping coefficients and quake values. This test method is not intended to replace Test Method D 1143.

1.1 This test method covers the procedure for testing vertical or batter piles individually to determine the force and velocity response of the pile to an impact force applied axially by a pile driving hammer to the top of the pile. This test method is applicable to deep foundation units that function in a manner similar to foundation piles, regardless of their method of installation provided that they are receptive to high strain impact testing.

1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific precautionary statement, see Note 5.

Note 1--High-strain dynamic testing requires a strain at impact which is representative of a force in the pile having the same order of magnitude, or greater, than the ultimate capacity of the pile.

Note 2--This standard method may be applied for high-strain dynamic testing of piles with the use of only force or strain transducers and/or acceleration, velocity or displacement transducers as long as the test results clearly state how the testing deviates from the standard.

Note 3--A suitable follower may be required for testing cast-in-place concrete piles. This follower should have an impedance within 80 and 150% of that of the pile. However, additional caution and analysis may be required if the impedance is not within 10%. For mandrel driven piles, the mandrel may be instrumented in a similar way to a driven pile provided that the mandrel is constructed of a single member with no joints.