Testing of bored piles with echo method is carried out using Pile Echo Tester developed by Piletest. It is a tool for quick pile integrity test (quality control) of a large number of piles. PET requires only little training.
PET is a modular, computer-independent system that connects to USB port or via Bluetooth of any laptop, tablet or smartphone.
To test a pile the user strikes it with lightweight handheld hammer.
The resulting signal (reflectogram) is captured by digital accelerometer and analyzed. After the signals are additionally automatically processed the information (reflectogram) about pile length and integrity is obtained (Figure 1).
Figure 1 – Sample reflectogram of integrity testing of 10-meter long bored pile
After the initial data is entered, the user can already see the coordinates of defects and pile length in metric coordinate system during the testing process. The PET system fully complies with international ASTM D5882-07 Standard Test Method for Low Strain Impact Integrity Testing of Deep Foundations. Pile integrity testing with Pile Echo Tester is based on theory of sound wave (high and low-frequency) propagation in solids It is one of the most advanced methods of pile testing developed worldwide in recent years. This test is designed to analyze all types of piles and detect pile shaft defects. Using the software supplied with equipment, our specialists can provide model of bored pile shaft as per reflectogram directly at the jobsite (Figure 2).
Figure 2 - Result of pile shaft modelling based on test data