The use of Osterberg cell load tests to predict piles resistance

The use of the Osterberg cells (O-cell) load testing technology has been applied in the last years as a complement to the geological and geotechnical information, allowing the prediction of piles and barrettes bearing and shaft resistance, as well as the verification of the construction procedures. The aim of this paper is to present a case history where the O-cell's were successfully used for the calibration of the piles execution and design, for a high rise building, located at the Luanda bay, in Angola, emphasizing its contribution for the optimization of the foundations design. At the end of the paper, the main advantages and limitations of the O-cell's, comparing with conventional top load static tests, also performed in the same site, are presented.