Dynamic load test on high capacity pile socketed in basaltic rock

This paper is about the installation of a large diameter pile into weathered basaltic rock and the interpretation of variable energy dynamic load test done with a specific free fall hydraulic hammer. This allows modulation up to 200kN with a maximum drop of 3 meters. A comparison is done with bearing capacity estimations, utilizing empirical methods. This article presents a case of a 1,30 meter diameter high capacity pile socketed in basaltic rock with a working load up to 4400kN. It also consists of the foundation and construction details, geological and geotechnical site characterization, the testing program, variable energy load test, pile instrumentation, tests results, discussions and conclusions.