Computational validation of static and dynamic plate load testing

In this paper, the static load plate test and the dynamic load plate test by means of the light falling weight device are assessed utilizing numerical simulations. Simplified computational models of the tested subsoil and of the testing devices are developed, which capture the main effects of both the static and the dynamic load plate test. In extensive parametric studies, the impact of various subsoil conditions on the test results and several sources of error are evaluated and discussed. Computational test results of the static load plate test and of the dynamic load plate test are set in contrast to an effort to demonstrate the differences and the common features of the outcomes.