Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a method and apparatus for testing the static load-bearing capacity of a pile. In an embodiment, one or more means for applying a test load can be disposed within a pile such that a pile element can be above the means for applying a test load, and a pile element can be below the means for applying a test load. Upon applying a test load, the pile element above the means for applying a test load and the pile element below the means for applying a test load tend to separate. The test loads applied to the pile can be controlled in response to the magnitude of the test load, the combined settlement rate of the pile elements, the displacement of the pile elements, and the compression of the pile elements. A test regime can continue until a programmed regime is completed or a fail-safe trigger event occurs.

Abstract: The present application relates to method of designing and forming a foundation element by consideration of a number of parameters including the contribution of ground material to the overall bearing capacity of the element. Techniques for analysing the load bearing capacity of a composite foundation element are also described which take into consideration the volume of ground material that exists between neighbouring discrete concrete sections.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method and apparatus for testing the static load-bearing capacity of a pile, wherein a test load is applied to the top of the pile (2) by way of a jack (1) braced against a reaction member (3) and the magnitude of the test load and the resulting displacement of the pile are measured and communicated to an electronic computer (7). The electronic computer (7) issues control signals to the jack (1) in response to the measured magnitude of the test load so as to apply a predetermined regime of test loads to the top of the pile (2). By automatically monitoring the applied test load, it is possible to maintain a desired load with a high level of accuracy for an extended period of time without the need for operator intervention.