Pile Tests, Low-Sill Structure, Old River, Louisiana

Abstract

A comprehensive pile testing program was undertaken at the site for the low-sill structure for control of the Old River, Louisiana. The object of the program was to determine the required type, size, and length of piles necessary to carry the design compression and tension loading without any significant movement of the structure. Information regarding the driving of displacement and nondisplacement types of piles was also desired. Fourteen-inch H-piles and pipe piles ranging from 16 in. to 20 in. in diameter were driven and tested. The details of the loading arrangement and test procedures are described. Because from 50 ft to 60 ft of alternating strata of silty sands, sandy silts, and clay overlie the sand beneath the structure, both the total bearing capacity and the bearing capacity of only the section of the piles penetrating into the sand were measured. The lo ad carried by that section was computed from strain measurements that were made on rods attached at different points along the pile. After the compression tests were completed, the piles were allowed to rest and tension tests were performed on all piles but one.