A new standard from ASTM International aims to provide a modern standard for load testing of deep foundations to help support major projects such as roads, bridges, and other structures.
D8169/D8169M was developed by ASTM International’s committee on soil and rock (D18).
For more than 100 years, full-scale static load testing has helped engineers of deep-foundation designs. According to ASTM International member and LTC President Robert Simpson, since 1985 bi-directional load testing has become more prevalent, leading to the need for test methods described in the new standard.
“Many companies now offer bi-directional testing services, but some have significantly less experience than the original small group of users,” Simpson said. “That’s why this new standard is so essential.”
Engineers, designers, and contractors—in addition to specialty load test subcontractors—will be the main users of the new standard. Government agencies, such as the U.S. Federal Highway Administration and various departments of transportation, are also encouraged to refer to the new standard.