This note presents an alternative method for static load tests on piles (and caissons). Called Equilibrium Method by its first proponents, the method was applied in some load tests in Brazil, in addition to being the object of theoretical studies conducted at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. The method consists, in each step, to keep the load constant for a period of time and then let it relax (not pumping the jack) until the displacement and the load reach mutual equilibrium. The stabilized displacement and the relaxed load (the so-called load and displacement in equilibrium) are considered for the load-displacement curve. The method has the advantage of producing the load-displacement curve close to that of a slow, stabilized test (incremental slow maintained load test), but with a shorter total execution time. The paper includes a short theoretical background and a review of the Brazilian experience.  

Keywords: Pile load tests, Equilibrium Method, Pile foundations, Pile bearing capacity, Soil viscosity,

Submitted on September 23, 2020.
Final Acceptance on January 20, 2021.
Discussion open until May 31, 2021.
DOI: 10.28927/SR.2021.057920