It’s a non destructive testing of deep foundations like
driven piles ,augered or bored piles. It is a low strain method for integrity testing of driven piles , drilled shafts etc. P.I.T is also called Sonic testing ,Pulse echo or Transit Response In some situation it can also be used to determine unknown lengths of existing foundations Why the need for P.I.T?
The ultimate strength of a deep foundation must
satisfy both structural and geotechnical limits for the foundation to perform as desired. Methods of installation of drilled shafts and driven piles gives rise to concern among engineers regarding the structural integrity of the shafts ,as the final foundation product lies buried beneath the ground which makes inspection difficult. Pile Integrity Testing
Helps in detecting potentially dangerous defects
such as : • Cracks • necking • soil inclusions and • Voids With only minimal pile preparation PIT maybe used for auger cast piles,drilled shafts,driven concrete piles concrete filled pipes and timber piles. Can economically test many or all piles on site. Profile of a defective pile