Description:
The conventional torque correlation method used in the field to estimate and validate the ultimate bearing resistance of screw piles is relatively unreliable because the correlation parameter depends on various factors like pile size, soil type, and water table depth. Due to uncertainties regarding the compressive capacity of screw piles in soft saturated soil, performing a static load test is advantageous to confirm serviceability and ultimate loads during loading/unloading cycles. According to AS 2159, pile load testing is required for piles with a basic geotechnical reduction factor (φgb) higher than 0.4 and an average risk factor rating (ARR) greater than 2.5.