A pile is a slender element cast in the ground or driven into it. Since pile construction as well as the final product are mostly invisible, engineers have often questioned their integrity, i.e. their compliance with project drawings and specifications. In fact, experience has shown that in piles, of all kinds flaws may occur. The purpose of integrity testing is to discover such flaws before they can cause any damage.

Pile Integrity Testing is a low-strain, non-destructive testing method that assesses the condition of cast-in- place piles, drilled shafts or driven concrete/timber piles.

A client may need to determine integrity and/or toe depth of piles to ensure they meet specified load capacities. PIT is especially useful on standalone piles, i.e. those not connected to a footing and before construction of the superstructure (visible portion of the building). Piles with connecting elements can also be tested, in certain conditions.

Limitations: Standard – ASTM D5882 − 07 Standard Test Method for Low Strain Impact Integrity Testing of Deep Foundations