StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Lesson 2

THE
PILE DRIVING
SYSTEM

2-1

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-1

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Learning Outcomes
Identify Pile Installation Equipment and Tools
Identify various pile types
Use Pile Driving Equipment terminology
Interpret 455 specifications related to the pile
driving system

2-2

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-2

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Pile Driving System Components

Pile Types
Hammers & Cushions
Cranes & Leads
Templates
Soil
Special Installation Tools
Jets
Drills
Punches
Followers

2-3

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-3

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Pile Types
Concrete Piles
Pipe Piles
Steel H-Piles
Composite Piles
Hollow Core Cylinder Piles
Steel Sheet Piles
Timber Piles

2-4

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-4

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Common Florida Pile Types

Square Prestressed Concrete

Steel
- H-Pile Sections
- Pipe Sections

Timber

2-5

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-5

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

B. Piling
455-3 Description.
Furnish and install concrete, steel, or wood piling including
driving, jetting, preformed pile holes, cutting off, splicing,
dynamic load testing, and static load testing of piling.
455-4 Classification.
The Department classifies piling as follows:
(1) Treated timber piling.
(2) Prestressed concrete piling.
This course
(3) Steel piling.
(4) Test piling.
(5) Sheet piling.
(a) Concrete sheet piling.
(b) Steel sheet piling.
(6) Polymeric Piles (see Section 471 for requirements).
2-6

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-6

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-7 Prestressed Concrete Piling

455-7.1 Description: Provide prestressed concrete
piles that are manufactured, cured, and driven in
accordance with the requirements of the Contract
Documents. Provide piles full length without splices
when transported by barge or the pile length is less than
or equal to 120 feet. When piles are transported by
truck and the pile length exceeds 120 feet but is less
than the maximum length for a three point pick-up
according to Index 20600, and splicing is desired,
provide minimal splices. Include the cost of the splices
in the cost of the pile.

2-7

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-7

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-7 Prestressed Concrete Piling

455-7.3.1 Time of Driving Piles: Drive prestressed
concrete piles at any time after the concrete has been
cured in accordance with Section 450, and the concrete
compressive strength is equal to or greater than the
specified 28 day compressive strength.
450-16.3 Shipping: Do not ship precast prestressed
concrete products to the project site prior to the
completion of the 72 hour curing period and attainment
of the required 28-day strength.

2-8

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-8

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Prestressed Concrete Piling

Square PSC are displacement
piles & the most common
Typically where limestone or
dense stratum is <125
Used in corrosive environments
Used as friction piles, end
bearing piles, and combination
of both

2-9

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-9

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Prestressed Concrete Piling

Applications of Prestressed Concrete Piles

2-10

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-10

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Prestressed Concrete Piling

Voided piles are made to reduce pile weight

Voided piles have solid ends for protection during
driving
Driven as a group can sometimes densify soils in
the immediate area

2-11

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-11

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Prestressed Concrete Piling

2-12

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-12

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Cylinder Piles
Least common of the piles.
54 or 60 diameter
Manufactured for specific project
needs.
Used in corrosive environments.
Used when project is accessible
by large barges and cranes.
Very heavy, requires larger than
typical barges, cranes and
driving equipment.
2-13

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-13

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-8 Steel Piling

455-8.1 Description: Furnish, splice, drive, and

cut off structural steel shapes to form bearing
piles. Include in this work the installation of
bracing members of structural steel by bolting or
welding, construction of splices and the filling of
pipe piles with the specified materials.

2-14

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-14

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Steel Piling
SIZE

TYPE
STEEL
H Pile

Pipe open ended

Depends upon availability

from steel manufacturer.
Typical H Pile 14 x 74
(14 depth x 74 lbs./ft.
weight )
Typical pipe diameters:
10-48

Pipe closed ended

STRUCTURE
TYPE

DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION

H-piles and open end pipe piles are nondisplacement types, closed end pipe is
Bridges, building, another type of displacement pile. Not as
pipelines, towers, common as concrete piles in Florida. Usually
used where long pile over 125 are required
retaining earth
(rule-of-thumb) and where geotechnical
structures, &
information shows extremely variable
others
subsurface conditions or very long piles are
needed. The benefit to steel piles is the ease
of splice. Non displacement piles are also
sometimes used in areas where a large
number of piles are required in a small area
such as under a bascule bridge pier.

2-15

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-15

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Steel Piling- Pipe Piles

Closed Ended are displacement
piles; Open Ended not
Typically used where pile
lengths over 125 are needed
Higher lateral capacity than HPiles
Ease of splicing is big advantage
Non displacement piles are often
used where a large number of
piles are needed in a small area,
(i.e. under a Bascule bridge pier).
2-16

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-16

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Steel Piling- H Piles

Are non-displacement piles
Not as common as concrete
Typically used where pile lengths
over 125 are needed or
extremely variable subsurface
conditions exist
Ease of splicing is big advantage
Non displacement piles are often
used where a large number of
piles are needed in a small area,
(i.e. under a Bascule bridge pier).
2-17

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-17

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Steel Piling- H Piles

2-18

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-18

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Composite Piles

2-19

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-19

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Composite Piles
Used in very hard strata to obtain
penetration of the stinger and
provide tension and lateral
stability
Breakage can be a problem
The stinger will not help the rest
of the pile penetrate deeper
Concrete filled pipes increase
stiffness of pile
Shell or mandrel driven piles are
backfilled with concrete
2-20

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-20

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-6 Timber Piling

455-6.1
Description:
Drive
timber
piles
constructed of round timber of the kind and
dimensions specified in the plans at the locations
and to the elevations shown in the plans, or as
directed by the Engineer.

2-21

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-21

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-6 Timber Piling

Typically 8 tip and 12 butt
diameters
Common lengths 15 to 50
Typically made from
pressure treated southern
pine or Douglas fir woods
FDOT project use includes
temporary structures, docking
& fender systems, detour
bridges & Bailey bridges
2-22

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-22

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-9 Sheet Piling

Concrete or Steel
Utilized for retaining systems,
such as cofferdams & bulkheads
For retaining systems, steel sheet
piles are driven in the ground
using either impact or vibratory
hammers

2-23

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-23

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Learning Outcome
Square prestressed concrete piles are considered
non-displacement piles.
True

False

Timber piles are used for which of the following on

which type of projects?
A.Temporary structures
B. Docking & fender systems
C. Light commercial
D. All of the above
2-24

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-24

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Learning Outcome
Steel H piles are typically used when piles lengths are
expected to be over ___ feet.
A.50
B.75
C.100
D.125
Concrete piles must be cured ___ days prior to ____
and the concrete has achieved the 28-day compressive
strength.
A. 3
B. 7
C. 7
D. 3

driving
driving
shipping
shipping

2-25

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-25

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Pile Driving System Components

Pile Types
Hammers & Cushions
Cranes & Leads
Templates
Soil
Special Installation Tools
Jets
Drills
Punches
Followers

2-26

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-26

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Pile Driving System Components

Pile cushion
Pile
2-27

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-27

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Hammers

Air/Steam
Diesel
Open end
Closed end
Hydraulic
Vibratory

2-28

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-28

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.2 Pile Hammers

455-5.2 Pile Hammers: All equipment is subject to
satisfactory field performance. Use a variable energy
hammer to drive concrete piles. Hammers will be rated
based on the theoretical energy of the ram at impact.
Supply driving equipment which provides the required
resistance at a blow count ranging from 3 blows per
inch (36 blows per foot) to 10 blows per inch (120
blows per foot) at the end of initial drive, unless
approved otherwise by the Engineer after satisfactory
field trial.

2-29

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-29

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.2 Pile Hammers

455-5.2 Pile Hammers: (Continued)
. When the Engineer determines the stroke height
or bounce chamber pressure readings do not
adequately determine the energy of the hammer,
provide and maintain a device to measure the
velocity of the ram at impact. Determine the actual
hammer energy in the field so that it is consistent
with the hammer energy used for each bearing
capacity determination. When requested, furnish to
the Engineer all technical specifications and
operating instructions related to hammer equipment.
2-30

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-30

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Air/Steam Hammer (Single Acting)

Advantage
Same stroke each impact
Consistent operation rate
Low impact velocity
More efficient than diesel
Cleaner exhaust than diesel
Disadvantage
Additional support
equipment required
Heaviest hammer
Not as dependable as diesel
Thick hammer cushion
stack required
2-31

In this slide we see an air/steam single acting hammer. This hammer has the
following advantages:
Same stroke each impact
Consistent operation rate
Low impact velocity
More efficient than diesel
Cleaner exhaust than diesel
This hammer has the following disadvantages:
Additional support
equipment required
Heaviest hammer
Not as dependable as diesel
Thick hammer cushion
stack required
Single acting air/steam hammers are essentially gravity, or drop hammers, for whic h
the hoist line has been replaced by a pressuri zed medium, being either steam or air.
While originally developed for steam power, most of these hammers today operate
on compressed air. To lift the ram weight with motive pressure, a simple
onecylinder steam engine principle is used. Durin g the upstroke cycle , the ram is
raised by externally produced air or steam pressure acting against a piston housed in
the hammer cylinder.
The piston, in turn, i s connected to the r am by a r od. During the downstroke cycle,
the ram falls by gravity (less friction) to im pact the striker plate and hammer cushion.
Just before impact, the pressure valve is activated and pressure again enters the
cylinder. These hammers must be equipped with at least two strokes, one full strok e
and another of lesser height called short stroke.
Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-31

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Air/Steam Hammer (Single Acting)

Slide bar
cams

2-32

The stroke is controlled by the use of a device called slide bar shown in this
picture. The slide bar has cams that trip the valves at fix ed locations. The
maximum stroke of single acting air/ steam hammers generally ranges from 2
to 5 feet. Single acting air/steam hammers have the advantages of moderate
cost and relatively simple operation and maintenance. They are versatile for
many pile types, particularly large concrete and steel pipe piles.

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-32

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.2.1 Air/Steam
455-5.2.1 Air/steam: 455-5.2.1 Air/steam: Variable
energy air/steam hammers shall be capable of
providing at least two ram stroke lengths. The short
ram stroke length shall be approximately half of the
full stroke for hammers with strokes up to 4 feet and
no more than 2 feet for hammers with maximum
strokes lengths over 4 feet. Operate and maintain
air/steam hammers within the manufacturers
specified ranges. Use a plant and equipment for
steam and air hammers with sufficient capacity to
maintain, under working conditions, the hammer,
volume and pressure specified by the manufacturer.
2-33

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-33

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.2.1 Air/Steam
455-5.2.1 Air/steam: (Continued)
. Equip the plant and equipment with accurate
pressure gauges which are easily accessible to the
Engineer. The Engineer will not accept final bearing
on piles the Contractor drives with air/steam
hammers unless the Contractor operates the
hammers within 10% of the manufacturers rated
speed in blows per minute, unless otherwise
authorized by the Engineer.

2-34

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-34

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Open-End Diesel Hammer

Advantages
Very Simple; dependable
No additional support
equipment required
Lightest net weight per ft.-lb.
of energy
Readily available
Disadvantages
Delivered energy variable
Less efficient energy transfer
Produces higher pile stresses
Dirty exhaust spray
Difficult to spot operation
problems
2-35

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-35

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.2.2 Diesel
455-5.2.2 Diesel: Variable energy diesel hammers shall
have at least three fuel settings that will produce reduced
strokes. Operate and maintain diesel hammers within the
manufacturers specified ranges. Determine the rated
energy of diesel hammers using measured ram stroke
length multiplied by the weight of the ram for open end
hammers and by methods recommended by the
manufacturer for closed end hammers.

2-36

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-36

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.2.2 Diesel

455-5.2.2 Diesel: (Continued)

.. Provide the Engineer with a chart from the
hammer manufacturer equating stroke and
blows per minute for the open-end diesel
hammer to be used. Also provide and maintain
in working order for the Engineers use an
approved device to automatically determine
and display ram stroke for open-end diesel
hammers.

2-37

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-37

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Closed-End Diesel (Double Acting)

Advantages
No additional support
equipment required
Drives piles faster
Lightweight

Disadvantages
Lowest efficiency
Most difficult to spot
operation problems

2-38

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-38

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Closed-End Diesel (Double Acting)

455-5.2.2 Diesel: (Continued)

.. Equip closed-end (double acting) diesel hammers
with a bounce chamber pressure gauge, in good
working order, mounted near ground level so the
Engineer can easily read. Also, provide the Engineer
with a chart, calibrated to actual hammer performance
within 30 days prior to initial use, equating bounce
chamber pressure to either equivalent energy or stroke
for the closed-end diesel hammer to be used.

2-39

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-39

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Bounce Chamber Pressure Gauge

LINK-BELT SPEEDER

BOUNCE CHAMBER PRESSURE - p.s.i.g.

25

MODEL 520 DIESEL PILE HAMMER

BOUNCE CHAMBER PRESSURE vs. EQUIVALENT WH ENERGY
SEA LEVEL TO 2000 ELEVATION

23

21

19

17

t
Up

0f
o5

t
Up

15

t. H

e
os

0f
o8

t. H

to
Up

e
os

110

ft. H

ose

13

11
16,000

18,000

20,000

22,000

24,000

26,000

2-40

EQUIVALENT WH ENERGY - FT. - LBS

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-40

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Hydraulic Hammer
Advantage
Controllable variable stroke
High efficiency blow
Low impact velocity
Light weight
Clean running, quiet
Disadvantage
Need hydraulic power
pack and hoses
Need dedicated person for
hydraulic controls
Repairability / high tech
Expertise in hammer
operation needed
2-41

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-41

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.2.3 Hydraulic
455-5.2.3 Hydraulic: Variable energy hydraulic hammers
shall have at least three hydraulic control settings that
provide for predictable energy or equivalent ram stroke.
The shortest stroke shall be a maximum of 2 feet for the
driving of concrete piles. The remaining strokes shall
include full stroke and approximately halfway between
minimum and maximum stroke.
Supply hammer instrumentation with electronic read out,
and control unit that allows the operator to read and adjust
the hammer energy or equivalent ram stroke. When
pressure measuring equipment is required to determine
hammer energy, calibrate the pressure measuring
equipment before use.

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-42

2-42

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Vibratory Hammer

Generally used for driving and

extracting sheet piles and nondisplacement H-piles and pipe
piles.
Not impact hammers.

2-43

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-43

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.2.4 Vibratory
455-5.2.4 Vibratory: Vibratory hammers of sufficient
capacity (force and amplitude) may be used to drive
steel sheet piles and, with approval of the Engineer, to
drive steel bearing piles a sufficient distance to get the
impact hammer on the pile (to stick the pile). The
Engineer will determine the allowable depth of driving
using the vibratory hammer based on site conditions.
However, in all cases, use a power impact hammer for
the last 15 feet or more of the final driving of steel
bearing piles for bearing determinations after all piles in
the bent/pier have been driven with a vibratory hammer.
Do not use vibrating hammers to install concrete piles,
or to install support or reaction piles for a load test.
2-44

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-44

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Learning Outcomes
Which of the following hammers is NOT to be used to drive
concrete piles?
A. Vibratory
B. Diesel
C. Hydraulic
D. Air/Steam
A bounce chamber pressure gauge is to be provided for which
of the following hammers?
A. Air/Steam
B. Open end diesel
C. Closed end diesel
D. Hydraulic
2-45

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-45

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Learning Outcomes
A scale or jumpstick is to be provided for which hammer?
A. Closed end diesel
B. Open end diesel
C. Hydraulic
D. Not required on any hammer
A diesel hammer is to have a least ___ fuel settings that
produce reduced strokes.
A. 2
B. 3
C. 4
D. None required
2-46

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-46

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Hammer and Helmet Assembly

Hammer
Ram & Anvil
Striker Plate
Hammer Cushion
(Cap Block)
Helmet

2-47

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-47

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Hammer Cushions
Used on all impact
hammers except gravity
(drop) hammers.
Must be made of
durable
manufactured
(man-made) materials.
Wood, & asbestos not
allowed.
Striker plate must be
used
2-48

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-48

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Cushions Not Allowed

Wood
Asbestos
2-49

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-49

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.3 Cushions & Pile Helmet

455-5.3.1 Capblock: Provide a capblock (also

called the hammer cushion) as recommended by
the hammer manufacturer. Use commercially
manufactured capblocks constructed of durable
manmade materials with uniform known
properties. Do not use wood chips, wood blocks,
rope, or other material which permit excessive
loss of hammer energy. Do not use capblocks
constructed of asbestos materials. Obtain the
Engineers approval for all proposed capblock
materials and proposed thickness for use.
2-50

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-50

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.3 Cushions & Pile Helmet

455-5.3.1 Capblock: (Continued)

. Maintain capblocks in good condition, and
change them when charred, melted, or
otherwise
significantly
deteriorated.
The
Engineer will inspect the capblock before driving
begins and weekly or at appropriate intervals
determined by the Engineer based on field trial.
Replace or repair any hammer cushion which
loses more than 25% of its original thickness, in
accordance with the manufacturers instructions,
before permitting further driving.
2-51

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-51

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Pile Cushion

Hammer
Ram & Anvil
Striker Plate
Hammer Cushion
(Cap Block)
Helmet
Pile Cushion
Pile
2-52

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-52

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Pile Cushion
Used with concrete piles.
Made of pine plywood or
oak lumber
Replaced if compressed
to more than one-half
original thickness.
Replaced if charred,starts
to burn, splintered, or per
the Engineers instruction.
2-53

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-53

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.3 Cushions & Pile Helmet

455-5.3.2 Pile Cushion: Provide a pile
cushion that is adequate to protect the pile
from being overstressed in compression and
tension during driving. Use a pile cushion
sized so that it will fully fill the lateral
dimensions of the pile helmet minus one inch
but does not cover any void or hole
extending through the top of the
pile. Determine the thickness based upon
the hammer-pile-soil system. For driving
concrete piles, use a pile cushion made from
pine plywood or oak lumber. Alternative
materials may be used with the approval of
the Engineer. Obtain the Engineers approval
for all pile cushions.

2-54

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-54

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.3 Cushions & Pile Helmet

2-55

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-55

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.3 Cushions & Pile Helmet

455-5.3.2 Pile Cushion: (Continued)
. Do not use materials previously soaked,
saturated or treated with oil. Maintain pile
cushions in good condition and change when
charred, splintered, excessively compressed, or
otherwise deteriorated to the point it will not
protect the pile against overstressing in tension
and/or compression. Protect cushions from the
weather, and keep them dry. Do not soak the
cushions in any liquid. Replace the pile cushion
if, during the driving of any pile, the cushion is
either compressed more than one-half the
original thickness or begins to burn.
2-56

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-56

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.3 Cushions & Pile Helmet

455-5.3.2 Pile Cushion: (Continued)
. Provide a new cushion for each pile unless
approved otherwise by the Engineer after
satisfactory field trial.
Reuse pile cushions in good condition to
perform all set-checks and redrives. Use the
same cushion to perform the set-check or redrive
as was used during the initial driving, unless this
cushion is unacceptable due to deterioration, in
which case use a similar cushion.

2-57

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-57

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.3 Cushions & Pile Helmet

455-5.3.3 Pile Helmet: Provide a pile helmet
suitable for the type and size of piling being
driven. Use a pile helmet deep enough to
adequately contain the required thickness of
pile cushion and to assist in maintaining pilehammer alignment. Use a pile helmet that fits
loosely over the pile head and is at least 1
inch larger than the pile dimensions. Use a
pile helmet designed so that it will not restrain
the pile from rotating.

2-58

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-58

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Pile Driving System Components

Pile Types
Hammers & Cushions
Cranes & Leads
Templates
Soil
Special Installation Tools
Jets
Drills
Punches
Followers

2-59

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-59

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Cranes
JIB GANTRY
JIB
JIB LINES

BOOM LINE
(PENNENTS)
MAIN LINE
BOOM STOPPERS

BOOM

WHIP LINE

YOKE
SPLICE

TOPPING LIFT

HEADACHE
BALL

BOOMGANTRY
CAB
COUNTER
WEIGHT

TURN TABLE

MAIN LOAD
BLOCK

OUTRIGGER
PADS
RADIUS

2-60

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-60

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Leads

Leads

2-61

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-61

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Swinging-Lead

CABLE

HAMMER

BOOM

MUST HAVE
TEMPLATE

LEAD
CRANE

PILE
2-62

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-62

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Semi-fixed Lead
FIXED AT TOP
HAMMER
BOOM

MUST HAVE
TEMPLATE

LEAD
PILE

CRANE

2-63

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-63

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Fixed Lead

FIXED AT TOP

HAMMER
BOOM

BRACE

TEMPLATE
NOT REQUIRED

LEAD
CRANE

PILE
2-64

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-64

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Fixed Lead

2-65

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-65

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.4 Leads

455-5.4 Leads: Provide pile leads constructed

in a manner which offers freedom of movement
to the hammer and that have the strength and
rigidity to hold the hammer and pile in the
correct position and alignment during driving.
When using followers, use leads that are long
enough and suitable to maintain position and
alignment of the hammer, follower, and pile
throughout driving.

2-66

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-66

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Pile Driving System Components

Pile Types
Hammers & Cushions
Cranes & Leads
Templates
Soil
Special Installation Tools
Jets
Drills
Punches
Followers

2-67

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-67

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Templates

Required for all pile

driving systems
except where fixed
leads are utilized.

Leads
(swinging)

Template

2-68

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-68

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Templates

2-69

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-69

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Templates
CL Plan
As-built CL

15

Pile in
incorrect
position

CL Plan
Template Elev. is 5 ft.
above Pile Cut-off Elev.

Pile Cut-off Elev.

Pile in correct
position

2-70

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-70

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.6 Templates

455-5.6 Templates: Provide a fixed template,

adequate to maintain the pile in proper position
and alignment during driving with swinging
leads or with semi-fixed leads. Where practical,
place the template so that the pile can be driven
to cut-off elevation before removing the
template. Ensure that templates do not restrict
the vertical movement of the pile.

2-71

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-71

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.6 Templates
455-5.6 Templates: (Continued)
Supply a stable reference close to the
pile, which is satisfactory in the opinion of the
Engineer, for determination of the pile
penetration. At the time of driving piles, furnish
the Engineer with elevations of the original
ground and template at each pile or pile group
location. Note the highest and lowest elevation
at each required location and the ground
elevation at all piles.

2-72

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-72

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Acceptable Template?

2-73

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-73

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Pile Driving System Components

Pile Types
Hammers & Cushions
Cranes & Leads
Templates
Soil
Special Installation Tools
Jets
Drills
Punches
Followers

2-74

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-74

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

Automatic Hammer
Increased safety
Most Efficient SPT
Hammer
Most Consistent blow

2-75

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-75

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

140 lb.
Hammer dropping
30

Anvil

Drill Rod
Split-Barrel
Drive sampler

Seating Spoon6
Second Increment 6
Third Increment 6

SPT
Resistance
(N-value) is
total number of
blows to drive
sampler the 2nd
and 3rd 6 inch
increments

2-76

Standard penetration Test- SPT.

This is a pictorial illustration of the SPT Test. The Standard Penetration Test is a field test
performed during the advancement of a soil boring to obtain an approximate measure of
the dynamic soil resistance, as well as a disturbed drive sample (split barrel type). The
test is the most common In situ test worldwide, and you will see this information
presented in your Report of Core Boring plans. In lesson 3 we will show you a typical
Report of Core Boring plan.
The SPT is conducted at the bottom of a borehole that has been prepared using either
flight augers or rotary wash drilling meth ods. At regular depth intervals, the drilling
process is interrupted to perform the SPT. G enerally, tests are taken every 2.5 feet at
depths shallower than 10 feet and at intervals of 5.0 feet thereafter. However, for FDOT
bridge projects is required to test every 2.5 to 3.0 ft maximum interval.
The SPT involves the driving of a ho
llow thick-walled tube into the ground and
measuring the number of blows to advance the split-barrel sampler a vertical distance of
1 foot. A drop weight system is used
for the pounding where a 140-lb hammer
repeatedly falls from 30 inches to achieve
three successive increments of 6-inches
each. The first increment is recorded as a
seating, while the number of blows to
advance the second and third increments ar e summed to give the N-value ("blow
count") or SPT-resistance (reported in blows per foot). If the sampler cannot be driven
18 inches, the number of blows per each 6 inch increment and per each partial
increment is recorded on the boring log t ogether with the penetration, reported to the
nearest inch. For partial increments, the depth of penetration is recorded in addition to
the number of blows. Occasionally, a l onger split-spoon is used and a fourth 6 inch
increment is driven. This is to merely obt ain additional soil sample and is not considered
in the N value.
Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-76

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Pile Driving System Components

Pile Types
Hammers & Cushions
Cranes & Leads
Templates
Soil
Special Installation Tools
Jets
Drills
Punches
Followers

2-77

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-77

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Jetting

2-78

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-78

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.7 Water Jets

455-5.7 Water Jets: Use jet pumps, supply
lines, and jet pipes that provide adequate
pressure and volume of water to freely erode
the soil. Do not perform jetting without prior
approval by the Engineer or unless allowed by
the plans.
Do not perform jetting in the embankment or
for end bents. Where conditions warrant, with
approval by the Engineer, perform jetting on
the holes first, place the pile therein, then drive
the pile to secure the last few feet of
penetration. Only use one jet for prejetting or
jetting through piles constructed with a center
jet-hole.

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-79

2-79

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.7 Water Jets

455-5.7 Water Jets: (Continued)
. Use two jets when using external jets.
When jetting and driving, position the jets
slightly behind the advancing pile tip
(approximately 3 feet or as approved by the
Engineer). When using water jets in the
driving, determine the pile bearing only from
the results of driving after withdrawing the jets,
except where using jets to continuously
eliminate soil resistance through the scour
zone, ensure that they remain in place as
directed by the Engineer and operating during
pile bearing determination.
2-80

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-80

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

455-5.7 Water Jets

455-5.7 Water Jets: (Continued)
. Where practical, perform jetting on all piles
in a pile group before driving begins. When
large pile groups or pile spacing and batter
make this impractical, or when the plans
specify a jet-drive sequence, set check a
sufficient number of previously driven piles in
a pile group to confirm their capacity after
completing all jetting.

2-81

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-81

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Punches

Punch

Combination Jet/Punch
2-82

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-82

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Drilling/Augering

2-83

Soil augers or drills is one of the tools frequently used to install piles. Predrilling is used to
perform the following:
-Install piles by preforming holes or predrilling through soils with obstructions, such as old
timbers, boulders, and riprap.
-Install piles through soil embankments.
-Drill a starter hole.
-To assist in the advancement of the piles through very dense materials that prevent the
piles to reach a minimum penetration.
-To reduce pile heave when displacement piles are driven at close spacings.
-To predrill holes in order to minimize vibrations
--Where jetting or punching are not allowed by the Contract documents.

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-83

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Drilling/Augering

2-84

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-84

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Followers

Generally used for water

projects.

Only when authorized in

writing by Engineer or in
contract documents.

2-85

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-85

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Followers
455-5.5 Followers: Use followers only for underwater
driving. Obtain the Engineers approval for the type of
follower, when used, and the method of connection to
the leads and pile. Use followers constructed of steel
with an adequate cross-section to withstand driving
stresses. When driving concrete piles, ensure that the
cross-sectional area of the follower is at least 18% of the
cross-sectional area of the pile. When driving steel piles,
ensure that the cross-sectional area of the follower is
greater than or equal to the cross-sectional area of the
pile. Provide a pile helmet at the lower end of the
follower sized according to the requirements of 4555.3.3.

2-86

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-86

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Followers
455-5.5 Followers: (continued) .Use followers
constructed that maintain the alignment of the pile,
follower, and hammer and still allow the pile to be driven
within the allowable tolerances. Use followers designed
with guides adapted to the leads that maintain the
hammer, follower, and the piles in alignment.
Use information from driving full length piles described in
455-5.1.2 compared to driving piles with the follower
and/or dynamic load tests described in 455-5.13 to
evaluate the adequacy of the follower and to establish
the blow count criteria when using the follower.

2-87

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-87

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Learning Outcome
Which of the following leads does not require the use of a
template?
A. Swinging
B. Semi-fixed
C. Fixed
D. None require the use of a template





2-88

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-88

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Learning Outcome
When jetting & driving, the jets should be positioned approx.
___ ft. behind the pile tip.
A. 2
B. 3
C. 4
D. 5
Jetting in the embankment is permitted when ____.
A. Not permitted
B. Anytime
C. Embankment heights are less than 10 feet
D. Embankment heights less than 20 feet
2-89

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-89

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

Learning Outcomes

Identify Pile Installation Equipment and Tools

Identify various pile types
Use Pile Driving Equipment terminology
Interpret 455 specifications related to the pile
driving system

2-90

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-90

StudentManual

Lesson2ThePileDrivingSystem

End of Lesson 1

ANY
QUESTIONS ?

1-91

Version 1.0 -1/2015

Page 2-91