Pile Integrity
Testing
Sonic Echo / Impulse Response PIT for bridges, piers, jetties, towers and building foundations — depth, geometry and structural condition from the surface.
Sonic Echo &
Impulse Response
Pile Integrity Testing (PIT) is conducted in accordance with ASTM D5882-16 and AS 2159-2009, covering testing procedures, data acquisition, processing and reporting. It is applicable to the investigation of deep foundation structures including bridges, piers, jetties, towers and buildings.
A compression or tension wave is introduced at the pile head by a hand-held hammer. The wave travels through the shaft and is reflected when it encounters a change in acoustic impedance — caused by a change in cross-section, material quality, or the pile toe. A sensor at the pile head records the return signal.
This method effectively and accurately determines pile depth, geometry and structural condition — making it a reliable tool for both assessing unknown existing foundations and for quality verification of ongoing piling works.
What PIT
Resolves
From a single hammer impact at the pile head, the reflected waveform yields a complete structural picture of the shaft — geometry, depth and any discontinuities along its length.
Five-Grade
Integrity Rating System
The reliability of defect identification and depth estimation depends on the accuracy of wave velocity determination and the overall quality of the pile. All piles are classified using a standardised five-grade system, ensuring defensible and consistent reporting across a foundation program.
Each classification carries defined reporting language, enabling clear communication between testing, engineering and project management teams — and straightforward integration with remediation planning.
Classification is conducted in accordance with ASTM D5882-16 and AS 2159-2009 — covering testing procedures, data acquisition, signal processing, interpretation and formal reporting.
New Works &
Existing Foundations
PIT delivers value at two distinct project phases — quality assurance during piling works, and condition assessment for aging or undocumented foundations.
Clear, Standardised
Reporting
Each pile tested is reported with its waveform trace, interpreted classification, and depth estimates — in a format suitable for direct submission to structural engineers and regulatory bodies.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Pile register | ID, location, design dimensions and test date for every pile tested |
| Velocity traces | Time-domain waveform for each pile — impact, reflections and toe response annotated |
| Frequency plots | Mobility spectrum where Impulse Response analysis is applied |
| Depth estimates | Calculated depth to anomaly and pile toe, based on calibrated wave velocity |
| Classification table | AA / BB / ABx / PFx / PDx rating per pile with supporting commentary |
| Plan layout | Classification colour-mapped onto foundation plan for rapid visual review |
| Recommendations | Engineering action items for each PFx and PDx classified pile |