Load Testing Equipment for Deep Foundation Applications

Types of Load Testing We Support

Different deep foundation applications call for different load testing methodologies, and the right test depends on the loading conditions the foundation will see in service.

• Compression tests: Apply compressive forces to assess load-bearing capacity along the axis of the pile. The most common test for piles carrying primarily vertical structural loads.
• Tension tests: Evaluate a pile’s resistance to pulling forces. Required for foundations that handle uplift loads from wind, seismic events, or anchor systems.
• Lateral load tests: Determine how piles respond to horizontal forces, which matters for foundations supporting structures exposed to wind, seismic, or earth pressure loads.
• Tieback load testing: Verify the load-bearing capacity of soil anchors and tieback systems used to stabilize retaining structures, slopes, and excavation walls.
• Biaxial bending tests: Examine pile behavior under combined bending and compression forces in two perpendicular directions, simulating real-world loading conditions on many structural systems.
• Uniaxial compressive load tests: Focus specifically on a pile’s resistance to compressive forces along a single axis, delivering targeted capacity data for axially loaded foundations.

Understanding the differences between these tests helps engineers specify the right testing program for each project and helps contractors plan equipment and crew requirements accordingly.

Why Load Testing Matters on Deep Foundation Projects

Skipping or cutting corners on load testing creates risk that compounds across the service life of the structure. Load testing addresses several distinct project needs:

• Verify pile performance: Confirm geotechnical capacity, structural capacity, and deflection or serviceability characteristics through documented testing rather than theoretical calculation alone
• Meet building code and project requirements: Most jurisdictions and many private specifications require documented load testing on deep foundation systems before construction can proceed
• Meet serviceability requirements: Confirm that piles deflect within acceptable limits under design loads, preventing settlement issues after construction
• Justify loads or stresses exceeding code: Documented testing can support engineering analysis when project requirements push past standard code provisions
• Verify construction processes: Confirm that installed piles match design assumptions, catching issues early before they propagate into completed construction

Value engineering opportunities sometimes emerge from load testing results, particularly when in-situ conditions allow piles to be tested to loads above their design capacity. Those results can sometimes support reductions in pile count or length, with associated cost savings on the overall foundation package.

Whatever Your Structural Build Requires – We Have The Load Testing Equipment Needed.

ASTM Standards We Follow

Load testing on commercial deep foundation projects is governed by ASTM International method documents that establish standardized procedures, apparatus requirements, and reporting expectations. Our testing programs follow these standards based on each project’s local municipal requirements and project specifications:

• ASTM D-1143 for compression load tests on deep foundations
• ASTM D-3689 for tension load tests on deep foundations
• ASTM D-3966 for lateral load tests on deep foundations

What Information We Gather From ATSM Method Documents:

• Test Foundation Preparation
• Apparatus for Applying and Measuring Loads
• Apparatus for Measuring Movement
• Procedures
• Recording Test Readings
• Safety Requirements
• Report

These are also the standards the construction inspector will review before signing off on the project’s completion.

Avoid Expensive Missteps With Proper Load Testing Practices

Our turnkey testing services provide the ideal combination of expert engineering, convenient onsite or nearby Intech Anchoring Systems facility testing, and results that meet all regulatory obligations. We also give our customers the opportunity to troubleshoot rigging practices before they actually begin their project, ensuring optimum safety for them and their personnel.

And if you’re buying load testing equipment from us, our engineers will make sure that your field personnel are familiar with the equipment before they start using it.

At Intech Anchoring Systems, we use the latest technologies to provide you with reliable and secure load testing solutions – whether you’re renting or buying load testing equipment from us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Load Testing Equipment

What load capacity do your test beams handle?

Our load test beams are rated to 250 kips ultimate load, which covers the majority of deep foundation testing requirements on commercial and infrastructure projects. For projects requiring testing above that capacity, contact our team to discuss specialized arrangements.

Can I rent equipment without using your full-service testing?

Yes. Equipment-only rental is available for contractors with the in-house capability to run testing programs themselves. We supply calibrated rams, pumps, lines, gauges, and the test beams, and the contractor handles the rest of the program.

Do you support tieback load testing for earth retention projects?

Yes. Tieback load testing is one of the core testing methodologies our equipment supports. The same beams, rams, and gauges used for vertical pile testing can be configured for tieback testing on retaining wall, slope stability, and excavation support projects.

Are PE-certified load test results available?

Yes. When project requirements call for PE certification, our team can have load test results certified by a Professional Engineer to satisfy compliance and regulatory documentation needs.

What ASTM standards do your testing programs follow?

Our testing programs follow ASTM D-1143 for compression tests, ASTM D-3689 for tension tests, and ASTM D-3966 for lateral load tests. We work to the standards each project’s specifications and local municipal requirements call for.

Why Contractors Choose Intech Anchoring Systems for Load Testing

Intech Anchoring Systems has been a trusted source of geotechnical solutions since 1998, with experience that runs across foundation systems, earth retention, structural stabilization, and the load testing programs that verify performance on every type of project. Our load testing equipment is maintained to deliver reliable results, our engineering team supports specification and interpretation, and our service options scale to match the way each contractor wants to work.

Beyond equipment, Intech offers the extensive inventory and reduced lead times that keep projects on schedule, rental and purchase flexibility for short-term or long-term needs, value-added engineering and training support, and the kind of straightforward pricing that helps contractors deliver accurate project bids. From single-test rentals to long-term equipment partnerships, our team brings the depth of experience and product reliability your work requires.

Talk to Us About Your Load Testing Project

Load testing isn’t optional on most deep foundation projects, but it shouldn’t be a source of project risk either. With the right equipment, the right testing methodology, and the right level of engineering support, load testing becomes a step that confirms what good design and good installation have already accomplished. Intech Anchoring Systems delivers the equipment, expertise, and service flexibility to help contractors and engineers meet load testing requirements with confidence.

Call Intech Anchoring Systems at (888) 458-8904 today to discuss load testing equipment rental, sale, or full-service testing for your next project.