Distributed sensing in foundation piles during mechanical load testing

The aim of the project was to investigate the behavior of foundation piles during their mechanical load testing. In order to achieve this, three monolithic sensors – EpsilonRebars – were attached to the reinforcing cage of the piles in question. This innovative DFOS-based system allowed for precise and high-quality analysis of the performance of structural components deeply embedded in the soil, what was previously unattainable with conventional techniques.

DFOS Sensors Installed: EpsilonRebar

Project challenges

How to apply non-invasive diagnostics in demanding historic structures?
How to get precise measurement data to detect local damage and imperfection?
How to measure detailed strain profiles over the entire height of the brick masonry wall?

Benefits of using the DFOS monitoring system

Monitoring pile behaviour in relation to theoretical predictions
Analysis of the interaction between the pile and surrounding ground
Distribution of strain changes along the entire length of the pile
Possibility of calculating the pile’s shortening and horizontal displacements

Results of using the DFOS monitoring system

The graph shows the horizontal displacements of the pile during successive steps of the load test. The displacement was calculated based on the strain changes measured by the EpsilonRebars in known configuration. Thanks to the DFOS approach, measurements were taken with an extraordinary level of spatial resolution, amounting to less than 1 cm.

Technical specifications

9 230 measurement points
48 m of sensing path
3 x EpsilonRebar
short-term (load tests)

Example results

Recomendations (optional)

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John Doe

Project partner

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Case study
EpsilonRebar Datasheet

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