Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 9.3
Test arrangement using kentledge. (Illustration courtesy of CIRIA, London.)
spreader plate is normally welded to the centre of the beam to disperse the point load
from the jack.
The whole system should be firmly wedged, cleated or bolted together to prevent
slipping of any member. Frequently the piling contractor or specialist testing concern
will have a ready-made set of equipment which is designed to suit their system of
working. During the test it is important that none of the timber work or decking is
unloaded completely, to avoid it becoming unstable. It is therefore usual to provide
extra kentledge, and 20% above the ultimate load of the pile would be considered a
satisfactory margin. Not so much overcapacity need be provided if the stack is built
