Construction of rock socketed piles in Sydney Sandstone to meet performance requirements

Construction aspects are critical to ensure that the design intent / requirements are achieved through good construction methodology and quality control. This translates into ensuring the pile shaft/sidewalls are to a large extent free of crushed or smeared rock. Similarly, the base should be clear of any debris also. Presence of soft material / debris on the base of the pile will alter the load deflection characteristics.

In order to meet the performance requirements through construction a strategy was formulated. The strategy included an advance programme of proof core drilling, use of appropriate drilling tools, reference to the available site investigation information and full-time geotechnical supervision.