Dynamic load tests on large diameter open-ended piles in sand performed in the centrifuge

Offshore infrastructure is commonly founded on piles. In accordance with design guidelines, piling contracts usually include load tests to verify the bearing capacity following pile installation. Offshore, these are generally performed as dynamic load tests (DLT) rather than static load tests often used onshore, for
economical and practical considerations. Substantial experience exists in evaluating DLT on closed-ended piles. However, DLT on open-ended profiles have not been investigated sufficiently to date, particularly for piles with
low length to diameter ratio. In order to derive realistic static axial pile bearing capacities, the processes during DLT taking place in the open-ended pile and soil need to be understood. Centrifuge tests provide the possibility of model tests with defined and reproducible conditions under consideration of realistic stress states. This paper discusses centrifuge test results of static and dynamic load tests on monopiles investigating the effects of pile installation method. The findings of this study provide a basis towards improved understanding of DLT on
open-ended piles.