Prediction of Pile Capacity by the Wave Equation

The wave equation method of pile driving analysis is used to predict load capacities. A description of the wave equation is given, followed by an examination of the nature of the resistance to penetration into the soil. The various parameters that enter into the equation for resistance to penetration are reviewed, and an attempt is made to establish limiting values for the parameters. Finally, results of the attempt to correlate the driving record with the static load tests for 24 cases using the wave equation are presented. It was found that the use of the wave equation, in conjunction with static methods, shows promise as a means of predicting pile load capacities.