Analytical modelling of hammer impact for pile driving

Abstract Estimation of the drivability of piles requires modelling of the hammer impact in order to provide the input force wave at the pile head. Historically, this has been achieved through a numerical model of the hammer components (ram, cushion and anvil), which is then linked with that of the pile in order to effect the drivability analysis. This paper presents an analytical model of hammer impact, based on lumped ram and anvil masses separated by a cushion with internal damping, and connected to the pile which is modelled as a dashpot. Force–time responses derived from the analytical model are compared with actual field data, and also with results from commercially available numerical models of hammer impact. The analytical model is then used to explore the characteristics of hammer impact, with particular attention to combinations of parameters that lead to hammer bounce and, hence, significant loss of energy transferred to the pile.