Parallel Seismic Method

Based in Pulau Pinang, the next project we are looking back on involved the use of Parallel Seismic method to detect an unknown pile length in order to assist with construction plans.

 

Parallel Seismic is a pile testing method which can be applied to determine unknown foundation depths of bridges, buildings, piles and retaining walls made of concrete, wood, steel and/or masonry. It can detect underground anomalies or defects, and also provide data about soil properties below the foundation for geotechnical testing.

 

The method involves striking part of a structure that is connected to the pile or foundation (or the foundation itself, if accessible) and receiving compressional/shear waves travelling down the foundation by a hydrophone or a geophone receiver. For this study, #ABEM Terraloc Pro2 seismograph was employed to record and store the seismic signals.

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Parallel Seismic method is extremely versatile and can be applied to almost any foundation depth. It does not require direct physical access to the foundation being tested, thus avoiding the need for drilling or excavation which could impact unseen underground utilities. This saves time and expense while still delivering more accurate results of estimated pile length compared to other non-destructive methods.