Dynamic monitoring of a pile during driving can be accomplished using a Pile Driving Analyzer (PDA) testing system. PDA testing measures the strain and acceleration in the pile as a result of the impact of the hammer. PDA testing of a pile can help to determine the stresses in the pile during driving and monitor the pile for damage or integrity. The capacity of the pile and time dependent changes in capacity (if a restrike is undertaken) can be obtained when the PDA testing data is used with the Case Pile Wave Analysis Program (CAPWAP).

For critical structures, projects with a large number of piling, or in difficult soil conditions PDA testing should be considered for use. Consult with the Geotechnical Branch to determine if a specific project might be considered as a candidate for PDA testing.