ASD Particular Specification

Particular Specification for Jacked Steel H-piles
1.0 Definition
A jacked steel H pile is installed by jacking a steel H-pile section into the ground
against a machine of sufficient dead weight to achieve the penetration and resistance
required for the designed bearing capacity.
2.0 General
This Particular Specification shall be read in conjunction with Section 5 of the General
Specification for Building 2017 Edition (GS).
The notations and terms used in this Particular Specification (PS) are defined as follows:
Pmax - maximum jacking force applied to the pile during installation.
WL - allowable load capacity.
Pre-Loading Test - the test carried out at the 2nd stage of the Pre-Loading process as
required in Clause 6.10.
3.0 Design Submissions
In addition to the submissions stated in Clause 5.02 of the GS, submit 2 copies of each
of the following with the design submissions:-
(a) Detailed information on the jacking machine and associated equipment, which shall
include the maximum capacity of the jacking machine, details of the load
controlling device and the pile clamping system, as stated in Clause 6.4.
(b) Method statement for the installation of jacked steel H-piles as stated in Clause 6.3.
(c) Settlement analysis for pile groups consisting of more than 10 piles, as required in
Clause 5.3.
No piling works shall commence on site unless the submissions are approved by the SO.
4.0 Materials and Workmanship of H-pile Section
Clause 5.18 (i), (ii), (iii), (iv), (vi), (vii), (viii), (ix) of the GS shall apply to Jacked Steel
H-piles.
Structural Engineering Branch, Arch SD Page 1 of 7 File code: SEI0708(Rev1).doc

SE Instruction No. 07/08 KTL/MKW/KWL
1st Issue Date: December 2008 Revision No : 1
Revision Date: November 2017
The maximum length of spliced pile sections in horizontal or inclined positions shall
not exceed 24 m, unless an acceptable method of lifting the pile has been agreed by the
SO.
5.0 Design Requirements
5.1 Loading Capacity
The allowable load capacity of a pile shall not exceed 2950 kN.
5.2 Design Assumptions
Unless specified otherwise by the SO, no corrosion protection to the jacked

steel H-piles is required. However, when the jacked steel H-pile is subjected to
combined axial and bending under permanent load, the combined extreme
fibre stress at working load shall not exceed 0.33 fy, where fy is the minimum
yield stress of the H-pile material. When the calculation of stress is based on
loadings including transient load or wind load, the permissible combined stress
can be up to 0.42 fy.
The pile group reduction of 0.85 stipulated in Clause 5.07 of the GS shall apply.
The use of tension piles and raking piles is not permitted.
5.3 Settlement Analysis
For pile groups consisting of more than 10 piles, a proper settlement analysis
of foundations under the total working loads including negative skin friction
(NSF) shall be carried out by a recognized foundation engineering method.
The assumed parameters are to be verified at the contractor’s own expense.
After installation of all piles, a further settlement analysis, based on actual
conditions of piles installed, shall be carried out to verify the compliance of
settlement requirements.
6.0 Installation of Jacked Piles
6.1 Maximum Jacking Force
The maximum jacking force Pmax shall not exceed 90% of total weight of the
pile-jacking machine. The allowable axial stress during pile jacking shall not
exceed 80% of the yield stress of the H-pile material. A control system should
be in place to control the jacking force within ±2% accuracy. .

6.2 Calibration of Hydraulic Jack
6.2.1 The hydraulic jack shall be calibrated by an independent firm accredited

by HOKLAS by using a calibrated load cell as agreed by the SO at the
start of the Contract. A designated pile with sufficient load carrying
capacity can be used to provide the reaction for calibration of the
hydraulic jack. The calibration should cover the whole range of jacking
forces to be applied during pile installation.
Submit method statement for the calibration of hydraulic jack for SO’s
approval before calibration.
The calibration shall be carried out in the presence of the SO with at

least two days notice. Submit the calibration report to the SO.
6.2.2 Re-calibration of the hydraulic jack at a force of 2.2WL shall be carried

out after jacking every 30 piles or repair of the hydraulic system. It
shall be carried out during the Pre-Loading Test of Clause 6.10 (ii) or
otherwise as directed by the SO. The pressure gauge readings shall be
measured against a calibrated load cell in the test. The measured δ/L
(as stated in Clause 6.12) of tested piles shall also be reported.
6.3 Method Statement for Pile Installation
Submit method statement for installation of piles for SO’s approval before
jacking of any pile. The method statement should include but not be limited to
the following:-
(a) Sequence of jacking of piles over the whole site;

(b) Maximum jacking force, Pmax , to be used;
(c) Termination procedures and criteria of the jacked piles;
(d) Verticality control during pile jacking;
(e) Splicing of piles;
(f) Storage of spliced piles;
(g) Transportation and lifting of pile sections;
(h) Measures to overcome underground obstructions and proposed depths of
pre-bored holes;
(i) Measures to prevent pile buckling.
6.4 Machinery for Jacking of Piles
Submit details of the hydraulic jacking machine for jacking of the piles. The
details shall include but not be limited to the following:-
(a) Allowable maximum capacity of the jacking machine;

(b) Total dead weight of the jacking machine
(c) Limitations for jacking of piles near site boundary and existing structures;
(d) Load controlling devices; and
(e) Devices for guiding and restraining the pile during jacking.
6.5 Monitoring of Jacking Force
The applied jacking force shall be continuously monitored during pile

installation. The jacking force should be increased in small increments when
approaching the target maximum applied jacking force Pmax.
6.6 Verification Test of Jacking Force
At least 10% of the piles (minimum five piles) shall be subjected to a

verification test of the jacking force. In the verification tests, the piles shall be
loaded to 2.2WL as in the Pre-Loading Test of Clause 6.10 (ii) and the force
shall be maintained for 15 minutes. The forces applied on the piles shall be
measured by a calibrated load cell while the total and residual settlements of
the piles shall be measured by dial gauges or optical surveying instrument with
an accuracy of +/- 0.1mm. The measured δ/L (as stated in Clause 6.12) of
tested piles shall also be reported.
The verification test of jacking force can be carried out either during or after
the Pre-Loading process as required in Clause 6.10 (ii) as directed by the SO.
6.7 Control Panel of Jacking Machine
The control panel shall be installed in a convenient and safe position for
inspection by the SO.
6.8 Overcoming Underground Obstructions to Piles
In case pre-boring is necessary to overcome underground obstructions, soil and

rock excavated during pre-boring shall be removed and the pre-bored hole shall
be backfilled with sand or other materials, subject to the approval of the SO,
before the steel pile is jacked into the ground.
6.9 Prevention of Pile Buckling
At any time during jacking, gaps between the steel-H pile and the pile hole shall
be kept filled up with sand.

6.10 Termination Procedures and Criteria
Before a pile can be terminated for installation, the pile shall undergo a Pre-
Loading process. The Contractor shall propose his termination procedures and
criteria for the Pre-Loading process which shall consist at least of the following:
(i) Before termination of a pile, the pile shall be first jacked to a force of
not less than 2.3WL and hold for a certain period of time to be
determined by the Contractor. The pre-loading shall be repeated to a no.
of cycles to be determined by the Contractor.
(ii) The 2nd stage of the Pre-Loading process is a Pre-Loading Test which
shall be carried out at a force of 2.2WL until the settlement rate is less
than 5mm per 15 minutes. The total and residual settlements of the pile
shall also be measured in the presence of the SO’s supervisory staff and
the records should all be certified by the SO’s supervisory staff.
The Contractor may propose any other additional steps of Pre-Loading process
as he considers necessary.
6.11 Trial Pile
A trial pile shall be installed to verify the termination procedures and criteria
proposed by the Contractor. In the trial pile, the forces applied on the pile
shall be measured by a calibrated load cell while the settlement of the pile shall
be measured by dial gauges or other precision optical instrument with an
accuracy of +/- 0.1mm.
The trial pile shall then be subjected to a static loading test as instructed by the
SO. Acceptance of the loading test is based on Clause 5.29(ii) to (iv) of the GS.
If the trial pile fails the static loading test, either the trial pile shall undergo the
Pre-Loading process in accordance with revised termination procedures and
criteria to be proposed by the Contractor and then load tested again for
verification, or the allowable load capacity has to be reduced. In the latter case,
a new trial pile has to be installed in accordance with revised termination
procedures and criteria to be proposed by the Contractor and then load tested to
twice the reduced allowable load capacity for verification. .
All working piles have to undergo a Pre-Loading process by the amount and
sequence determined from the trial pile. The total and residual settlements of all
working piles during the Pre-Loading process shall also be measured.
6.12 Monitoring of settlement and elastic shortening of piles during the Pre-
Loading Test
The total and residual settlements of every pile during the Pre-Loading Test
under the termination procedures shall be measured by optical surveying
equipment with an accuracy of +/- 0.1mm or dial gauges. The elastic
shortening (δ) of a pile during the Pre-Loading Test is defined as the difference
between the measured total and residual settlements of the pile under the Pre-
Loading force. The value of elastic shortening (mm)/total pile length (m) (δ/L)
of every pile shall be reported.
Any piles with δ/L less than the average value of δ/L of all tested piles
determined from the verification test of jacking force (Clause 6.6) and re-
calibration of the hydraulic jack (Clause 6.2.2) by more than 15% of the
average value shall be subjected to a verification test as stated in Clause 6.6.
6.13 Sufficiency of Design and Construction
The Contractor shall satisfy himself that the above method of pile installation
provides sufficient factor of safety in his design. Should he consider that this
method does not provide an adequate factor of safety in his design, he shall
submit an alternative proposal for the approval of the SO.
7.0 Piling Records
The Contractor shall keep records of the installation of each pile and submit two signed
copies of the records to the SO not later than noon of the next working day after the pile
has been installed. The record shall contain the following information in an approved
format: -
 Pile reference number

 Date pile installed
 Pile type and size
 Type of hydraulic jacking machine
 Depth of pre-bored hole
 Details of any obstructions, delays and other interruption during the jacking
process of the pile
 Pile top level
 Pile toe level
 Length of pile
 Pile penetration versus jacking force record
 Settlement vs time and elastic shortening during the Pre-Loading Test
 Any other data requested by the SO.
On completion of all piling works, the Contractor shall submit to the SO two sets of
piling record plans showing, as appropriate, the position, pile reference number, size,
orientation and levels of top and bottom of each pile installed. The as-built piling
record plans shall be certified by both the Contractor and an independent qualified
surveyor employed by the Contractor at his own cost.
8.0 Pile Spacing and Tolerances

Pile spacing and tolerances for steel H-piles stated in Clauses 5.08 and 5.23
respectively of GS apply equally to jacked steel H-piles.
9.0 Loading Test
Loading tests shall be required as instructed by the SO in accordance with Clause 5.29
of the GS. Notwithstanding the provisions given in Clause 5.29 of the GS, kentledge
for loading tests may be provided by the weight of the jacking machine subject to
approval by the SO.
10.0 Failure of Loading Test
When a pile fails a loading test, carry out remedial works to the pile or install
additional piles such that the revised piling layout is sufficient to sustain the loadings
as given in the loading schedule. Carry out test probes if required to position
additional piles. Design extended or extra pile caps and strap beams and any other
work necessitated by the pile failure. The agreement of the SO in writing shall be
sought before carrying out the remedial works. The Contractor shall carry out two
additional pile-loading tests as directed by the SO at the Contractor’s own cost and
time.
Alternatively, the failed pile can be subjected to a revised termination procedures and
criteria proposed by the Contractor and then load tested again for verification at the
Contractor’s own cost and time. The batch of piles of which this pile is representative
have to undergo the same termination procedures and criteria.

Particular Specification for Large Diameter Bored Piles Socketed into Bedrock
1.0 Definition
Large Diameter Bored Piles Socketed into Bedrock are those of a diameter
exceeding 750 mm formed by boring, chiselling or grabbing, plus filling with
concrete. The embedment depth into bedrock shall be greater than 600 mm and
formed by reverse circulation drill (RCD) or other method approved by the
Supervising Officer (SO).
The allowable load capacity of large diameter bored piles socketed into
granitic and volcanic bedrock may be taken as the sum of the frictional
resistance of the rock socket and the end bearing resistance of the piles
provided that the socket length used in the calculation of frictional
resistance does not exceed 2 pile diameters or 6 m, whichever is the
shorter. However, the contribution from the minimum embedment depth
of 600mm stipulated in Clause 5.19 (iii) of the General Specification for
Building (GS) shall not be counted in the calculation of frictional
resistance (i.e. the top level of effective rock socket shall be 600 mm
below the bedrock level).
The presumed allowable friction between bedrock and concrete are

shown in Table 1. Large Diameter Bored Piles Socketed into Bedrock
shall not be founded on rocks inferior to Grade III.
Description of rock Presumed allowable bond or

(granite and volcanic) friction between rock and
concrete (kPa)
Grade II or better rock with total core recovery greater
than 95% for any one metre within the rock mass and
minimum uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) not less 700
than 50 MPa (equivalent point load index strength PLI50
not less than 2 MPa)
Grade III or better rock with total core recovery greater
than 85% for any one metre within the rock mass and
minimum uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) not less 500
than 25 MPa (equivalent point load index strength PLI50
not less than 1 MPa)
Notes: (i) Concrete shall not be inferior to Grade 30 concrete.
(ii) The point load index strength of rock quoted is the equivalent value
for 50 mm diameter cores.
Table 1: Presumed allowable bond or friction between bedrock and concrete
Structural Engineering Branch, Arch. SD Page 1 of 5 File code:SEI0207(Rev3).doc
SE Instruction No. 02/07 KLT/MKW/KWL
1st Issue Date : September 2007 Revision No :3
Revision Date : April 2019
Bedrock is defined as rock mass of at least 5 m thick or 1.5 pile
diameters plus the rock socket length plus 600 mm thick, whichever is
the greater, and being Grade III or better rock (as defined in GEOGUIDE
3, “Guide to Rock and Soil Descriptions” prepared by Geotechnical
Engineering Office and published by GIS, Hong Kong).
The use of presumptive values in Table 1 does not preclude the

requirement for consideration of settlement of the structure.
If both Grade II or better rock and Grade III rock are present in the
bedrock, the lower grade of rock (i.e. Grade III) should be assumed in
the calculation of shaft friction.
The presumed allowable maximum bearing pressure of piles on bedrock

shall be in accordance with GS Clause 5.19 (iv).
* Notwithstanding GS Clause 5.04(i), the average compressive stress of

concrete pile shaft imposed by the working load shall not exceed 25%
of the design grade strength of the concrete or 9.0 MPa whichever is
smaller. The maximum allowable compressive stress of the
reinforcement imposed by working load shall not exceed 225 MPa for
ribbed steel reinforcing bars in Grade 500.
OR
* The average compressive stress of concrete pile shaft imposed by the

working load shall not exceed 25% of the design grade strength of the
concrete or 7.5 MPa whichever is smaller. The maximum allowable
compressive stress of the reinforcement imposed by working load shall
not exceed 225 MPa for ribbed steel reinforcing bars in Grade 500.
* delete as appropriate (reference should be made to the Guidelines on the Design of

Large Diameter Bored Piles Socketed into Bedrock for selection of different criteria)
The Contractor shall satisfy himself that the above method of calculating
the allowable load capacity provides sufficient factor of safety in his
design. Should he consider that this method does not provide an
adequate factor of safety in his design, he shall submit an alternative
method of calculations for the approval of the SO.
2.2 Bell-out at Pile Base
In the design of pile capacity, combining the rock socket side resistance
and bell-out at the pile base to increase the load-carrying capacity shall
not be allowed. For bell-out piles, the side resistance of rock socket shall
be ignored.

2.3 Reinforcement Details
Reinforcement should be provided as shown in Fig. 1.
2.4 Drilling before Construction
Site borings to pre-determine the piles founding levels shall be carried

out by an independent Ground Investigation Contractor from the List of
Approved Suppliers of Materials and Specialist Contractors for Public
Works – Ground Investigation Field Work Category.
Drill hole(s) (one for pile diameter less than or equal to 2.5 m and two
for pile diameter greater than 2.5 m) shall be sunk at each bored pile
position to determine the pile founding level and rock properties. The
location of drill hole(s) shall be agreed by the SO. For this purpose,
continuous rock core samples of N size with length not less than 5 m or
1.5 pile diameters plus the rock socket length plus 600 mm, whichever
is the greater, shall be taken below the bedrock level for inspection and
testing. Rock specimens shall be taken at top, middle and bottom along
the length of rock core samples for point load test to determine the
uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of rock. However, this predicted
founding level cannot be considered as final and the actual rock quality
at base of pile should be inspected and verified during pile excavation
before approval.
3.0 Controlling and Monitoring the Verticality and Alignment of Bored Piles
The Contractor shall submit a detailed method statement and procedures for
controlling and monitoring the verticality and alignment of piles for the SO’s
approval before commencement of pile installation.
During the pile installation, tolerance for verticality of each pile shall be
frequently checked as directed by the SO. In case the deviation exceeding the
allowable tolerance, the Contractor shall propose method of rectification for the
SO’s approval prior to further pile installation.
In addition to those stated in GS Clause 5.02 and Clause 3.0 of this Particular
Specification, the Contractor may submit for SO’s approval the information on
the proposed materials, method of installation for piling works and quality
control measures prior to the piling design submissions.

The Contractor shall also submit method statement on the fabrication of
reinforcement cages for the SO’s approval. The method statement shall include
the following:
(i) Step-by-step procedures of reinforcement cage fabrication;
(ii) Stability support system;
(iii) Working platform arrangement;
(iv) Safety plan.
5.0 Other Requirements
Unless otherwise specified, requirements related to Large Diameter Bored Piles

as stipulated in the General Specification for Building shall also apply to Large
Diameter Bored Piles Socketed into Bedrock.

Particular Specification for Large Diameter Bored Piles with Bell-outs
1.0 Definition
Large Diameter Bored Piles with Bell-outs are piles of a shaft diameter
exceeding 750 mm formed by boring, chiselling or grabbing with an enlarged
base formed by under-reaming, plus filling with concrete. The bell-out at the
pile base shall be formed within the bedrock with the use of a reverse circulation
drill (RCD) incorporating an under-reaming head.
The allowable load capacity of large diameter bored piles with bell-outs
shall be the allowable bearing pressure on bedrock times the pile base
area. Combining the end-bearing capacity and rock socket side
resistance to increase the load-carrying capacity shall not be allowed.
Bedrock is defined as rock mass of at least 5 m plus the socket length

(as defined in Fig. 1), and being Grade III or better rock (as defined in
GEOGUIDE 3, “Guide to Rock and Soil Descriptions” prepared by
Geotechnical Engineering Office and published by GIS, Hong Kong).
For design purpose, the maximum bearing pressure of piles on bedrock

shall not exceed the following:
(a) 5 MPa for Grade III or better rock (granite and volcanic) with
total core recovery greater than 85% for any one metre within the rock
mass and minimum uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) not less than
25 MPa (equivalent point load index strength PLI50 not less than 1 MPa)
(b) 7.5 MPa for Grade II or better rock (granite and volcanic) with
total core recovery greater than 95% for any one metre within the rock
mass and minimum uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) not less than
50 MPa (equivalent point load index strength PLI50 not less than 2 MPa)
The point load index strength of rock is the equivalent value for 50 mm
diameter cores.
(c) 3 MPa for Grade III or better meta-sedimentary rock with total
core recovery greater than 85% for any one metre within the rock mass.
The use of the above presumptive values does not preclude the
requirement for consideration of settlement of the structure.

The gradient of bell-out shall not exceed 30 degrees from vertical, and
the diameter of pile at bell-out shall not exceed 1.65 times the diameter
of pile shaft. The bell-out shall start at more than 300 mm below the
bedrock level (see Fig. 1).
Where steep bedrock profile is identified, the founding levels of adjacent

piles should not differ by more than the clear distance between the pile
bases unless the stability of rock under the piles are checked by
recognized engineering principles, taking into account the existence of
any adverse joints.
* Notwithstanding GS Clause 5.04(i), the average compressive stress of

concrete pile shaft imposed by the working load shall not exceed 25%
of the design grade strength of the concrete or 9.0 MPa whichever is
smaller. The maximum allowable compressive stress of the
reinforcement imposed by working load shall not exceed 225 MPa for
ribbed steel reinforcing bars in Grade 500.
OR
* The average compressive stress of concrete pile shaft imposed by the

working load shall not exceed 25% of the design grade strength of the
concrete or 7.5 MPa whichever is smaller. The maximum allowable
compressive stress of the reinforcement imposed by working load shall
not exceed 225 MPa for ribbed steel reinforcing bars in Grade 500.
* delete as appropriate (reference should be made to the Guidelines on the Design of

Large Diameter Bored Piles with Bell-outs for selection of different criteria)
The Contractor shall satisfy himself that the above method of calculating
the allowable load capacity provides sufficient factor of safety in his
design. Should he consider that this method does not provide an
adequate factor of safety in his design, he shall submit an alternative
method of calculations for the approval of the Supervising Officer (SO).
2.2 Reinforcement Detail
Reinforcement should be provided as shown in Fig. 1. The depth ‘H’ in

Fig. 1 is bell-out tool dependent. It shall be verified on site and agreed
with the SO before commencement of pile installation.
2.3 Drilling before Construction
Site borings to pre-determine the piles founding levels shall be carried

out by an independent Ground Investigation Contractor from the List of
Approved Suppliers of Materials and Specialist Contractors for Public
Works – Ground Investigation Field Work Category.

Drill hole(s) (one for pile bell-out diameter less than or equal to 2.5 m,
two for pile bell-out diameter greater than 2.5 m and less than or equal
to 3.75 m and three for pile bell-out diameter greater than 3.75 m) shall
be sunk at each bored pile position to determine the pile founding level
and rock properties. The location of drill hole(s) shall be agreed by the
SO. For this purpose, continuous rock core samples of N size with length
not less than 5 m plus the socket length (as defined in Fig. 1) shall be
taken below the bedrock level for inspection and testing. Rock
specimens shall be taken at top, middle and bottom along the length of
rock core samples for point load test to determine the uniaxial
compressive strength (UCS) of rock. However, this predicted founding
level cannot be considered as final and the actual rock quality at base of
pile should be inspected and verified during pile excavation before
approval.
3.0 Testing
3.1 Ultrasonic Echo Sounding Test
Ultrasonic Echo Sounding Test shall be carried out by an approved

independent testing laboratory employed by the Contractor to check the
shaft and bell-out profile, dimensions and verticality of each bored pile
for the SO’s approval prior to installation of reinforcement cage and
concreting. In addition, the SO may order to carry out the same test on
5% of the total number of piles rounded up to the next whole number by
a Testing Firm employed direct by the Employer. The Contractor shall
co-ordinate with the Testing Firm for the test and provide all necessary
attendance. The Contractor shall also allow at least 7 working days for
the execution of each test by the Testing Firm employed direct by the
Employer.
4.0 Controlling and Monitoring the Verticality, Alignment and bell-out size of
Bored Piles
The Contractor shall submit a detailed method statement and procedures for
controlling and monitoring the verticality, alignment and bell-out size of bored
piles. Site demonstration on reamer operation shall be carried out on site to
establish the reference mark for developing the movement relation between
bell-out bit and drive shaft. The detailed method statement, procedures and site
demonstration shall be approved by SO before commencement of pile
installation.
During the pile installation, the drive shaft reference mark shall be checked and
monitored to ensure the bell-out size formed by the bell-out bit is in accordance
with the design and approved method statement.

The tolerance for verticality of each pile and the bell-out size formed by the
bell-out bit shall be frequently checked and monitored as directed by the SO. In
case the deviation exceeding the allowable tolerance, the Contractor shall
propose method of rectification for the SO’s approval prior to further pile
installation.
In addition to those stated in GS Clause 5.02 and Clause 4.0 of this Particular
Specification, the Contractor may submit for SO’s approval the information on
the proposed materials, method of installation for piling works and quality
control measures prior to the piling design submissions.
The Contractor shall also submit method statement on the fabrication of

reinforcement cages for the SO’s approval. The method statement shall include
the following:
(i) Step-by-step procedures of reinforcement cage fabrication;
(ii) Stability support system;
(iii) Working platform arrangement;
(iv) Safety plan.
6.0 Other Requirements
Unless otherwise specified, requirements related to Large Diameter Bored Piles

as stipulated in the General Specification for Building shall also apply to Large
Diameter Bored Piles with Bell-out.

Particular Specification for Non-percussion Cast In-situ Concrete Piles
1.0 Definitions
1.1 Non-percussion cast in-situ concrete piles are piles with diameters not
exceeding 610 mm and are either:
a) Pakt-in Place (PIP) or piles formed by similar techniques, or
b) piles formed by boring with an auger and temporary casing
1.2 For the purpose of this Particular Specification (PS) the following definitions
apply:
Incremental grout factor for 1.5 m increment - Actual grout volume placed
divided by theoretical grout
volume for the 1.5 m
increment.
Total grout factor - Actual grout volume placed divided by theoretical grout
volume of pile.
Grout-return depth - The grout-return depth is defined as the depth of the

auger tip when the grout on the auger flights reaches
the ground surface.
Auger refusal - Auger refusal is defined as a rate of auger penetration of less

than 300 mm per minute of drilling.
2.0 Piling Installation Procedures / Details
2.1 General
Non-percussion cast in-situ concrete piles shall be formed by one of the

methods described in Clause 2.2 to Clause 2.3 below.
Ground settlement monitoring shall be carried out during pile installation.

Should there be any noticeable damage or undue settlement caused by the
piling activities, the works shall be stopped immediately and the SO shall be
informed accordingly.
A minimum period of 7 days has to elapse following the completion of casting

before carrying out pile head cut off work.
The pile may be designed to resist lateral loads.
Structural Engineering Branch, Arch. SD Page 1 of 11 File code:SEI 04/10.doc

SE Instruction No. 04/2010 MKW
Issue Date : 17 March 2010 Revision Date :
2.2 Pakt-in Place (PIP)
2.2.1 System Description
The excavation for PIP piles shall be formed by rotating a continuous-flight,

hollow-shaft auger into the ground to the designed depth. The flights of the
auger are filled with soil as the auger is installed into the ground, and the soil
on the auger is used to provide lateral support to maintain the stability of the
hole. After reaching the design pile depth, cement sand grout of 25 MPa
strength at 28 days shall then be injected with sufficient pressure through the
auger shaft, as the auger is being withdrawn, in such a way as to exert an
upward pressure as well as a positive lateral pressure on the surrounding soil.
The grout shall contain approved admixtures to improve the workability and
compensate for the shrinkage effect.
A reinforcement cage, as detailed in Annex 1, shall be lowered into the pile

shaft while the grout is still fluid. The reinforcement cage shall be maintained
in its final position until the grout has hardened.
2.2.2 Equipment
2.2.2.1 Augering Equipment
The augering equipment shall have adequate torque and down force to
turn and advance the augers of specified diameter to the designed depth
and maintain adequate penetration speed.
The auger flight shall be continuous from the auger top to the tip
without gaps or other breaks. The auger flight shall be uniform in
diameter throughout its length and shall be of the diameter specified for
the piles less a maximum of 3 percent. The auger cutting teeth shall be
regularly inspected for wear and shall be replaced if the above specified
reduction in diameter tolerance occurs.
Leads shall be marked at 0.5 m intervals numbered at least every 2 m to

facilitate measurement of auger penetration.
2.2.2.2 Mixing and Pumping Equipment
The mixing and pumping equipment to be used in the preparation and

handling of the grout have to be assessed and approved by the SO
before use. A screen to remove oversize particles shall be placed at the
pump hopper or inlet.
The grout pump shall be provided with an operable pressure gauge and
stroke counter in clear view of the equipment operator. The grout pump
shall be calibrated at the beginning of the work to determine the volume

of grout pumped per stroke, and shall be periodically re-calibrated when
deemed necessary by the SO during the project construction. As a
minimum, the grout pump shall be re-calibrated (i) after any significant
pump maintenance/repair, or (ii) if any modifications to the pump are
made, or (iii) if pumps are changed. An approved method of counting
grout pump strokes shall be provided by the Contractor. Such methods
may include digital or mechanical stroke counters or other acceptable
methods.
The grout pump shall be calibrated by using a 250-litre drum. During

the calibration, the Contractor must not over fill the 250-litre drum and
the site staff must correct the grout volume for the portion of the drum
not filled with grout when computing the pump calibration factor. If the
grout is provided by a ready mix supplier, additional periodic large-
scale calibration checks can be made by dividing the volume of a
truckload by the number of strokes pumped to empty it.
2.2.3 Quality Control of Grout
2.2.3.1 Fluidity
Fluidity shall be checked for sample from each truckload of grout using
a flow cone in accordance with ASTM C 939. A 19 mm diameter
flowcone shall be used. Flow rates shall be within the range of 10 to 25
seconds. The sample for performing the fluidity check should be
obtained from the ready mix truck chute.
2.2.3.2 Grout Cubes
Two grout cubes of 100 mm size shall be made for each pile for
unconfined compression testing. Additional sets of cubes should be
made on any batch of grout used in piles, which appears to deviate
from project criteria including placement beyond time limit. The grout
sample used to make the compressive testing specimens should be
representative of the material in the pile and may be obtained from the
grout pump hopper at the time of pumping, the auger or the pile itself.
2.2.3.3 Grout Temperature
Maximum grout temperature shall not exceed 38oC.
2.2.3.4 Initial Set
The Contractor shall sample each truckload of grout directly from the
pump hopper using a 225 to 350 mL capacity disposable glass or cup
when the grout truck reaches the site to evaluate premature setting or
“initial set” of the grout mix. The grout shall not be used if the initial
set has occurred and it is considered that this has occurred when the
grout begins assuming the shape of the container when tilted from the
vertical.
2.2.4 Installation Procedures
2.2.4.1 Advance the auger at a continuous rate that prevents removal of excess
soil which can result in reduction of horizontal effective stress and
relative density in the soil around the pile being installed and
previously installed piles nearby, lateral movement of soil towards the
hole, and ground subsidence at the surface. Stop advancement after
reaching the required embedment depth.
2.2.4.2 Prior to raising the auger, a minimum theoretical initial grout head of
2 m shall be pumped. The grout quantity shall be determined by
counting pump strokes and using the pre-determined grout volume per
pump stroke. Positive (clockwise) rotation of the auger shall be
maintained at all times during placement of the grout. The rate of
grout injection and auger withdrawal shall be coordinated so as to
maintain:
(i) Sufficient grout head at all times.
(ii) The grout factor for each 1.5 m increment, which shall be not
less than the smallest 1.5 m incremental grout factor obtained
during the trial pile installation and in no case less than 1.15.
(iii) The grout-return depth, which shall be equal to or greater than

the grout head that was pumped at the bottom of the pile and
shall be at least 2.0 m.
(iv) The total grout factor, which shall be not less than the value
established during trial pile installation and in no case less than
1.4.
2.2.4.3 If grout pumping is interrupted for any reason, or discontinued grout

or slurry return at the ground surface is observed, the Contractor shall
lower the auger at least 1.5 m below the level where the interruption
occurred while continuously pumping grout.
2.2.4.4 If the volume of grout placed in any 1.5 m increment result in the
incremental grout factor less than the minimum value observed in the
trial pile installation, the auger shall be lowered 1.5 m or to the bottom
of the pile if that is less, followed by controlled auger withdrawal
while maintaining grout injection.

2.2.4.5 Auger turning and hoisting equipment shall be provided that will
enable the auger to be continuously rotated in a positive (clockwise)
direction while being withdrawn at a steady, continuous rate while
pumping grout.
2.2.4.6 The grout shall be cast at least 600 mm above the specified cut-off
level.
2.2.4.7 The excess spoil that accumulates around the auger due to the drilling
process and grout injection shall be promptly cleared away.
2.2.4.8 Reinforcement cage shall be installed immediately upon completion of

the grouting operation and before the grout reaches its initial set. The
reinforcement cage shall be free of soil, auger spoil or other
deleterious materials prior to insertion into the grouted shafts. The
reinforcement cage shall fall freely under its own weight to the
specified level within the shaft; vibration or pushing of the cage with
equipment shall not be allowed.
2.2.4.9 Adjacent piles closer than 6 pile diameters shall not be placed within
24 hours of each other.
2.2.5 Non-Conformity
For piles not conforming to any specified requirements (e.g. grout-return depth
and/or total grout factor), the Contractor shall lower the auger to the bottom of
the pile while the grout is still fluid and regrout the hole. Otherwise, the
Contractor shall demonstrate to the SO that the piles in doubt can sustain the
design loading. All tests for this purpose shall be at the Contractor’s own
expense and no extension of time shall be granted whatsoever.
2.2.6 Obstructions
If underground obstruction is encountered in the top few metres of the ground,

it can generally be removed and the pile reinstalled at its planned location. For
obstruction encountered at greater depths which causes auger refusal, the
following procedures should be followed:
(i) For a pile closer than 6 pile diameters from any completed pile – to
grout the hole above the obstruction in accordance with this PS and
relocate the pile.
(ii) For a pile with distance greater than 6 pile diameters from any
completed pile – to remove the obstruction by a method approved by
the SO, backfill the hole with sand before reconstruction of the pile.
However, in the estimation of pile length, the positive shaft friction

contributing to the pile resistance above the obstruction shall be
ignored.
2.2.7 Trial Pile Installation
At the commencement of pile installation, at least two trial piles of different

lengths shall be installed. The lengths of these two trial piles shall be
calculated using equation 1 of Section 3.1, based on two µ values proposed by
the Contractor which shall not be greater than 1.6. The Contractor should
choose the µ values based on his own capability and equipment to be used in
pile installation. These trial piles shall be load tested to Clause 5.28 of the
General Specification for Building (GS) to validate the design and method of
construction and to determine an appropriate µ value for the design of piles for
the Contract.
During the trial pile installation, the total grout factor and the grout factor for
each 1.5 m increment of the trial piles shall be recorded. All working piles
shall be designed and constructed based on the performance of the trial piles
passing the static loading test.
2.2.8 Singlehole Sonic Logging
For each PIP pile, install a single u-PVC access pipe with an internal diameter
of 40 mm attaching to the centre of reinforcing steel cage. The length of
access pipe should be equal to that of the reinforcing steel cage and filled with
water. Sonic logging should be performed about 3 days after the pile has
been installed.
2.2.9 Pile Integrity Test
Notwithstanding Annex F of Section 5 of the GS, Pile Integrity Test using

Pulse Echo Method/Transient Response Method (Vibration Test) shall be
carried out for 15% of the number of PIP piles installed.
2.3 Piles formed by boring with an auger and temporary casing
2.3.1 System Description
These piles are formed by augering with a temporary casing used to stabilise
the surrounding soil. The pile shaft shall be filled with concrete of Grade 25 or
higher. The maximum aggregate size for the concrete shall be 10 mm. The
casing shall be withdrawn slowly while maintaining a sufficient head of
concrete in the pile shaft to prevent the caving in of surrounding soil. The
actual volume of concrete cast shall be compared with the theoretical volume

and any anomaly observed shall be reported to the SO. The concrete shall be
cast at least 600 mm above the specified cut-off level.
The reinforcement cage shall be lowered at a suitable time and maintained in

its final position until the concrete has hardened.
2.3.2 Obstructions
When underground obstruction is encountered during pile installation, an

auger-drill bit equipped with special tungsten-carbide cutters or other approved
equipment may be used to drill through the obstruction.
Down-the-hole hammer may also be used to overcome underground

obstruction subject to the agreement of the SO. Do not use down-the-hole
hammer to overcome obstruction within 3 m radius of any newly cast pile until
a minimum period of 48 hours has elapsed following the completion of casting
of any such pile.
2.3.3 Trial Pile Installation
At the commencement of pile installation, at least two trial piles of different

lengths shall be installed. The lengths of these two trial piles shall be
calculated using equation 1 of Section 3.1, based on two µ values proposed by
the Contractor which shall not be greater than 0.7. The Contractor should
choose the µ values based on his own capability and equipment to be used in
pile installation. These trial piles shall be load tested to Clause 5.28 of the GS
to validate the design and method of construction and to determine an
appropriate µ value for the design of piles for the Contract.
2.3.4 Pile Integrity Test
Notwithstanding Annex F of Section 5 of the GS, Pile Integrity Test using

Pulse Echo Method/Transient Response Method (Vibration Test) shall be
carried out for 15% of the number of piles installed.
The theoretical safe loading capacity of individual pile shall be the sum of
allowable skin friction capacity of the pile (qs) and the allowable end bearing
capacity of the pile (qa):
Theoretical safe loading capacity of pile = qs + qa
= µ Nav P L + 5 N A (1)

Where :
µ = designed friction coefficient to be verified by trial pile ≤ 1.6 for PIP

piles and ≤ 0.7 for piles formed by boring with an auger and
temporary casing
Nav = average SPT “N” value along the pile shaft in blows/300 mm
(maximum value to be used is limited to 40)
P = perimeter of pile
L = length of pile
A = cross sectional area of pile
N = SPT value in blows / 300 mm at the pile toe
(maximum “N” value to be used is limited to 200)
Note: Shaft friction in filling materials and marine deposits shall be ignored.
It should be noted that the methods of calculating the theoretical safe loading
capacity are intended as guidance for general cases. The Contractor shall build
in a greater margin of safety in his design where necessary, having regard to
the subsoil conditions of the site and his method of pile installation.
3.2 Founding Level
Before commencement of pile installation, additional drill holes shall be

carried out to obtain sufficient information for determination of pile length.
The additional drill holes shall be in sufficient number such that any pile tip
shall not be more than 5m away from the nearest drill hole. This predrilling
shall be carried out by an independent Ground Investigation Contractor.
Submit two copies of the drill-hole logs to the SO within 3 days of the
predrilling.
3.3 Pile Load Capacity
The theoretical safe loading capacity of an individual pile is not to exceed the
following:
Load Condition Capacity of Capacity of Capacity of

450 mm diameter 550 mm diameter 610 mm diameter
pile (KN) pile (KN) pile (KN)
Dead load + 795 1188 1460

Live load
Dead load + 994 1485 1825
Live load +
Wind load

3.4 Reinforcement Details
Provide reinforcement as shown in Annex 1. Steel reinforcement shall comply

with Section 6 of the GS.
(i) For axially loaded piles, the reinforcement shall be 10 m long or otherwise
approved by the SO. .
(ii) For piles subjected to vertical and lateral loads, the reinforcement should
be sufficient to resist all actions including the bending moment. Minimum
cover to reinforcement shall be 75 mm.
4.0 Static Loading Tests

Loading tests shall be instructed by the SO in accordance with Clause 5.28 of the GS.
5.0 Piling Records

The Contractor shall keep records of the installation of each pile and submit two
signed copies of these records to the SO not later than noon of the next working day
after the pile was installed.
5.1 The following aspects of PIP Piles installation shall be documented on each
pile installation record in an approved format:
a) Weather conditions and temperature
b) Date piles placed
c) Pile site supervisory staff’s name
d) Grout truck number, arrival time on-site, batch time and batch volume
e) Grout sampling time and time of initial set
f) Grout cubes made by the Contractor
g) Flow cone test results
h) Auger diameter (note actual diameter each time measured in field)
i) Time period for drilling of pile
j) Rate of penetration of auger (Revolution per Auger Pitch)
k) Abnormal drilling behaviour
l) Pile drilled length/pile tip and top elevation
m) Theoretical pile volume
n) Time period for grouting of pile
o) Range in pressure observed during grouting
p) Grout return depth
q) Grout volume pumped per 1.5 m increment of pile length
r) Total number of pump strokes to complete pile (actual grout volume)
s) Total grout factor
t) Reinforcing steel cage installed in the pile
u) Special remarks (e.g., time of and reason for interruptions during
grouting, extra grout cubes made, etc.).
v) Any other data requested by the SO.

5.2 The following aspects of piles formed by augering with a temporary casing
shall be documented on each pile installation record in an approved format:
a) Pile type and size.

b) Pile reference number.
c) Date and time of boring
d) Soil samples taken and insitu test carried out if any
e) Date of concreting.
f) Position of pile in the works and ground level at pile position.
g) Working level.
h) Depth from working level to pile toe.
i) Depth from working level to pile head level.
j) Toe level.
k) Drilling rates and material encountered.
l) Concrete mix.
m) Volume of concrete in pile (actual and theoretical).
n) Details of obstructions, delays and other interruptions to sequence of
work.
o) Any other data requested by the SO.
On completion of all piling, submit to the SO two copies of record piling plan
showing, as appropriate, the position, identity number, size and top and bottom
levels of each pile installed.
In addition to those stated in Clause 5.02 of the GS, submit 2 copies of each of the
following with the design submissions:-
a) Details of concrete / grout / mortar mix.
b) Method of installation including equipment to be used, sequence of operations,
drilling methods.
c) Pile head, reinforcement details.
d) Ground settlement monitoring proposal.
e) Any other requirements specified in this particular specification.
No piling works shall commence on site unless the design submissions are approved
by the SO.

8T 25 REINFORCEMENT BARS
L = 700
OF 10M LENGTH
75
R10 - 225 BINDERS
L = 9 300

Particular Specification for
Reinforced Massive Concrete Structures
1. General
Reinforced Massive Concrete Structures include pile caps, transfer plates and structural
members where the least dimension exceeds 1.5 metres.
This Particular Specification is not applicable to the construction of large diameter bored
piles, barrette piles and diaphragm walls.
2. Method Statement
At least two months before commencement of concreting, the Contractor shall submit a
method statement for temperature control. The information to be submitted shall include,
but not be limited to, the following:
(a) concrete mix details including heat of hydration and specific heat characteristics of
the cementitious constituents, expected concrete temperature rise and the proposed
initial concrete placing temperature;
(b) formwork type and insulation proposal;
(c) curing details related to temperature effects;
(d) maximum and minimum concrete placing temperatures;
(e) minimum and maximum times before formwork and insulation are stripped;
(f) any additional methods for controlling the concrete temperature;
(g) concrete temperature monitoring proposals with sufficient thermocouples which

shall be sufficient to demonstrate that the requirements of the Contract will be met;
(h) based on the TRET results, analyses and calculations to prove that the proposals
will meet the requirements of the Contract.
3. Concrete Trial Mixes
Trial mixes shall not be prepared until the SO has approved the Contractor’s mix design in
writing. Trial mixes shall be prepared under the supervision of the SO at least 35 days
before the commencement of concreting.
Structural Engineering Branch, ArchSD Page 1 of 4 File code: sei0511 (Rev 2).doc
SE Instruction No. 05/2011 Revision No. 2
Issue Date : March 2020 KLT/LSL/KWL
4. Temperature Rise Evaluation Test
A Temperature Rise Evaluation Test (TRET) shall be made. The test shall consist of an
insulated 800mm×800mm×800mm concrete block constructed to the approval of the SO.
The block shall be instrumented with a minimum of three centrally located thermocouples
connected to an automatic data logger and hourly readings shall be taken until the
temperature has fallen to more than 10oC below the peak temperature. The insulation of
the concrete block shall be complete and equivalent to at least 200mm of expanded
polystyrene with additional protection provided as necessary. The concrete block shall be
constructed and instrumented to the approval of the SO. The information gained during
this test shall be used by the Contractor in the formulation of the temperature control
methods for the mix. The concrete blocks shall be retained for a minimum of 3 months or
as directed by the SO in a manner to ensure that damage or degradation does not occur.
The results of the TRET shall be used in conjunction with the Contractor’s proposed
insulation/cooling methods to evaluate compliance with the temperature control
requirements.
5. Concrete Temperature Limits
Temperature control for concrete shall comply with the following requirements:
(a) The Contractor shall employ effective means such as shading the aggregates, pre-
cooling mixing water and adding flaked ice to ensure the temperature of concrete
prior to and including the time at which it is placed shall not exceed 25 oC.
(b) After the concrete has been placed, its peak temperature in any part of the structure
shall not be permitted to rise above 85 oC.
(c) After the concrete has been placed, the maximum temperature difference between
any point of a concrete section and the adjacent surface shall not be greater than 20
o
C times the shortest distance, in metres, between the point and the surface.
(d) The Contractor shall employ effective means such as insulation, selection of
appropriate pour cycle times, or heating/cooling as necessary, to ensure that at any
time within 21 days after the concrete has been placed, the temperature differential
between any point in the freshly placed concrete of any structural element at a
distance of 600mm from a construction joint and the corresponding point 600mm
from the construction joint in the adjacent previously placed structural element,
shall not exceed 20 oC.
6. Concrete Temperature Measurement
(a) The initial placing temperature of the concrete shall be measured by inserting a
calibrated probe-type thermometer, with a r 1 oC accuracy, into each delivery of the
concrete at the time of discharge from the vehicle transporting it or not later than
15 minutes thereafter. The thermometer shall be calibrated weekly.
(b) The Contractor shall continuously compare the real time results of the on-going
temperature monitoring with the predicted values and make appropriate
adjustments to the temperature control methods used on current and subsequent
pours to ensure compliance with this Particular Specification.
(c) The temperature of the hydrating concrete shall be measured for each pour until 21
days after pouring using a sufficient number of calibrated thermocouples to
demonstrate that the requirements of Clause 5 above have been achieved. The
accuracy of thermocouples shall be within a r 2 oC accuracy.
(d) The thermocouples shall be suitably robust to withstand concrete placing, and be
adequately protected and firmly fixed in position on the reinforcement cage. The
thermocouples shall not be placed closer than 300mm to any cooling water pipes to
ensure that they give representative temperature readings.
(e) The output of the thermocouples shall be continuously recorded using an automated
data logger. The power supply to the data logger shall be non-interruptible and the
equipment shall be maintained and checked at least twice per day to ensure that they
are operating satisfactorily.
(f) The thermocouples shall be calibrated in conjunction with the working and backup
data logger(s) and the calibration results shall be submitted at least 7 days prior to
incorporation within the Works.
(g) After installation of the thermocouples within the pour and immediately prior to
concreting, the thermocouples shall be checked by comparing the relative ambient
temperature readings. Any damaged or malfunctioned thermocouple shall be
replaced prior to the commencement of concreting.
(h) After the placing of concrete, the temperature readings shall be taken at a maximum
of hourly intervals for the initial 7 days after placing. The monitoring frequency
can be reduced to 12 r 1 hours thereafter until 21 days after placing or until the
maximum temperature is less than 15 oC above the daily minimum ambient
temperature.
(i) The output from the data loggers shall be down loaded daily by the Contractor. A
copy of the data shall be given to the SO immediately after down loading in an
agreed electronic and hard copy format.
(j) Within 7 days from the completion of the temperature monitoring period the
Contractor shall submit a report. The report shall include the individual tabulated
temperature results and calculated values indicating compliance, as required by this
Particular Specification, for all maximum and differential temperature
measurements. The report shall be presented in both tabulated and graphical format
and shall include all thermocouples within the same measurement plane on the same
graph to ensure that the temperature differentials between the core, surface and
ambient are readily discernable. Any non-compliance with this Particular
Specification shall be highlighted and proposals given for remedial works and
ensuring compliance in subsequent pours. If the non-compliance is on the
temperature limits as specified in Clause 5 above, the method statement shall be
reviewed and re-submitted to the SO for approval before further concreting of
reinforced massive concrete structure. The Contractor shall submit proposal for
SO’s approval to verify the structural integrity of reinforced concrete structure at
the Contractor’s expense.
7. Special Measures Involving More Than a Single Pour
If the Contractor proposes to concrete the reinforced massive concrete structure in more
than one operation, he shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the SO that:
(a) at all stages the temperature differential limits specified in Clause 5(c) above will
not be exceeded at any one time;
(b) the maximum temperature of 85 oC will not be exceeded;
(c) the stresses in the concrete structure due to temperature changes under strain will
not induce tension cracks;
(d) the construction joint will be treated to ensure monolithic action between the
different pours.
(e) the temperature differentials between two adjacent pours will comply with Clause
5(d) above.
(f) the temperature of concrete prior to and including the time at which it is placed will
comply with Clause 5(a) above.
Particular Specification for Tension Piles
1.0 General
1.1 The following types of piles shall be permitted to be designed as tension piles:
*(i) Rock-socketed Steel H-piles (RSSHP)

*(ii) Minipiles
*(iii) Large diameter bored piles
*(iv) Steel ‘H’ piles
* delete as appropriate.
1.2 For large diameter bored piles, the requirements stipulated in the Particular
Specification for Large Diameter Bored Piles Socketed into Bedrocks shall be
applicable except those modified by this Particular Specification.
1.3 The allowable anchorage resistance Ra and the ultimate anchorage resistance Ru
of a pile shall be taken as:
Ra = allowable uplift resistance of pile + effective self weight of pile; and
Ru = ultimate uplift resistance of pile + effective self weight of pile
The allowable uplift resistance and ultimate uplift resistance of pile may be
derived from Clause 2 and 3 of this Particular Specification.
1.4 The following criteria under transient and permanent tension shall both be
satisfied for the design:
Under Transient Tension
(a) Dmin + 0.9Ru - 2.0Ia - 1.5 Ua (or 1.1Up) - 1.5Wk ≧ 0

(b) Dmin + Ra - Ia - Ua - Wk ≥ 0

1st Issue Date: June 2005 Revision No : 1
Revision Date: June 2019
Under Permanent Tension
(c) Dmin + 0.9Ru - 2.0Ia - 1.5 Ua (or 1.1Up) ≧ 0

(d) Dmin + Ra - Ia - Ua ≥ 0
where Dmin = Minimum dead load

Ra = Allowable anchorage resistance of the pile
Ru = Ultimate anchorage resistance of the pile
Ia = Adverse imposed load including soil loads
Ua = Uplift due to the highest anticipated groundwater table
Up = Uplift due to the highest possible groundwater table
Wk = Adverse wind load
The highest anticipated groundwater table and the highest possible groundwater
table shall be as specified on the drawings.
1.5 Except for large diameter bored piles, tension piles of the same type and size
shall be designed and constructed to the same Ra and Ru under the respective
transient or permanent tension.
1.6 Tension piles under the same building structure shall be of the same type.
Except for large diameter bored piles, tension piles under the same pile cap shall
be of the same size and same Ra and Ru under the respective transient or
permanent tension.
1.7 Definition of transient tension and permanent tension:
(a) Transient tension shall mean tension in a foundation element induced by

wind load and load combination with wind.
(b) Permanent tension shall mean tension induced to the foundation that is not
categorised as transient tension.
2.0 Piles with rock socket
2.1 The allowable uplift resistance of individual pile shall not exceed the least of the
following:
(a) the allowable bond stress between rock and concrete/grout times the area
of contact between the rock and concrete/grout below the effective rock
socket top level; or
(b) the allowable bond stress between the steel H-section and grout times the
total area of contact between the steel H-section and grout below the
effective rock socket top level, for RSSHP; or
(c) the allowable bond stress between the reinforcement and concrete/grout
times the effective area of contact between the reinforcement and
concrete/grout, below the effective rock socket top level, for minipiles and
large diameter bored pile. For minipiles, the effective area of contact shall
be calculated from the effective diameter of a group of bars (with spacing
between adjacent bars less than 25mm) which shall be equivalent to the
diameter of a bar of equal total area; or
(d) the allowable axial force for the steel H-section or steel reinforcements
forming the pile.
The ultimate uplift resistance shall be taken as 2 times the allowable uplift
resistance in this sub-clause and shall not exceed the total effective weight of the
rock cone and the soil column directly above the rock cone derived in accordance
with Clause 2.3 and Figure 1. In case the ultimate uplift resistance is controlled
by the total effective weight of the rock cone and the soil column directly above
the rock cone, the allowable uplift resistance shall be limited by 50% of the total
effective weight of the rock cone and the soil column directly above the rock
cone.
2.2.1. Allowable bond stress between rock and concrete/grout for piles
The presumed allowable values of bond or friction between rock and

concrete/grout of the pile are given below:

Presumed allowable bond
or friction between rock
Description of rock and concrete/grout (kPa)
Pile Type
(granite and volcanic) Under Under
transient permanent
tension tension
Grade II or better rock with total core
recovery greater than 95% for any one RSSHP,
metre within the rock mass and Minipiles and
minimum uniaxial compressive Large 700 350
strength (UCS) not less than 50 MPa diameter
(equivalent point load index strength bored piles
PLI50 not less than 2 MPa)
Grade III or better rock with total core
recovery greater than 85% for any one RSSHP and
700 350
metre within the rock mass and Minipiles
minimum uniaxial compressive
strength (UCS) not less than 25 MPa Large
(equivalent point load index strength diameter 500 250
PLI50 not less than 1 MPa) bored piles
Notes: (i) Concrete/grout shall have a minimum cube strength of 30 MPa at 28
days.
(ii) The point load index strength of rock quoted is the equivalent value
for 50 mm diameter cores.
(iii) The rock socket shall be formed in granite or volcanic rock.
(iv) No deduction is required on the presumed allowable bond or friction
between rock and concrete/grout when concreting/grouting under
water.
2.2.2. Allowable bond stress between grout and steel H-pile of RSSHP
The maximum allowable average bond stress between grout and steel H-
pile shall be 0.48 MPa for grout having minimum cube strength of 30MPa
at 28 days when the shear bars detail shown in Annex “E” of GS section
5 is applied. No deduction is required on this maximum allowable average
bond stress when grouting under water.
2.2.3. Allowable bond stress between concrete/grout and reinforcement of
minipiles and large diameter bored pile
The maximum allowable average bond stress between concrete/grout and

reinforcement for ribbed steel reinforcing bars in Grade 500 shall not
exceed 0.8MPa for concrete/grout having minimum cube strength of
30MPa at 28 days. No deduction is required on this maximum allowable
average bond stress when concreting/grouting under water.
2.2.4. Allowable axial working stress of steel H-pile sections
The maximum allowable axial working stress of steel H-pile sections

shall be 45% of the yield stress.
2.2.5. Allowable axial working stress of reinforcement.
The maximum allowable axial working stress of reinforcement shall not

exceed 225 MPa for ribbed steel reinforcing bars in Grade 500.
2.2.6. The number of steel reinforcing bars for a minipile shall not be more than
5 with bar diameter not exceeding 50mm.
2.3 Assessment of the effective weight of the rock cone and soil column
For single or group of closely-spaced piles (i.e. with overlapping rock cone/soil
column) that derive the ultimate uplift resistance from rock socket, the
configuration of the rock cone/soil column as given in Figure 1 shall be used, and
the assessment of the effective weight of the rock cone and soil column shall be
based on the following assumptions:
(a) The half angle of the rock cone at the toe of the pile shall not exceed 30
degree measuring from the vertical.
(b) Only the column of overburden soil directly above the rock cone shall be
considered, and the soil friction at the vertical face of such soil column above
the rock cone shall be ignored.
(c) Effective weight of the rock cone and the soil column shall be adopted. Any
part of the rock cone or soil column falling outside the site boundary shall
be ignored.
(d) For a group of closely-spaced piles subjected to tension, overlapping effect

shall be considered when assessing the volume of rock/soil cone to be used
for resisting the combined uplift force.
(e) For a group of piles with same allowable uplift resistance of individual piles,
checking of rock/soil cone failure of individual pile is not necessary when
the group effect has been considered as stated in (d) above.
(f) Where the allowable uplift resistance of individual piles within a pile group
are not the same, checking of rock/soil cone failure of individual pile is
required. The effective weight of the overlapping part of rock cones between
piles may be distributed to each pile on a pro-rata basis according to the
allowable uplift resistance of the individual piles.

Figure 1 - Configuration of rock cone/soil column for rock socketed piles
3.0 Steel ‘H’ piles in granular soil
The allowable/ultimate uplift resistance of individual pile may be derived from and
shall not exceed the least of Clause 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3 of this Particular Specification. In
addition, the ultimate uplift resistance of individual piles shall not exceed the value as
derived from Clause 3.4 of this Particular Specification. In case the ultimate uplift
resistance is controlled by the total effective weight of the soil cone/soil column, the
allowable uplift resistance shall be limited by 50% of the total effective weight of the
soil cone/soil column.
3.1 The allowable uplift resistance of individual pile shall not exceed the allowable
axial force for the steel ‘H’ pile section. The maximum allowable working
stress of steel ‘H’ pile section shall be 30% of the yield stress. The ultimate
uplift resistance of pile shall be taken as 2 times the allowable uplift resistance of
pile.
3.2 The allowable and ultimate uplift resistance of individual pile under transient
tension loads
Piles in granular soil may derive the uplift resistance from the frictional
resistance between the surface of the pile and the soil along the pile depth. The
perimeter of the Steel ‘H’ pile for uplift resistance assessment shall be taken as 2
x (breath + depth) of the H section. The allowable and ultimate uplift resistance
of steel ‘H’ piles under transient tension loads may be assessed by one of the
following methods:
(a) Uniform shaft friction method
A uniform allowable shaft friction of not greater than 10 kPa may be used
for soil strata with SPT N values not less than ten. The ultimate uplift
resistance of pile shall be taken as 2 times the allowable uplift resistance of
pile.
(b) Effective stress method (or commonly known as the β-Method)
τs = β σv', but not exceeding 120kPa
where τs = ultimate uplift resistance under transient tension

β = shaft resistance coefficient
σv' = mean vertical effective stress (kPa)
For steel ‘H’ piles in granular soil, β typically ranges from 0.1 to 0.4.

Verification by trial piles should be required unless the criteria for the soil
parameters set out below are all complied with and τs is limited by not
exceeding 60 kPa.
Soil parameters adopted in design Criteria

SPT N-values not less than 20
Density not exceeding 20 kN/m3
Effective density not exceeding 10 kN/m3
β-value not exceeding 0.2
(c) Empirical method by correlation with SPT N-values.
τs = 1.5N, but not exceeding 120kPa

where τs = ultimate uplift resistance under transient tension
N = uncorrected mean SPT value in the soil strata where shaft
resistance is being mobilized
Justification by trial piles should generally be required. However,

verification by trial piles may be waived if τs is taken as 50% of the
recommended value, i.e. τs = 0.75N, but not exceeding 60 kPa.
For method (c), before commencement of pile installation, additional drill

holes shall be carried out to obtain sufficient information for determination
of SPT N-values. The additional drill holes shall be in sufficient number
such that any pile tip shall not be more than 5m away from the nearest drill
hole. This predrilling shall be carried out by an independent Ground
Investigation Contractor from the List of Approved Suppliers of Materials
and Specialist Contractors for Public Works – Ground Investigation Field
Work Category. The Contractor shall bear the cost and time of the required
additional drill holes. Submit two copies of the drill-hole logs to the SO
within 3 days of the predrilling.
For method (b) or (c) in Clause 3.2, the allowable uplift resistance of the pile
under transient tension loads may be obtained by applying a factor of safety to
the ultimate uplift resistance of the pile under transient tension loads. The applied
factor of safety should be taken not less than 2.

3.3 The allowable and ultimate uplift resistance of individual pile under permanent
tension loads
The allowable and ultimate uplift resistance of individual pile under permanent
tension loads shall be taken as:
(a) 100% of the allowable and ultimate uplift resistance calculated in

accordance with method (a) in Clause 3.2; or
(b) 50% of the allowable and ultimate uplift resistance calculated in accordance
with method (b) or (c) in Clause 3.2.
3.4 Assessment of the effective weight of the soil cone/soil column
For a group of closely-spaced piles (i.e. with overlapping soil cone/soil column)
that derive the ultimate uplift resistance from friction in granular soil, the
configuration of the soil cone/soil column as given in Figure 2 may be used, and
the assessment of the effective weight of the soil cone/soil column should be
based on the following assumptions:
(a) For single pile subjected to tension, checking on soil cone failure is not
required.
(b) For soil with an SPT N-value of not less than 30, the angle of dilation of the
soil cone shall not exceed 1 in 4 (i.e. approximate 15 degree). For soil with
an SPT N-value of less than 30, the angle of dilation of the soil cone shall
be taken as zero.
(c) Skin friction on the face of the soil cone/soil column shall be ignored.
(d) Effective weight of the soil cone/soil column shall be adopted. Any part of
the soil cone/soil column falling outside the site boundary shall be ignored.
(e) For a group of closely-spaced piles with same allowable uplift resistance of
individual piles, overlapping effect of the soil cones shall be considered
when assessing the volume of soil cone/soil column to be used for resisting
the combined uplift force.
(f) Where the allowable uplift resistance of individual piles within a pile group
are not the same, checking of soil cone failure of individual pile is required.
The effective weight of the overlapping part of soil cones and columns
between piles may be distributed to each pile on a pro rata basis according
to the allowable uplift resistance of the individual piles.
Figure 2 - Configuration of soil cone/soil column for group of closely-

spaced friction piles in soil
4.0 Pile Head Details
The pile head and pile cap connection shall be modified and be designed to transmit
the maximum pile loads on both tension and compression for the approval of the SO.
5.0 Tension Loading Test
Static loading tests are required to justify the tension capacity of piles, other than large
diameter bored piles. Should tension piles be proposed, the contractor shall bear the
cost and time of the required tests.
The SO may order not less than 1% of nos. of piles installed of each Ra (minimum one
number or more piles for each Ra), other than large diameter bored piles, to be load
tested to twice the Ra. The maximum test load should not result in the test pile being
stressed beyond the yield stress, and in no case shall the test load exceed Ru.
The pile should be load tested at the cut-off level with no allowance for group effect.
Loading tests of piles shall be carried out by a Testing Firm employed direct by the
Employer. The Contractor shall co-ordinate the works with the Testing Firm and
comply with the requirements as stated in Clause 5.29 of the GS.
Notwithstanding GS Clause 5.29(i)(b)(ii), reaction piles may be used for tension

loading test, the Contractor shall provide and install reaction piles and associated
temporary works with adequate stability and safety as approved by SO. The resistance
of the reaction pile system shall be at least 1.15 times the maximum test load and shall
be placed such that the load centroid matches the centre of test pile. To minimize
interaction effects, the reaction piles should be located as far from the test pile as
practicable. The reaction pile should be at least 3 test pile diameters, or 2 m, whichever
is larger, from the test pile, measured centre to centre. Working piles may be adopted
as reaction piles for tension loading tests, however the testing loads as imposed on the
reaction piles should not be greater than the design pile capacity of the working piles.
Should reaction pad be proposed for tension loading tests, the reaction pads should be
of sufficient plan dimensions to transfer the reaction loads to the ground without
settling at a rate that would cause difficulty in maintaining the applied test loads and
the ground should be adequately strong. The Contractor shall provide and erect the
reaction pads with adequate stability and safety as approved by SO. The reaction pads
should be located as far from the test pile as possible, and the Contractor shall submit
proposal for SO’s approval to assess the interaction effects.
Should the Contractor design the pile by adopting a Ra less than the maximum value
allowed in this particular specification, the reduced Ra shall be used for the purpose
of tension loading test.

The test should be deemed to be unsatisfactory if any one of the following conditions
applies:
(a) the maximum extension at the head of the pile during the test exceeds the elastic
extension (PL/AE) of the net length of the pile plus 4 mm;
(b) when the rate of recovery after the removal of the maximum test load is less than
0.1 mm/hour observed in a period of not less than 15 minutes, the residual
extension at the head of the pile exceeds the greater of 4 mm and 25% of the
maximum pile head extension during the test; or
(c) there is structural failure in the test pile.
In calculating the elastic axial extension of minipile or RSSHP, the following criteria
shall be adopted:
(d) the contribution from cement grout shall be ignored; and
(e) the contribution from steel casing if used shall be considered.


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Particular Specification for Jacked Steel H-piles

Pmax - maximum jacking force applied to the pile during installation.

WL - allowable load capacity.

3.0 Design Submissions

4.0 Materials and Workmanship of H-pile Section

Structural Engineering Branch, Arch SD Page 1 of 7 File code: SEI0708(Rev1).doc

5.0 Design Requirements

5.1 Loading Capacity

5.2 Design Assumptions

Unless specified otherwise by the SO, no corrosion protection to the jacked

The use of tension piles and raking piles is not permitted.

5.3 Settlement Analysis

6.0 Installation of Jacked Piles

6.1 Maximum Jacking Force

Structural Engineering Branch, Arch SD Page 2 of 7 File code: SEI0708(Rev1).doc

6.2.1 The hydraulic jack shall be calibrated by an independent firm accredited

The calibration shall be carried out in the presence of the SO with at

6.2.2 Re-calibration of the hydraulic jack at a force of 2.2WL shall be carried

6.3 Method Statement for Pile Installation

(a) Sequence of jacking of piles over the whole site;

6.4 Machinery for Jacking of Piles

(a) Allowable maximum capacity of the jacking machine;

6.5 Monitoring of Jacking Force

The applied jacking force shall be continuously monitored during pile

6.6 Verification Test of Jacking Force

At least 10% of the piles (minimum five piles) shall be subjected to a

6.7 Control Panel of Jacking Machine

6.8 Overcoming Underground Obstructions to Piles

In case pre-boring is necessary to overcome underground obstructions, soil and

6.9 Prevention of Pile Buckling

Structural Engineering Branch, Arch SD Page 4 of 7 File code: SEI0708(Rev1).doc

6.11 Trial Pile

6.13 Sufficiency of Design and Construction

7.0 Piling Records

 Pile reference number

8.0 Pile Spacing and Tolerances

Structural Engineering Branch, Arch SD Page 6 of 7 File code: SEI0708(Rev1).doc

9.0 Loading Test

10.0 Failure of Loading Test

Structural Engineering Branch, Arch SD Page 7 of 7 File code: SEI0708(Rev1).doc

2.0 Design Requirements

2.1 Design Assumptions

The presumed allowable friction between bedrock and concrete are

Description of rock Presumed allowable bond or

The use of presumptive values in Table 1 does not preclude the

The presumed allowable maximum bearing pressure of piles on bedrock

* Notwithstanding GS Clause 5.04(i), the average compressive stress of

* The average compressive stress of concrete pile shaft imposed by the

* delete as appropriate (reference should be made to the Guidelines on the Design of

2.2 Bell-out at Pile Base

Structural Engineering Branch, Arch. SD Page 2 of 5 File code:SEI0207(Rev3).doc

Reinforcement should be provided as shown in Fig. 1.

2.4 Drilling before Construction

Site borings to pre-determine the piles founding levels shall be carried

4.0 Design Submissions

Structural Engineering Branch, Arch. SD Page 3 of 5 File code:SEI0207(Rev3).doc

5.0 Other Requirements

Unless otherwise specified, requirements related to Large Diameter Bored Piles

Structural Engineering Branch, Arch. SD Page 4 of 5 File code:SEI0207(Rev3).doc

2.0 Design Requirements