A Simplified Method to Predict the Shock Load on Crane Wire to Hang Hammer During Pile Running

Abstract Pile running, the uncontrolled fall of a pile due to the collapse of a hard soil layer over softer soils, is a major constructability risk during pile driving operations. This is especially the case for the long and large diameter piles driven with heavy hammer. Unexpected pile running may cause loss of the pile, damage to the jacket, damage to the crane due to overload or even hammer loss. This paper discusses about shock load on cranes due to pile running and its estimation using simplified method based on a real project record. The method can help to develop dedicated plans for pile driving if pile running is predicted in pile drivability analysis in future projects. At the same time some remedial measures to reduce shock load on crane wire are included and discussed.