Load tests

Load tests are carried out on structural elements with the aim of experimentally verifying their deformation under operating actions. Commonly, these tests are carried out on floor or roof slabs, but they can also involve large beams (e.g. gyms, swimming pools, reinforced concrete beams on industrial building roofs, …) or other structural elements. Load tests can be carried out during construction before putting the structures into operation, to verify their compliance with the design forecasts, or they can be used as verification tests, to check the behaviour of an existing structural element, if required. The test consists of loading the structural element until the design action is reached. Using transducers of adequate accuracy, the displacements (deformations, rotations, …) of the tested element in specific locations during the loading/unloading cycles are measured as well as the applied load, noting any non-elastic behaviour or significant displacements residuals after unloading. Reference standard: ACI 437.2-22