Cost-benefit Analysis of Bi-directional Load Testing for Drilled Shafts and Performance of Advancing Civil Infrastructure Practice in the United States
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The advancement of civil infrastructure practice increasingly relies on reliable foundation testing methods to ensure structural safety and cost efficiency. This study examines the cost-benefit analysis of bi-directional load testing for drilled shafts and its impact on advancing civil infrastructure practice in the United States. The specific objectives include: (i) investigating the effect of Osterberg Cell (O-Cell) bi-directional load test placement on technical and structural performance, and (ii) analysing the impact of AFT (Applied Foundations Testing)-Cell bi-directional static load test arrangement on economic and operational performance. A quantitative research design was adopted, and 20 drilled shaft test data were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, and benefit-cost analysis with SPSS version 25. Findings indicated that AFT-Cell significantly reduced settlement (p = 0.02) while both methods provided comparable maximum load capacity. Economically, AFT-Cell yielded higher net benefits and time savings (BCR = 1.50) compared to O-Cell (BCR = 1.40). The study concludes that AFT-Cell offers superior technical reliability and marginally higher operational value. It recommends prioritizing AFT-Cell for critical projects while considering O-Cell where budget constraints exist.
Institution: University of the Cumberlands
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7124170469
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