Concrete QA for Piles – Sampling and Testing Checklist

Definition: Concrete QA for Piles guides site engineers and inspectors through on-site sampling—slump/flow, temperature, and cylinders/cubes—and complete ID traceability during pile concreting, excluding mix approvals.

On-site sampling for piles: slump/flow, temperature, strength specimens.
Prevents defective piles by verifying fresh properties and traceability.
Clear steps with tools, tolerances, photos, and recorded evidence.
Interactive, commentable, export-ready checklist secured with a QR code.

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Checklist

Concrete QA for Piles ensures your pile concrete testing is performed consistently and traceably during deep foundation pours. This checklist focuses on fresh concrete sampling for bored piles, CFA piles, and drilled shafts, covering slump or flow measurements, temperature checks, and casting cylinders or cubes. It prioritizes accurate pile concrete sampling at the right time and location, proper compaction or non-compaction methods, and end-to-end identification of pile ID, truck/batch ID, and specimen ID. By keeping scope tight—on-site sampling and testing only—it avoids scope creep into mix approvals while reducing risks like segregation, blockages, excessive washout, or understrength sections. The result is reliable evidence that each pile pour met the approved project specifications and authority requirements, backed by photographs, readings, and signatures. Use this as a live tool: tick items in sequence, capture comments and photos, and export your complete record as PDF/Excel from the embedded QR code for authenticated sharing.

Confirm representative sampling at the correct time and location during pile concreting, then measure slump or flow and concrete temperature with calibrated tools. Capture clear photos and precise readings to prevent segregation, blockages, cold joints, and weak sections within deep foundation elements.
Produce dependable compressive strength results by properly casting, labeling, and curing cylinders or cubes, then maintaining chain-of-custody to the laboratory. Every specimen links to specific pile and truck IDs, ensuring full traceability without engaging in design approvals or mix acceptance processes.
Interactive online checklist with tick, comment, and export features secured by QR code, enabling real-time collaboration, photo uploads, and digital signatures. Generate instant PDFs/Excel, align with approved project specifications, and archive authenticated records for audits and turnover packages.

Pre-Pour Preparation

1. Confirm the scope covers on-site QA sampling/testing for piles only (exclude mix approvals); review approved project specifications and authority requirements for target slump/flow and temperature limits. Acceptance: target ranges identified and logged. Evidence: note in checklist with spec reference and supervisor initials.
2. Verify calibration/condition of slump cone, base plate, flow spread plate/table, tamping rod, thermometer (0–50 °C), and timer. Acceptance: instruments within calibration validity; no dents or contamination. Evidence: photos of calibration stickers and tool inspection checklist.
3. Prepare clean, damp sampling bucket/scoop and wiping cloths; set a flat, level, non-absorbent surface for testing near the pile. Acceptance: equipment visibly clean and surface level checked with a bubble level. Evidence: photos of setup and level reading.
4. Pre-label specimen molds and tags with pile ID, grid/chainage, truck/batch ID, date/time, and tester initials using a waterproof marker. Acceptance: labels legible and consistent across molds and paperwork. Evidence: photo of labeled molds and tag close-ups.
5. Brief the crew on sampling location and access considering tremie or pump setup and spoil management. Acceptance: safe approach route and stable test area established. Evidence: toolbox-talk record and site photo showing designated test zone.

Sampling and Slump/Flow Testing

6. Collect a composite concrete sample from the point of discharge once flow is stable; avoid the first and last discharge portions. Acceptance: sample obtained promptly within project-specified time limits. Evidence: timestamped photos showing sampling point and bucket.
7. Perform the slump test using a clean cone and base plate; fill in equal layers, consolidate appropriately, lift vertically, and measure to the nearest 5 mm. Acceptance: slump within specified range per approved project specifications. Evidence: photo of slumped cone with steel rule reading.
8. If self-compacting concrete is supplied, conduct slump-flow: lift the cone and measure orthogonal spreads; observe edge stability and viscosity. Acceptance: average spread within specified range; no excessive segregation. Evidence: photos of spread with two diameter readings in mm and visual stability notes.
9. Measure concrete temperature in the fresh sample with a calibrated probe immersed adequately. Acceptance: temperature within project-specified limits; reading recorded to 0.5 °C. Evidence: close-up photo of thermometer display and logged value.
10. Visually assess the sample for signs of segregation, excessive bleeding, or abnormal air content indications (e.g., very harsh or sticky mix). Acceptance: fresh concrete exhibits uniform paste and aggregate distribution. Evidence: annotated photo; if issues found, raise a nonconformance record.
11. If slump/flow or temperature fall outside specified limits, notify the site superintendent immediately and pause placement in the affected pile section. Acceptance: corrective action agreed and recorded before resuming. Evidence: communication log and updated checklist notes.

Strength Specimens (Cylinders/Cubes)

12. Confirm required specimen type and size (e.g., cylinders 150×300 mm or cubes 150 mm/100 mm) and test ages per project specs. Acceptance: specimen schedule meets specified frequency. Evidence: completed sampling plan with number of sets and ages.
13. Prepare molds: clean, lightly oiled, and assembled square/plumb on a rigid surface. Acceptance: no leaks or warping; identification matches tags. Evidence: photo of prepared molds and oil application.
14. Fill molds using the correct method: rodding or vibration for conventional concrete; minimal disturbance for SCC. Strike off level. Acceptance: dense, void-free specimens with smooth, level tops. Evidence: photos during filling, compaction method noted, finished surface close-up.
15. Label each specimen immediately with permanent, waterproof markings and attach corresponding tags (pile ID, truck/batch ID, date/time, set number). Acceptance: full traceability on every piece. Evidence: label close-ups and checklist cross-reference.
16. Initial curing: cover specimens to prevent moisture loss and store in a protected curing box. Target 20 ± 2 °C if specified. Acceptance: temperature logged and stable; no drafts/sun exposure. Evidence: curing box photo with thermometer reading.
17. Arrange secure transport or handover to the laboratory with a completed chain-of-custody form. Acceptance: delivery within the time window defined by project specs. Evidence: signed lab receipt and transport log with times.

Traceability and Records

18. Record pile details: pile ID, location (grid/chainage), designed depth, and placement method (tremie/pump). Acceptance: all fields complete and consistent. Evidence: photo of pile marker and entry screenshot.
19. Capture truck ID, batch ticket number, arrival/start/end times, and admixture additions (if any) from the ticket and foreman. Acceptance: times aligned with test timestamps. Evidence: photo/scan of batch ticket and logged times.
20. Enter test results (slump/flow, temperature) with units, tolerances, and attachments. Acceptance: results clearly within/without specified limits and justified actions noted. Evidence: digital entries with photos linked to the pile record.
21. Generate a QR code for the pile’s QA record and affix a printed sticker to the curing box or specimen crate. Acceptance: code scans correctly to the record. Evidence: scan test screenshot and sticker photo.
22. Obtain digital signatures from the inspector and contractor representative following each truck’s tests. Acceptance: signatures dated and tied to the record. Evidence: signed checklist snapshot.

Post-Pour Verification

23. Verify test frequency coverage for the pour (e.g., first truck and as specified thereafter). Acceptance: checklist shows complete coverage for all trucks/segments. Evidence: coverage summary screenshot.
24. Issue the laboratory test request with specimen IDs, ages, and curing details; include the QR link. Acceptance: lab acknowledges receipt and schedule. Evidence: emailed request and lab confirmation.
25. Export the completed checklist and photos to PDF/Excel and file them in the project share. Acceptance: documents saved under correct folder structure and naming. Evidence: exported files and share link recorded.

Sampling at Pile Concreting: Timing and Location

Correct sampling for deep foundations depends on capturing concrete representative of what enters the pile. For tremie or pump placement, sample at the discharge stream once flow stabilizes, never from washout or the first/last discharge portions. Keep the test area level, dry around the base plate, and close enough to the pour to avoid temperature drift. Use a clean bucket and scoop; test promptly per approved project specifications and authority requirements. Align the sampling moment with operational steps—before lowering the tremie into the cage, during a steady pump stroke, or when a new truck begins contributing to the pile. Take clear photos of the sampling point and the setup to prove representativeness. If the mix looks unusual—sticky, harsh, or segregated—document it immediately. Good sampling practice reduces risks of blockages, tremie breaks, cold joints, or uneven placement, and it underpins every acceptance decision you will record for slump/flow, temperature, and strength specimens.

Sample after flow stabilizes; avoid first and last discharge.
Keep test surface flat, clean, and close to the pour.
Test promptly to limit temperature drift and moisture loss.
Photograph the sampling location and equipment condition.
Escalate immediately if visual segregation or bleeding appears.

Slump vs Flow: Methods, Acceptance, and Practical Cues

Choose the test that matches the mix and specification: conventional concretes use slump; self-compacting concretes use flow spread. For slump, ensure a clean cone and base, fill in equal layers, consolidate appropriately, then lift vertically and read to the nearest 5 mm. For flow, lift the cone, measure two perpendicular diameters, and judge edge stability. Record all readings with units and note the specified target and tolerance range. Observe workability cues: sticky mixes can mask low workability, while very wet mixes may hide segregation risk. If results fall outside the project-specified range, pause placement in the affected pile section and notify the superintendent for corrective action. Document nonconformances with photos, comments, and timestamps. These simple controls protect the pile from defects such as tremie seal loss, excessive washout, or honeycombing and provide defensible evidence for downstream strength results.

Match test to mix type: slump or flow spread.
Use calibrated tools; read in mm with clear photos.
Compare to project targets and tolerances before proceeding.
Pause and escalate if results are out of limits.
Record comments on edge stability and visual consistency.

Specimens, Temperature, and Curing Logistics for Deep Foundations

Temperature and specimen handling drive the credibility of compressive strength results. Measure concrete temperature at the sample with a calibrated probe; record to 0.5 °C and compare with specification limits. Cast cylinders or cubes per the required size and quantity, using the correct compaction method for conventional concrete and minimal disturbance for SCC. Label every specimen with pile and truck/batch IDs, date/time, and set number. Protect specimens from sun, wind, and vibration; use a curing box and target the temperature regime specified (commonly around 20 °C) until transfer. Maintain chain-of-custody to the laboratory and include a QR link to the digital record. These steps ensure results reflect the actual pile concrete, support timely decisions, and avoid disputes caused by mishandled samples or ambiguous identification.

Record temperature at sampling point to 0.5 °C.
Cast the correct number and size of specimens.
Label every specimen with full traceability IDs.
Shield from sun/wind; use a stable curing box.
Send with chain-of-custody and QR record link.

How to Use This Interactive Concrete QA for Piles Checklist

Preparation: assemble slump cone, base plate, flow plate, tamping rod, thermometer (0–50 °C), timer, sampling bucket, molds, tags, waterproof marker, curing box, chain-of-custody forms, and PPE (gloves, goggles, boots). Verify calibration dates and site access near the pile.
Open the checklist on your device and select the project, pile ID, and pour segment. Review the specification targets for slump/flow and temperature so the acceptance ranges are clear before trucks arrive.
Using the interactive checklist: start the session, tick items as you go, and attach photos of the sampling point, test readings, and labeled specimens. Add comments for observations, nonconformances, and actions taken.
Enter readings with units (mm, °C) and link them to truck/batch IDs. Generate a QR code for the record so physical specimens and curing boxes can be matched instantly on site.
When testing is complete, review the summary to confirm coverage and completeness. Export the record to PDF/Excel for distribution to the site team, consultant, and laboratory.
Sign-Off: obtain digital signatures from the inspector and contractor representative. Archive the signed record and photos in the project folder; verify that the QR code scans back to the finalized checklist.

Call to Action

Lena Miller Lena Miller

Jan 09, 2026

120

FAQ

Question: When should I take the concrete sample for a pile?

Sample once the discharge flow stabilizes and before significant delays occur, avoiding the first and last portions of discharge. Take it from the point of placement (pump line or tremie feed), not from washout or the truck chute. Test promptly per approved project specifications to prevent temperature drift and moisture loss affecting results.

Question: Slump or flow test for piles—how do I decide?

Use slump for conventional mixes that are not self-compacting. Use flow spread for self-compacting concrete, recording two perpendicular diameters and noting edge stability. Match the method to the approved project specifications and authority requirements. If you are unsure, confirm the intended workability test on the batch ticket and with the site engineer.

Question: How many cylinders or cubes should be made for each pile or truck?

Follow the approved project specifications for frequency and specimen type. A common approach is at least one set per truck or defined volume, with specified ages (e.g., 7 and 28 days). Record the plan in the checklist, label each specimen with full traceability, and send a chain-of-custody to the lab with the QR-linked record.

Question: What if the concrete temperature or slump/flow is outside limits?

Pause placement in the affected pile section, notify the superintendent, and take corrective action per approved project specifications and authority requirements. Document readings, photos, and decisions in the checklist. Do not proceed until results are within limits or a written instruction authorizes the next steps with mitigations.

Question: Where should I store and label specimens on site?

Keep specimens near the pour but protected from sun, wind, and vibration in a stable curing box. Label each piece immediately with pile ID, truck/batch ID, date/time, and set number. Place the generated QR code on the curing box or crate so the lab can scan and access the full record.