This document discusses pile caps and their construction. It contains several sections:
- An introduction to pile caps, which distribute loads from columns over piles.
- Reasons for using pile caps, such as stabilizing piles and transmitting loads to the ground.
- Advantages of precast pile caps like being made off-site and rapid construction.
- The pile driving process which involves excavation, lifting piles, and hammering them into the ground.
- How pile caps are constructed by cutting piles, forming, reinforcing, and pouring concrete.
- Potential issues like delays from rain and deformities or failures of improperly installed pile caps.