General Contractor Practice Exam

What is the minimum size of a steel pipe pile that can be capped off?

1. 6 inches

2. 8 inches

3. 10 inches

4. 12 inches

The correct answer is: 8 inches

The minimum size of a steel pipe pile that can be capped off is typically 8 inches. This size ensures structural integrity and provides sufficient capacity to support the loads expected to be transmitted through the cap. Capping a pile involves placing a flat top on the pile, which helps distribute loads evenly and provides a solid footing for further construction elements, such as beams or columns. Steel pipe piles are used in various applications, particularly in deep foundation systems, where they need to penetrate through weak soil layers to reach stronger strata. The 8-inch specification allows for adequate thickness of material, ensuring that the pile can handle forces such as compression, tension, and lateral loads effectively. While smaller pipe sizes may technically be capped, they may not provide the same structural reliability or capacity needed for most construction applications. Larger sizes are often used for additional strength and load-bearing capacity, but when considering the minimum requirement, 8 inches is the accepted standard.