Prediction of Bearing Capacity of Pile From Static Load Test Using Numerical Analysis

Abstract

The foundation is a component of building construction that supports and distributes the load of the building on the ground. When the soil strength is insufficient to support the overburden weight of any building, pile foundations are often used. The bearing capacity of foundations is among the most crucial aspects to take into consideration. Every structure must determine the soil's carrying capability for a particular type of foundation. Load settlement behavior is frequently required to determine a pile's bearing capacity. Static load test is often performed to identify pile load settlement behavior because it is the most common kind of pile load test. In this research, an analysis will be conducted on the load settlement behavior of a pile foundation through the utilization of a Finite Element Modeling (FEM) program called PLAXIS 3D. The Hardening Soil model and the Mohr-Coulomb model will be used to predict the load-settlement behavior of the pile foundation using data from in-situ load tests. Relevant laboratory tests and empirical equations will be used to estimate the required soil parameters, such as cohesion, angle of friction, and others. Here, the simulated load-settlement responses of both soil models will be compared to determine the best-suited model. Finally, this research aims at reducing the time required for testing and finding a cost-effective solution. Also, the generated load settlement curve will be further employed to assess the bearing capacity using a variety of techniques, and conclusions will be made accordingly.