Abstract #
This paper presents a semi-analytical procedure used to compute the settlement and normal force distribution of axially loaded bored piles constructed in the tropical soils of Brasília, Brazil. The study involves experimental field tests on piles and numerical simulations using GEO4 software. The paper demonstrates that with well-established soil parameters and sound theoretical models, it is possible to simulate the in-situ behavior of bored piles with reasonable accuracy. The research highlights the effects of different construction procedures on the load-settlement behavior of these piles.
Technical Relevance #
This document is highly relevant for geotechnical engineers working with deep foundations in tropical soils. The combined use of experimental data and numerical analysis provides insights into the behavior of bored piles under different construction techniques. The findings are particularly valuable for professionals involved in foundation design in regions with similar geotechnical conditions.
Target Audience #
The document is intended for geotechnical engineers, civil engineers, researchers, and professionals focused on deep foundation design and analysis. It is especially useful for those working in tropical regions where soils present unique challenges such as laterization and high collapsibility.
Software and Methodology #
The numerical analysis was conducted using the GEO4 software by FINE Software Company. The methodology involves a semi-analytical approach where the pile is discretized into finite elements, and the soil-pile interface is modeled using nonlinear soil springs. The analysis includes the calculation of settlement and normal force distribution along the pile shaft, with parameters such as Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio, and lateral earth pressure being crucial to the model’s accuracy.
Process Description #
The paper begins with an introduction to the geotechnical characteristics of the site in Brasília, followed by a description of the field tests conducted on two types of piles: mechanically bored and root cast-in-place piles. The numerical model is then detailed, including the assumptions made and the parameters used. The results are compared with the experimental load-settlement curves to validate the model’s accuracy.
Main Findings #
The study finds that the numerical model using GEO4 software can reasonably predict the load-settlement behavior of bored piles in tropical soils. The results highlight the importance of accurately modeling the soil-pile interface and the effects of different construction techniques on pile performance. The study also emphasizes the need for site-specific soil parameter calibration to achieve accurate predictions.
Practical Applications #
The findings from this study are directly applicable to the design and analysis of bored pile foundations in tropical regions. Engineers can use the insights gained to improve the accuracy of their numerical models and make informed decisions about construction techniques to optimize pile performance.
Limitations and Considerations #
The document acknowledges that the results are based on specific soil conditions found in Brasília, and the methodology may need to be adapted for use in other regions with different geotechnical properties. Additionally, the accuracy of the numerical model depends heavily on the quality of the input data, particularly soil parameters such as Young’s modulus and lateral earth pressure.
Conclusions #
The paper concludes that the semi-analytical procedure using GEO4 software is a valuable tool for predicting the behavior of bored piles in tropical soils. The study demonstrates the potential for this approach to be used in practical engineering applications, particularly for foundation design in challenging geotechnical environments. The research underscores the importance of integrating field data with numerical analysis to achieve reliable predictions.
Related Resources #
Further reading includes studies on the behavior of deep foundations in other tropical regions, as well as research on the use of numerical modeling in geotechnical engineering. Additional resources on the calibration of soil parameters for accurate numerical analysis can provide deeper insights into optimizing foundation design.
📥 Download LINK
