3D Numerical Response of a Single Pile Under Uplift Loading Embedded in Sand

Abstract

In this study, the uplift behavior of a single pile has been investigated in sand, numerically. The pile used in the analyses is in circular shape in 25 mm diameter. The investigated parameters are embedment ratio of pile (L/D = 8, 12, and 16), material of pile (steel, aluminum, and delrin) and relative density of sand (RD = 30%, 50%, and 80%). For this purpose, a series of finite element analyses have been carried out by using Plaxis 3D. The results of analyses have been compared with the theoretical methods proposed for a single pile embedded in the loose sand. According to the results of both methods, the uplift capacity in the loose sand obtained from theoretical method gives a good agreement with that of present numerical analysis, and all investigated parameters affect significantly the uplift behavior of the pile. Moreover, the uplift capacity increases with the increase of the embedment ratio (L/D) and relative density of sand (RD). Additionally, the capacity of steel pile is more than aluminum and delrin piles.