Bearing capacity of tapered piles in clay under undrained condition

Abstract

ABSTRACT Based on the lower bound limit analysis, the bearing capacity of a tapered pile in clay is computed. The numerical analysis is performed for various parameters such as embedment length to base diameter ratio (Lp /D 0), taper angle (β), a factor m for the linear variation of cohesion, and adhesion factors (αb and αs ). The results are presented in the form of bearing capacity factors Nct b, Nct s and Nct which represent resistances due to pile base, shaft and total load carrying capacity, respectively. The factor Nct b is found to be decreasing, while the factors Nct s and Nct are increasing, due to an increase in β. The increases in Nct s and Nct are found to be significant for smaller β (between 1–3°) and larger Lp /D 0. The bearing capacity factors are significantly affected by undrained cohesion. It is expected that the results of the present analysis will be helpful to the practicing engineers.