Experimental investigation of inclined compressive loading on a piled raft foundation

Abstract

Transmission towers, skyscrapers, and offshore buildings have inclined compressive and uplift loads on their foundations. In addition to vertical loads, storage tanks and bridges face large horizontal loads. Pile and raft footings are used to increase the foundation system's load-carrying capacity and reduce vertical and lateral deflections. The behavior of piles and pile groups under inclined loads was investigated experimentally considering square raft, taking into account factors like pile length, soil density, and pile spacing. The results show that increasing pile length, pile spacing, and soil density enhance bearing capacity and decrease settlement. Piled rafts with L/d ratios of 10, 15, and 20 carry 39.62%, 43.62%, and 63.29% more than raft foundations. Load-bearing capacity increases 21% from 4d to 5d and 32% from 3d to 5d. The analysis of this model demonstrates that an improved pile and raft design in the pile-raft system enhances its efficiency. This foundation system offers a viable alternative for large constructions, potentially making it a more cost-effective option.