Factors influencing the critical piles length in reinforced slope

Abstract

In this research, the performance of a homogeneous slope reinforced with one row of piles is studied using coupled numerical analysis and the method of shear strength reduction as implemented in the finite element analysis software, ABAQUS. Parametric studies are performed by changing geometric and strength parameters such as piles head conditions, piles location and the soil cohesion to assess their influence on the slope stability. For each of these parameters, the safety factor of the slope and the piles critical length was assessed. The results indicates the performance level of piles with different head conditions will not be similar; so that hinged and fixed heads are the most effective and cause the piles critical length to reduce, whilst free heads are less effective. The optimum location of the piles depends on their length, but regardless of the piles head type, the maximum increase of the safety factor is achieved when the piles are located in the mid-section of the slope. In addition to this, various levels of soil cohesion do not affect the piles optimum location, whilst cause significant changes in their critical length and increase rate of safety factor.