Nonlinear Response of Single Piles in Sand Subjected to Lateral Loads using khmax Approach

Abstract

This paper presents results of analysis of full-scale pile load test data of 14 piles embedded in either loose or medium dense sands. The analysis was performed using two methods, p–y curve approach and a more recently developed khmax approach. Comparison of the results obtained using both the methods is also presented. A step-by-step analysis procedure is presented for predicting lateral load deflection response of single piles in sand using the khmax approach. The results presented show that the khmax approach has promise over the p–y curve approach because of its simplicity and the fact that it provides upper- and lower-bound curves, which are valuable guides to making engineering decisions. For loose sands, a new range of khmax values is recommended to better predict the lateral load–deflection response of single piles.