Pile behaviour — theory and application : Geotechnique V39, N3, Sept 1989, P365–415

Abstract

This paper discusses the application of theory to the analysis of pile foundation behaviour under axial loading. A classification system is suggested for pile analysis and design procedures, based on the rigour of the underlying theory. It is shown that a number of the analyses in use have a common underlying theoretical basis founded on the boundary element method and that such methods give solutions which are consistent with those from other methods such as the finite element method. The main characteristics of pile behaviour are reviewed for single piles and pile groups subjected to static loading, cyclic loading, and to loading arising from externally-imposed soil movements. Correlations are then summarized for the geotech-nical parameters required for the prediction of axial pile behaviour. Using characteristic values of these parameters, design charts are developed for the load capacity and settlement of piles and pile groups. Finally, three case studies are described which demonstrate the sensitivi...