Soil Arch Analysis of Piled Embankment by a Modified 3D Model and Field Experiments

Abstract

Piled embankments have been widely used in road engineering. A unique mechanical behavior which is called soil arching effect in piled embankments is a key factor in load distribution. In this study, a modified 3D finite element model is presented to analyze the soil arching effect in piled embankments. The interaction among the pile, subsoil and embankment fill is simulated by springs with various stiffness values. A field test is conducted to get the actual engineering data. Based on the results comparison, several contrast numerical analyses are performed by changing the pile spacing. The critical maximum and minimum heights of the soil arch can be clearly obtained via the numerical model and the critical height of soil arching of the numerical model is consistent with that of Hewlett’s theory. The numerical model is not only easily implemented but time-saving, which is a new method for researchers to analyze soil arching effect in piled embankments.