Study on the uplift bearing capacity of belled piles

Abstract

In this study, a three-dimensional finite element analysis of the uplift bearing capacity (R) of belled piles is performed using ABAQUS finite element software. The reliability of the numerical calculation is validated. On this basis, the uplift load (P)–displacement (δ) distribution characteristics of the pile shaft under vertical and oblique loadings are analyzed. Additionally, the effects of the elastic modulus (E), cohesion (c) and angle of internal friction (φ) of the soil on the R of the pile shaft are also analyzed. The results show that a vertical P is gradually transferred from the top of a belled pile to its tip. Under a vertical P, the R of a belled pile increases as the E and coefficient of c uniformity (k) of the soil increase and is relatively insignificantly affected by the φ of the soil. Under an oblique P, the R of a belled pile decreases as the inclination (θ) of P increases and increases as the E and φ of the soil increase. As θ increases, the effect of k on the R of a belled pile gradually weakens.