The effect of spudcan footprints on the vertical bearing capacity of adjacent pile foundations

Abstract

ABSTRACT It is well recognised that footprints are formed during the spudcan insertion process, which can have a negative impact on adjacent pile foundations.This research presents a simplified three-dimensional finite element model to analyse the effect of footprints on the vertical bearing capacity of adjacent piles in clay. The soil parameters around the footprint were obtained via a comparative analysis of the results yielded by the hole-edge stress theory, a triaxial unloading shear test and an unloading state model test. Based on the simplified three-dimensional finite element model, the skin friction resistance changes of piles under different footprint depths, footprint diameters, and dimensionless distances L/D were calculated. The results showed that the reduction rate of the skin friction resistance of the pile decreases with increasing L/D and increases with increasing footprint diameter and footprint depth. .