Uplift capacity of single piles: predictions and performance

Abstract

The paper pertains to the development of a simple semi-empirical model for predicting the uplift capacity of piles embedded in sand. Various pile and soil parameters such as length (L), diameter (d) of the pile and angle of friction (ϕ), soil–pile friction angle (δ) and unit weight (γ) of the soil which have direct influence on the uplift capacity of the pile are incorporated in the analysis. A comparative assessment of the ultimate uplift capacity of piles predicted by using the proposed theory and some of the available theories are made with respect to each other and with reference to the measured values obtained from model tests in the laboratory. For this purpose experimental data have been collected from the literature and also from model tests conducted as a part of the present investigation. The study shows the proposed model has an excellent potential in predicting the uplift capacity of piles embedded in sand that are consistent with model pile test results.