Pile length optimization by load-transfer method

Abstract

Reasonable selection of the design capacity value of the pile is very important in optimizing construction costs. However, this is an extremely complex job, requiring in-depth understanding in loadtransfer mechanism of pile. By using the load-transfer method of Nanda and Patra (2014), the article conducted a back analysis of the results of a pile load test with strain guages for a 83.3 m long pile to clarify this mechanism. Apply the results obtained from the analysis on another pile with a length of 73.3m to investigate variations in the load-transfer mechanism when the pile length changes. Based on that understanding, the article provides important recommendations in choosing a reasonable pile length to achieve economic efficiency. This is a practical method, both indepth and simple enough, so that engineers have a good enough tool to be more confident in their design work.

Keywords: Pile length optimization; load-transfer method; loadtransfer mechanism of pile; tangent modulus method; incremental rigidity method.