Uplift capacity of pile groups embedded in sands: Predictions and performance

Abstract

The paper pertains to the development of a simple semi-empirical method of analysis for predicting the uplift capacity of pile groups embedded in sand assuming an inverted truncated rectangular pyramidal failure surface. Various pile and soil parameters such as length, diameter of the pile, group configuration, spacing of the piles and the soil properties such as density, angle of internal friction and the pile-soil interface friction angle having direct influence on the uplift capacity of the pile group are incorporated in the analysis. The predicted values of uplift capacity of pile groups with different configuration and length to embedment ratio are then compared with model test results carried out as a part of the present investigation and also with the values reported in literature. The predictions are found to be in good agreement with the measured values validating the developed method of analysis.