New modelling of models for dynamic behavior of a pile foundation

Abstract

Demands for the testing of large prototypes in geotechnical engineering are increasing, while restrictions are recognized, such as costs and limited scale of testing facility. To resolve such demands and restrictions, Iai et al. (2005) proposed a scaling law by combining the scaling law for centrifuge testing with the one for 1-g dynamic-model testing. They call it the "generalized scaling law" in dynamic centrifuge modelling. The objective of the present study is to investigate and point out issues on the applicability of the scaling law through the technique of "new" modelling of models for dynamic behavior of pile foundations in both dry and saturated sand ground. Through comparison in the prototype scale, the applicability of the scaling law to bending moments was confirmed on the condition that centrifugal acceleration was more than 4.9 g for dry condition, and 14.4 g for saturated condition of 1/100 scale model.