An Experimental Study On Inclinedly Loaded Belled Piles Embedded in Sand

Abstract

This research focuses on the behavior and load-carrying capacity of partially tapered belled pile foundations under inclined loading conditions. The study investigates the performance of model aluminum piles with different configurations, including equal section piles and partially tapered belled piles, in both experimental and Plaxis 3D FEM analyses. The parameters considered include the length to diameter ratio, relative density of the soil, tapering angles and spacing to diameter ratio. A total of 336 tests were conducted on model piles with various configurations, including 1 x 1, 1 x 2, and 1 x 3 groups of piles with spacing to diameter ratios of 3, 4, and 5. The piles were tested under a constant inclined loading of 67.5° with two different relative densities (70% and 39.5%). The Plaxis 3D FEM analysis provided insights into the maximum load-carrying capacity of different pile configurations. The best results were obtained for the 1 x 3 configuration with a 4Db spacing to diameter ratio. In the Plaxis analysis, this configuration carried a load of 9.50kN in a relative density of 70% and 8.40kN in a relative density of 39.5%. The experimental results showed similar trends, with a load of 9.20kN in a relative density of 70% and 8.10kN in a relative density of 39.5% for a 5-degree tapering angle. newlineComparing the experimental and Plaxis analysis results, there were minor differences in the load-carrying capacity values. The percentage difference between the two analyses ranged within an acceptable range, indicating the reliability of the Plaxis 3D FEM modeling. The variations can be attributed to factors such as material behavior assumptions, boundary conditions, and uncertainties in the experimental setup. Overall, the research provides valuable insights into the load-carrying capacity of partially tapered belled pile foundations under inclined loading. The results highlight the significance of considering the length to diameter ratio, relative density, and tapering angles in the design and performance assessmen