Pile responses due to lateral soil movement of uniform and triangular profiles

Abstract

Model tests were conducted on vertically loaded single piles in sand subjected to either a uniform or a triangular profile of soil movement. Results of four tests are presented herein in the form of maximum bending moment (Mmax), shear force, and pile deflection profiles. The evolution of the pile response with frame movements is examined, regarding the effects of soil movement depth and profiles, and axial load using the measured moment and deflection. In particular, the triangular profile causes 95~160% higher 'ultimate' Mmax than the uniform movement does. The vertical load causes 5~17% higher value of the Mmax.