A numerical investigation of laterally loaded steel fin pile foundations

Te Pei, Tong Qiu, Jeffrey A. Laman

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

The present study comprehensively evaluates the improvement in lateral load-carrying capacity of steel pipe piles by adding steel plates (fins) at grade level. This configuration of steel fin pile foundations (SFPFs) is effective for applications where high lateral loads are encountered and rapid pile installation is advantageous. An integrated finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted. The FEA utilized an Abaqus model, first developed to account for the nonlinear soil-pile interaction, and then calibrated and validated against well-documented experimental and filed tests in the literature. The validated FEA model was subsequently used to conduct a parametric study to understand the effect of fin geometry on the load transfer mechanism and the response of SFPFs subjected to lateral loading at pile head. The behavior of SFPFs at different displacement levels and load levels was studied. The effect of the relative density of soil on the performance of SFPFs was also investigated. Based on the numerical simulation results, the optimal fin width for maximum improvement in lateral load-carrying capacity was suggested and the underlining mechanism affecting the efficiency of fins was explained.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication2020 Joint Rail Conference, JRC 2020
PublisherAmerican Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
ISBN (Electronic)9780791883587
DOIs
StatePublished - 2020
Event2020 Joint Rail Conference, JRC 2020 - St. Louis, United States
Duration: Apr 20 2020Apr 22 2020

Publication series

Name2020 Joint Rail Conference, JRC 2020

Conference

Conference2020 Joint Rail Conference, JRC 2020
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySt. Louis
Period4/20/204/22/20

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Transportation

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A numerical investigation of laterally loaded steel fin pile foundations'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this