A Brazilian Experience in Pile Foundations 1st Part Theory of Vertical Piles Axially Loaded

Abstract

As a first part of the paper, a theory of vertical piles axially loaded is presented with the purpose of stablishing a theoretical basis on which load tests results and pile foundations behaviour observations in the cities of São Paulo and Santos, Brazil, can be interpreted. A brief mention of the evolution of pile theory is made before presentation of a theoretical approach to the behaviour of a vertical pile axially loaded aiming to characterize load transference to the soil by point and lateral resistances along the pile shaft before sliping of the pile on the soil is distinguished from the final lateral friction resistance on the pile. Attention is paid to the coeficient of pile reaction and bearing capacity of individual piles, as well as its elastic deformation, in order to make possible a better interpretation of load tests results.  At last a theoretical analysis of pile-group behaviour is made with the purpose to stablish a method to predict settlement and bearing capacity of pile foundations from load tests on individual piles.