Journal Published Online: 09 August 2006
Volume 30, Issue 1

Methods for Deriving Curves from Instrumented Lateral Load Tests

CODEN: GTJODJ

Abstract

With the developments of new deep foundation systems and construction techniques, such as high capacity micro-piles, large diameter piles or drilled shafts, existing p-y criteria that were developed previously for small diameter piles or shafts may no longer be adequate. Deriving p-y curves from lateral load tests on instrumented deep foundations is critical for further refinement or developing pertinent p-y criteria for these new applications. However, there is a lack of a consistent and well verified method for deducing the p-y curves from lateral load tests measurement data. Four existing methods are evaluated using the measured results of eight full-scale field tests on fully instrumented drilled shafts as well as four hypothetical numerical simulation results. It is found that the p-y curves deduced by the piecewise cubic polynomial curve fitting method, when input into the LPILE (or COM624P) computer program, provides the smallest error on the prediction of deflections of a drilled shaft under the applied lateral loads. A procedure for determining an optimum strain gage spacing for instrumentation in a lateral load test to derive representative p-y curves is recommended. Finally, a parametric study has shown that the errors of the deduced p-y curves are mainly due to inaccurate moment profiles from strain gage readings. Accurate estimate of moment-curvature relationship of a reinforced concrete shaft is therefore essential to the accuracy of the deduced p-y curves from strain data.

Author Information

Yang, K
The University of Akron, Akron, OH
Liang, R
The University of Akron, Akron, OH
Pages: 8
Price: $25.00
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Stock #: GTJ100317
ISSN: 0149-6115
DOI: 10.1520/GTJ100317