Static loading tests and numerical analyses of movement of helical piles in soft clays

A helical pile is a screw steel pile comprising a small diameter hollow shaft welded with one or multiple helices. It has been widely used to retrofit structures or provide foundation support for infrastructure. The current research and design practice of helical piles have heavily focused on the “capacity”. In contrast, little attention has been paid to the performance of these piles, i.e., the movement of piles. This research project aims to understand the load-movement response through static loading tests of helical piles with and without post-grouting in soft clays. The 3D finite element models calibrated with loading test data will be used to conduct parametric analyses. The results of the experimental and numerical analyses will be used to improve the Unified Design Method. The outcomes of this research will advance the understanding of axially loaded helical piles and improve design analyses of helical piles in subsided and non-subsided ground.

Faculty Supervisor:

Cheng Lin

Student:

Partner:

TerraCana Foundation Solutions Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Construction and infrastructure

University:

University of Victoria

Program: