Question 1
The figure below shows the load-settlement curves for two test piles obtained from the static
load tests. Results are also shown on this figure that correspond to the CAPWAP analyses
which results from the dynamic testing on the pile.
a. Explain the behavior of these two piles under static loading in terms of load carrying
capacity and settlement.
b. What are the estimated limit load capacities of the two piles? Compare the values
obtained from the figure to the limit load calculated using Chin’s method.
Department of Civil Engineering Fall 2022 Page 1 of 4
Question 2
The load-settlement curve and load distribution along the shaft are shown in the figure below
for a 20m long pile.
a. From the data shown on the figure, what were the load increments?
b. What is the relative contribution of shaft to base capacity at the different loading stages?
Present your answer in a table format for full credit.
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Question 3
Estimate the ultimate pile capacity of a 25-m precast concrete pile with 0.4m diameter in an
offshore structure where the submerged unit weight is 8.3 kN/m3. The profile of the undrained
shear strength, which changes linearly between the measured points, is:
Depth (m) 0 6 18 24 30
s u (kPa) 200 440 440 220 220
𝑠𝑠
Consider that �𝜎𝜎𝑢𝑢′ � = 0.25 and use the API (1993) method for estimating the shaft and base
𝑣𝑣 𝑁𝑁𝑁𝑁
capacities.
Department of Civil Engineering Fall 2022 Page 3 of 4
Question 4
An 80-cm drilled shaft is passing through a soft cohesive deposit (8m Soft CLAY with an
average undrained shear strength equal to 50kPa, E = 40,000kPa, ν = 0.3, γ moist = 17.5 kN/m3
and γ sat = 19.5 kN/m3) overlying a stiff clay (average undrained shear strength equal to 165kPa,
E = 80,000kPa, ν = 0.3, and γ sat = 20.5 kN/m3). The water table is at 5m from the ground
surface.
a. Draw the soil profile and estimate the length of the pile that is expected to carry a
vertical working load of 1500kN with a FS of about 3.
b. Estimate the settlement of the single pile. Consider that the concrete has an elastic
modulus E = 20,000MPa and a Poisson’s ratio ν = 0.15.
c. How many piles can be placed in an area of 20m x 20m considering a pile spacing of 3
times the pile diameter. Clearly show the piling configuration.
d. Assess the pile group capacity and efficiency.
Department of Civil Engineering Fall 2022 Page 4 of 4