Comparison of field pile load tests with the theoretical static equations using soil parameters
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14311/AP.2025.65.0673Keywords:
pile load test, pile static equations, pile bearing capacity, cohesive soils, bored piles, tangent methodAbstract
Pile bearing capacity is simply the maximum load that a pile can withstand before excessive settlement. Its estimation is usually complex due to various factors, such as installation techniques, construction methods, and ground conditions. Validating pile designs through testing is important in order to ensure reliability and address any uncertainties that may arise during the design and construction phases. This research paper presents a comprehensive comparison of field pile load tests with theoretical static equations for determining the bearing capacity of pile foundations. The study focuses on the accuracy of static equations in estimating the bearing capacity of piles in cohesive soils. The research analysed twenty different cases involving bored piles in cohesive soils and compared the results with actual field pile load tests. The findings of the study indicate that this research is able to predict the bearing capacity of a cohesive soil that will be in close agreement with the results of field pile load test results for cohesive soils. Static equations are generally accurate in estimating the ultimate bearing capacity of piles but can be improved by conducting thorough soil investigations and lab testing for a more accurate representation of the soil parameters. The study recommends the use of static equations as an initial assessment tool, but also emphasises the importance of conducting field load tests to confirm their accuracy. The Tangent method is also recommended for adoption as a standard practice in pile design alongside the static equations, as both had correlation coefficients of 0.95 with the pile loading tests. The results of this study provide valuable insights for engineers and researchers involved in the design and construction of deep foundations, highlighting the accuracy and usefulness of static equations.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Samuel Akinlabi Ola, Bernard Chukwuemeka Finbarrs-Ezema, Ige Ayodeji Oluwasegun
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