Analysis of pile group by infinite layer method

Abstract

This paper presents an infinite layer method for the analysis of the settlement interaction between piles embedded in layered soil. The soil, which can have properties varying with depth, is divided into a number of infinite layers whereas the pile is divided into the same number of solid bar elements, which deform as a rigid section in the horizontal plane. Based on the single pile model, the increase in settlement of each pile due to interaction with the adjacent pile was calculated by an iteration procedure and is expressed in terms of an interaction factor. The influence of the layered soil, pile spacing and pile stiffness on the interaction effect is also examined. The effect of the rigidity of the pile cap on the load distribution among the poles and the settlement of the foundation system has also been investigated.