Pile Group Analysis: A Study of Two Methods

A brief outline is given of the basis of analysis used in two computer programs, PIGLET and DEFPIG, for analysis of pile group response. A comparison of the capabilities of each program is presented and then a parametric study is made of a six‐pile group to illustrate the similarities and differences between the two programs. Two series of field tests on groups of piles are then analysed by DEFPIG and PIGLET, and it is shown that the predictions from each are consistent and in generally good agreement with the field data. The comparisons suggest that each program may be used with confidence for practical problems, particularly in conjunction with single pile load test data.