New Design Correlations for Piles in Sand

A critical review of the literature clearly shows that existing theories which are used to determine the bearing capacity of piles driven in sand are not satisfactory. Careful examination of the results of experimental studies indicates that existing theories fail to consider all significant parameters. Field load test data are used to determine which of the pile geometry and soil property parameters are significant. Special attention is given to the problem of residual stresses. Bearing capacity factors are calculated from measured unit point and side resistances. The bearing capacity factors are correlated with relative depth (depth of penetration to diameter ratio) and friction angle or relative density of sand. New design correlations are developed for use in predicting the bearing capacity of axially loaded piles in sand.