Lateral Load Analysis of Single Piles and Drilled Shafts

The p‐y method of analysis models nonlinear behavior, and is an effective method of designing deep foundations subjected to, lateral loads. Deflections and bending moments calculated using p‐y analyses have usually been found to be in good agreement with field measurements. This paper describes a method of analysis, the characteristic load method (CLM) that is simpler than p‐y analyses, but that closely approximates p‐y analysis results. The method uses dimensional analysis to characterize the nonlinear behavior of laterally loaded piles and drilled shafts by means of relationships among dimensionless variables. The new method is simple enough for use by manual calculation, and it can also be adapted for computer use. Lateral deflections and maximum bending moments calculated using CLM have been found to be in good agreement with values measured in field load tests.