Load settlement behaviors of single piles with different diaphragm heights

In this study, the behavior of single steel piles under axial loading is analyzed, in terms of settlement, friction and load transfer mechanisms are concerned. Four different sand relative densities (Dr) of 10%, 40%, 65% and 90% were used for two single steel piles. These piles have 60 cm length, 5 cm diameter and two different diaphragm height (2.5 and 5 cm). 8 model experiments were carried out under axial load in the laboratory. Nonlinear computer modeling was then performed using the finite element-based program Plaxis 3D. The results of the both methods, the load-settlement ratio and the ratio of the load transferred to the pile base are given in the graphs and both Plaxis and experimental results are compared with each other. The results showed that the internal friction angle of the sand and the bearing capacity of the steel piles increased with increasing relative density. In addition, when the height of the pile diaphragm increases, the bearing capacity of the pile increases. The overall results show that the finite element analysis results are in good agreement with the experimental results.