Field Tests on Bored Piles Subject to Axial and Oblique Pull

Abstract

The ultimate oblique pull of bored piles in sand was examined by a field testing program. Tests included axial uplift tests, lateral load tests, and oblique tests at an angle of 30° with the pile axis. The piles used were 101 mm in diameter by 1.5 m long and were installed in predominantly fine, medium‐dense sand. Lateral failure occurred in the oblique tests of the present program; however, both the axial and lateral failure must be considered in practical design. The maximum oblique pull was 74% of the axial pull since the smaller lateral capacity was reached first. Both the lateral and axial capacities were predicted with reasonable accuracy. The critical angle was defined as the angle of inclination of the load from the pile axis at which the failure mode changes from axial to lateral failure. It can be determined if the soil strength parameters and the pile type and geometry are known.