Tests on Model Instrumented Grouted Piles in Offshore Calcareous Soil

Abstract

This paper describes the results of tests on model instrumented grouted pile shafts installed into beds of an offshore calcareous sand. This calcareous sand was obtained from the North‐West Shelf of Australia, at the site of the North Rankin A offshore gas platform. The main characteristics of this sand are its high void ratio and tendency to crush under relatively moderate stresses. The behavior of the pile shaft during installation, under static loading, and under both displacement‐controlled and load‐controlled cyclic loadings is investigated. It is found that the residual stresses developed along the pile shaft as a result of installation are insignificant. Although the static skin friction of the pile shaft is found to be relatively high, it can be reduced substantially when subjected to cyclic loading under both displacement‐controlled and load‐controlled conditions. Comparisons are made between the data from the present investigation and those obtained from previous tests for small model piles and also some field tests. The results are found to be consistent.