Active Length of Laterally Loaded Piles

Abstract

The active length of single free-head vertical piles, subjected to lateral pulse loadings at the pile head was analyzed by using the method of direct analysis. Direct analysis employs the numerical approach based on the principle of beam on elastic foundation. Piles with different materials and soil conditions were analyzed for various load durations. Results of the analysis show a relationship between the active pile length and the load duration. Knowledge of this relationship may be useful for designing a safe and economical pile foundation subjected to pulse lateral loadings.