Computer Application of CLM Lateral Load Analysis to Piles and Drilled Shafts

Abstract

The characteristic load method (CLM) for analysis at laterally loaded piles and drilled shafts can be used to accurately estimate ground-line deflections and maximum bending moments for both free-head and fixed-head piles in both clay and sand. This technical note provides equations for the nonlinear relationships used in the CLM for analysis of laterally loaded piles and drilled shafts. These equations can be used in spreadsheets or computer code to automate and simplify the analyses. The steps required for spreadsheet analysis of loading conditions involving both load and moment are described.