Performance of Axially Loaded Pipe Piles in Sand

Abstract

This paper summarizes the parameters that influence the axial capacity of pipe piles driven into sands. The parameters that affect pile behavior are for convenience divided into four categories: (1) Soil characteristics; (2) pile characteristics; (3) method of pile installation; and (4) type of loading. When possible, the influence that these parameters have on the capacity is quantified. In addition, the paper describes supporting evidence from pile load test data, small‐scale laboratory tests, and in situ cone probings that has been used to justify limiting values for unit shaft and toe resistances. The use of limiting values has significant economic impact on long piles, especially those used for offshore applications. This information is, therefore, evaluated and critiqued to place the use of limiting values in proper perspective. The results of this paper are based on a synthesis of literature on (1) pile load test data on piles in sand, (2) data from cone penetrometer tests in sands, and (3) information on the stress‐strain and strength behavior of sand.