PERFORMANCE OF ROCK-SOCKETED PILES UNDER COMPRESSION LOADS

Abstract

After ending up with the 1st, 2nd 3rd and 4th of the methodology steps (i.e.“Theoretical Study”, “Numerical Modelling” “Study Cases Simulations” and “Analytical Study”, the 5th study was due to be initiated “Inferential Study”. All through this study, a summary was formulated to all studies carried out in this research; conclusions were deduced and recommendations were suggested for future research so as Engineering Practice. This is presented under the following headlines: • Summary • Conclusions • Recommendations 6.1 SUMMARY In the framework of constructing mega projects in Egypt with innovated superstructures subjected to mega loads, this research was initiated with the objective of investigating the performance of rock-socketed piles under compression loads, numerically using Plaxis V8.6 for 3 study cases. Primarily, objectives were set and research methodology was put forward to attain such objectives. The methodology encompassed 5 studies (Theoretical, Numerical Modelling, Study Cases Simulation, Analytical ,and Inferential Studies). In the Theoretical Study, literature in the field of rock-socketed piles was accumulated, studied, scrutinized , and categorized into groups. In the Numerical Modelling, theoretical approaches (finite element) were investigated. In addition, modelling of rock-socketed piles was elaborated. In the Study Cases Simulations Study, several models were applied to tune their parameters to produce similar results to measured values (calibration process). This was achieved to 3 study cases. Moreover, through this study, models results were verified against measured values, from which it was clear that one of the models provided results in good agreement to measured values. In addition, trials were further achieved to adjust its parameters (Erockmass and φrockmass). In the Analytical Study, an analysis was achieved to the impact of the different parameters on the pile behaviour (uniaxial compressive strength , dip angle, socket length, settlement and roughness angle), in terms of empirical equations and models. This was achieved for the 3 study cases.