Experimental and numerical comparative analysis of piles subjected to lateral loading in granular soil of chilca, peru

Sanchez P.; Pena M.; Lopez M. · Minimax Theory and its Applications (2026)

Resumen

Piles are frequently employed in low-strength soils and are often subjected to lateral loads from various phenomena, including wind, waves, earthquakes, and lateral ground pressure. To ensure stability, the lateral strength of the piles must be analysed through theoretical methods or on-site tests, which are essential for accurate design. This research draws parallels between the deflection outcomes of a lateral load test and the responses in the ultimate limit state, p-y, as well as the finite element method. It demonstrates that a range of procedures, with varying degrees of effectiveness, offer a genuine approximation to the behaviour of the pile under lateral loading, thereby facilitating an optimal design. The trial to analyse the experimental behaviour was carried out in Chilca, located in the southern region of Lima, Peru. The foil-scale load testing conducted in this location provides a solid basis for understanding the problem. Geotechnical characterization was conducted using standard methods, including SPT field tests and seismic refraction analysis. The properties of the A572 grade 50 tubular steel pile are known to be standardized. The pile that was subjected to lateral load testing was in accordance with the guidelines of the ASTM D3966 standard. A comparison was made between the analytical and numerical calculations and the experimental measurements. This was accomplished by means of displacement plots along the pile. A three-dimensional numerical analysis was performed using the commercial program Abaqus®. This analysis employed an elastoplastic constitutive model with a Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion for the finite element method (FEM). The reaction problem of the subbase (p-y) was solved using GEO5®. The Matlock and Reese approximation was used as the soil modulus. Finally, the Broms and Meyerhof formulations were used for flexible piles. © (2026), (Heldermann Verlag). All rights reserved.

Instituciones: Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola