by

Peter J. Bosscher
University of Wisconsin-Madison

Pile & Pier Foundation

Analysis & Design

Overview
Axial Load Capacity
Group Effects
Settlement

Topic Outline

A deep foundation is one

where the depth of
embedment is larger than
2X the foundation width.

Shallow vs Deep
Foundations

Overview

Alexander the Great, 332BC in Tyre

1930-1940 practice methodology

Amsterdam, die oude Stadt, is gebouwed op

palen, Als die stad eens emmevelt, wie zal dat
betalen? an old Dutch nursery rhyme
If in doubt about the foundation, drive piles.

one of the oldest methods of overcoming the

difficulties of founding on soft soils

Historic Perspective

cu = 500 psf

Immediate
Consolidation
Total

Pad
4.1
1.2
5.3

Load = 340 kips

Factor of Safety = 2

deep clay

Settlements at working load

Example

Single Pile
0.9
0.1
1.0

Pile & Pad 4-Pile Grp.

2.3
0.8
0.4
0.2
2.7
1.0

Contrast in Performance

weak upper soils

shallow (a)
deep (b)
large lateral loads (c)
expansive &
collapsible soils (d)
uplift forces (e)
bridge abutments &
piers (f)

Modern Uses

(FHWA)

Foundation
Design
Process

(FHWA)

Foundation
Design
Process
Continued

Foundation
Classification

10

Augered, Pressure
Injected Concrete
Piles
Micropiles
Pressure Injected
Footings

Steel Pipe Piles

Precast Concrete
Piles

Mandrel-Driven Piles

Cast-in-Place
Concrete Piles

Drilled Shafts

Steel H-Piles

Composite Piles

Timber Piles

Pile Types

11

Timber Piles

12