CADS Bearing Pile

CADS BEARING PILE DESIGNER
USER MANUAL
CADS Bearing Pile Designer User Manual
Contents
1 Getting Started................................................................................................................................ 1
1.1 CADS ........................................................................................................................................ 1
1.2 Program Description ............................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Notes on using CADS Bearing Pile Designer ............................................................................ 2
1.4 Installation .............................................................................................................................. 5
1.5 Starting BPile ........................................................................................................................... 5
1.6 Working with BPile .................................................................................................................. 5
2 Single Pile Analysis .......................................................................................................................... 6
2.1 Top Section of the Software Window ..................................................................................... 6
2.2 Pile Definition Tab ................................................................................................................... 8
2.3 Soils and Water Tab ................................................................................................................ 9
2.3.1 Soil Properties ............................................................................................................... 10
2.3.2 Deleting or adding a soil strata ..................................................................................... 12
2.3.3 Soils Generator.............................................................................................................. 13
2.3.4 Friction ratios ................................................................................................................ 13
2.3.5 Unit resistance limits..................................................................................................... 14
2.4 Analysis options tab .............................................................................................................. 14
2.4.1 Design Reference and Partial factors ............................................................................ 15
2.5 Axial Resistance ..................................................................................................................... 17
2.6 Serviceability Limit State Design ........................................................................................... 17
3 Lateral Load Analysis ..................................................................................................................... 19
3.1 Lateral Load Calculations ...................................................................................................... 19
4 Shaft Design .................................................................................................................................. 21
4.1 ULS Pile shaft forces frame ................................................................................................... 21
4.2 Materials frame..................................................................................................................... 22
4.3 Design checks grid ................................................................................................................. 22
4.4 EC2 Concrete Design ............................................................................................................. 23
4.5 EC3 Steel Design .................................................................................................................... 25
5 Pile Group Analysis........................................................................................................................ 27
5.1 Group Analysis Tab ............................................................................................................... 27
5.2 Group Resistance .................................................................................................................. 27
6 Working Platforms ........................................................................................................................ 30
6.1 Working Platform Tab ........................................................................................................... 30
Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

6.1.1 Loading Tab ................................................................................................................... 30
6.1.2 Soils and Water Tab ...................................................................................................... 31
6.1.3 Tabular Calculations Tab ............................................................................................... 32
6.1.4 Depth Summary Tab ..................................................................................................... 34
6.2 Calculation methods ............................................................................................................. 34
7 Printing .......................................................................................................................................... 39
Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

1 Getting Started
1.1 CADS
CADS Bearing Pile Designer - Copyright 2019
No part of this document may be reproduced, transmitted, stored in a retrieval system, or translated
into any language in any form or by any means without the written permission of CADS.
Whilst the description of CADS programs contained in this document are as accurate and up-to-date
as possible, it is our policy to continuously improve and expand the facilities which the programs offer.
We therefore reserve the right to change the program specifications at any time without prior notice.
AutoCAD, AutoLISP and ADS are registered trademarks of Autodesk Inc.
All other trademarks are acknowledged.
Important Notice
All due care has been taken to ensure that the data produced by this program is accurate. However,
it remains the responsibility of the user to verify that any design based upon this data meets all
applicable standards. Please refer to the CADS Software Maintenance and Licence Agreement for
detailed information.
Contact Details
Computer and Design Services Limited,
Arrowsmith Court,
Broadstone,
Dorset, BH18 8AX
Tel. (Sales): +44 (0) 1202 603031
Tel. (Support): +44 (0) 1202 603733
Email (Sales): sales@cads.co.uk
Email (Support): support@cads.co.uk
Website: www.cads.co.uk
1.2 Program Description

CADS Bearing Pile Designer (BPile) is a Windows application that is developed to assist experienced
Engineers with the analysis and design of single piles, pile groups and working platforms. The software
analysis and design modules are based on Eurocode compliant concepts but include options to use
more traditional methods where appropriate. Bearing piles are essentially either cast into bored holes
or driven into the ground. The pile resistance is determined by the sum of the skin friction around the
pile shaft and the end bearing at the pile base.
In version 2 of the software there have been considerable upgrades to the scope and functionality of
the software including the following items:
1 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

 Eurocode 7 geotechnical analysis.

 Traditional global FOS analysis also available.
 Eurocode 2 compliant design of concrete pile shafts.
 Eurocode 3 compliant design of steel pile shafts.
 Partial factors available for user editing.
 New tabbed user interface with fewer dialog windows.
 More flexible input of soil strata and properties.
 Soils generator based on standard borehole descriptions.
 Improved definition and library of steel sections.
 Lateral load analysis.
 Working platform design.
 Printing system improved with greater control of output.
 New help system.
Due to the complexity and scope of the program, it is impossible to test its output for the full range of
possible user data input. Users should therefore validate the application output by carrying out
independent checks. Should any discrepancies be unexplained, they should be referred to CADS for
investigation. The user is also advised that as with all designs, the results should be independently
checked prior to construction by a suitably qualified and experienced engineer. It is normal in bearing
pile construction to verify the design by preliminary and/or working pile tests.
BPile provides a wide range of analysis options to enable informed judgement on the modelling,
analysis and design of bearing piles and working platforms to be made. In order to get maximum
benefit from the software and safe and efficient designs, users are advised to study carefully the
functionality and background to the features. It should not be assumed that accepting the default
settings will automatically produce a safe or economical design.
This document is written primarily as a help system but is also provided as a User Manual in PDF
format. The Help system and the application itself assume that the user is experienced in the use of
Microsoft Windows and has sufficient knowledge of basic soil mechanics and bearing pile design.
1.3 Notes on using CADS Bearing Pile Designer

Design Codes in the UK
The design of piles for buildings, and other civil engineering works is dealt with in the following
documents:
 BS EN 1997-1:2004 +A1:2013 Eurocode 7: Geotechnical Design Part 1 General Rules and Part
2 Ground Investigation and Testing [commonly known as Eurocode 7 or EC7]
Which are to be read in conjunction with the National Annexe for the individual Member States of the
European Union and for the UK this is:
 NA+A1:2014 to BS EN 1997-1:2004+A1: 2013 UK National Annex to Eurocode 7: Geotechnical
design-Part1: General Rules

 EN 1997-1 is intended to be used with EN 1990 and EN 1991 to EN 1999

The Eurocode also makes reference to Normative References and for Pile Design these are:
 EN 1536:1999 Execution of special geotechnical work: Bored Piles
 EN 12699:2000 Execution of special geotechnical work: Displacement Piles
 EN 14199 Execution of special geotechnical works: Micropiles
The user of this Application is referred to Clause 1.3 of Eurocode 7 which sets out the assumptions of
the code. The clause also makes reference to the Geotechnical Design Report which is defined in
Clause 2.8 and which should normally also include in addition to other documents, the Ground
Investigation report defined in Clause 3.4.
Clause 1.4 of the Eurocode sets out the distinction between Principles and Application Rules. Sub-
section 5 of that clause states: “It is permissible to use alternatives to the Application Rules given in
this standard, provided it is shown that the alternative rules accord with the relevant Principles and
are at least equivalent with regard to the structural safety, serviceability and durability, which would
be expected when using the Eurocodes”.
There is an accompanying Note:
“If an alternative design rule is submitted for an application rule, the resulting design cannot be
claimed to be wholly in accordance with EN 1997-1, although the design will remain in accordance
with the Principles of EN 1997-1. When EN 1997-1 is used in respect of a property listed in annexe Z
of a product standard or an ETAG, the use of the alternative design rule may not be acceptable for CE
marking.”
In respect of the design of Pile Foundations Clause 7.1(1) Section 7 States that the provisions of this
section only apply to end-bearing piles, friction piles, tension piles and transversely loaded piles
installed by driving, by jacking and by screwing or boring without grouting.
In addition to the Eurocode for Foundations, the BSI has now published BS 8004:2015 Code of Practice
for Foundations. This document gives non-contradictory information for use with BS EN 1997 and its
National Annexes. Clause 6 gives specific recommendations for the design and construction of pile
foundations. Whereas BS EN 1997-1 only provides partial safety factors for driven, CFA and bored
piles, BS 8004:2015 classifies piles according to the ground disturbance caused by installation and
includes:
 High displacement: Driven cast-in place concrete piles, Precast concrete piles of solid section,
Closed end tubular steel piles, Timber piles;
 Low displacement: Displacement auger piles (not screw piles), Steel bearing piles of H section,
Open ended tubular steel piles, Helical steel piles
 Replacement: Bored cast–in-place concrete piles installed using a continuous fight auger,
Bored cast-in–place concrete piles installed using casing and drilling tools and Micro piles.
Table 7 of BS 8004:2015 gives the Classification of piles according to ground disturbance so that the
user may select the appropriate partial factors to be used in BS EN 1997-1.
CADS Bearing Pile Designer does not specifically deal with piled underpinning, helical steel piles, micro
piles or timber piles. Guidance on the design and installation of timber piling can be found in BRE
Digest 479.
CADS Bearing Pile Designer is not prescriptive in respect of the values of parameters and safety factors
that are used in its calculations and although default values may be prompted by the program it is for
users to choose whether to accept these or to enter their own values. It is for users to choose with

which Code of Practice they will comply and to ensure that they have adopted a compatible set of
parameter values and safety factors for each limit state addressed.
When selecting the value of a parameter the user should consider the duration and variation in time
of the loading and in respect of a geotechnical parameter, the characteristic value should be selected
as a cautious estimate of the value affecting the occurrence of the limit state. In accordance with
Clause 2.4.5.2 (5) “Characteristic values of geotechnical parameters can be lower values, which are
less than the most probable values, or upper values which are greater.”
Generally, the single pile axial load resistance is the total of the base resistance plus the side friction.
The bearing resistance of a pile foundation should be determined for the appropriate failure criterion
corresponding to an ultimate limit state of the foundation. The Eurocode recommends that settlement
of the pile top equal to 10% of the pile base diameter be adopted as the failure criterion when it is
difficult to define the ultimate limit state. It also states that the base resistance calculated from models
that assume plunging failure of the pile should be reduced appropriately to match the failure criterion
appropriate to the ultimate limit state of the pile.
Where piles are providing the resistance to vertical actions (loads) primarily by end bearing rather
than skin friction the user should check that where the end bearing resistance is provided by
embedment in to a hard stratum the thickness of that hard stratum is sufficient to accommodate all
the action and that it is not underlain by a weaker stratum so that it could “punch” through.
Commentators on the Eurocode have suggested that a factor (0.83) should be applied on the bearing
capacity factor to allow for limited embedment in a granular stratum. If the User has concerns
regarding the length of embedment this can also be addressed by the selection of the values of the
parameters used to calculate the bearing capacity as indicated above.
CADS Bearing Pile Designer allows the ultimate bearing resistance of a pile to be calculated directly
from the results of ground tests on soil and rock (CPT and SPT) but not directly from the results of
static pile tests or directly from the results of dynamic impact tests or from the results of pile driving
formulae, or wave equation analysis. The ultimate tensile resistance of an individual pile is determined
from static formulae based on ground parameters.
The settlement of individual or groups of piles is not calculated by CADS Bearing Pile Designer. The
User should refer to Clause 6.4.4 of BS 8004:2015 for further guidance. However, it is recommended
that whatever model is used to assess settlement its validity should be demonstrated by static pile
load tests in comparable situations.
The lateral displacement of individual or groups of piles under lateral or horizontal actions or loads is
not calculated by CADS Bearing Pile Designer. The User should refer to Clause 6.4.5 of BS 8004:2015
for further guidance. However, in the calculation of lateral resistance CADS Bearing Pile Designer does
make an allowance for softening near the ground surface following Broms.
When using this program for the design of piles to resist lateral or horizontal actions (loads), the user
should in selecting the values of the soil parameters, take into account the nature of the action (load)
and whether it is variable both in intensity and direction and the frequency of such changes. The
reversal of lateral actions can lead to softening of the soil around the pile and this affect can be
exacerbated if there is a long free length of pile above the top of the soil.
Care should be taken in using this program to determine the resistance of single piles to lateral actions
(loads) where the pile does not form part of a structure of some kind so there is no ability to “share”
the action.
In marine environments where there is tidal action the effect of this on the water table in which the
pile or piles are founded should be considered.

1.4 Installation
The software must be installed on a computer running a compatible version of the Windows operating
system before it can be used. Once installed, the software must be authorised, either with a
standalone software licence, a network licence or a CADS dongle.
Installation procedure
The procedure is as follows:
Insert CADS program CD into the computers CD drive.
The CD should run automatically. If nothing happens run the software via the Run option from the
Windows Start menu.
Follow the on-screen instructions. The latest set of instructions relating to the current CADS CD will
guide you through the installation.
Authorisation
After you have installed the application, it will have to be authorised before you can use it using the
CADS Licence Manager, which is invoked automatically if the software is started before it has been
authorised. Details of how to get authorisation are provided with the installation CD. If in any doubt
contact CADS support.
1.5 Starting BPile

In Windows you can start the program by selecting Start > Programs > CADS Bearing Pile Designer or
using a short cut if available. The first time you start the software you will see a dialog box stating that
no user information is available. Click on OK to proceed. The software display requires a minimum
screen resolution of 1024x768 and it is usually preferable to maximise the application on the screen.
The bottom part of the window contains a tabbed data entry and display area. You can change tabs
by clicking on the appropriate tab. In the top part of the window there is a diagram area which shows
graphical information relevant to the active tab. The remainder of this help document gives detailed
information on the use of each tab.
1.6 Working with BPile

Entering Data
The tabs provide a guide to the order in which the project data can be entered. If the project is being
started from scratch, the first data to enter is that on the Pile Definition tab.
Using Examples
The installation process will have copied some example projects to your computer. These examples
can be opened by starting the application and selecting File/Open from the menu. The examples
provide a way to explore the application with data already provided. It is a good idea to try adding
additional soils and modifying the data for these projects as a way of learning the way in which the
application works.

2 Single Pile Analysis

The software when started should look like this:
The tabs that control the operation of the software are in a row underneath the graph area. The Pile
Definition tab should have been automatically selected so that tab is shown. The data required for a
single pile analysis is entered into the first three tabs and the tabular analysis results are displayed on
the fourth tab. Analysis is carried out automatically in the background. Changing any of the data that
affects the analysis will automatically trigger a re-analysis so the results displayed are always current.
Tabs further right allow access to other features in the software. The layout of this help document
follows the order of the tabs.
2.1 Top Section of the Software Window

Initially the top part of the window is a blank graph. When soils data has been entered the graph will
show how the axial resistance of the pile varies with depth. By default, only the total axial compression
resistance is shown on the graph but other parameters can be selected for graphing. All of the
available parameters can be shown at once if required. To the right of the graph are two frames as
described below.

Single pile axial results summary frame
this screenshot is wrong, not the current one!

This frame contains the results of the calculations and allows the user to see if the specified toe level
of the pile is sufficient to ensure the Design axial compression resistance and tension resistance
exceed the Design applied loads. Note that the applied loads have a load factor applied so may be
greater than the user defined unfactored loads. The pile resistances shown already have the partial
soil strength and model factors applied.
Single pile axial resistance graphics frame
This frame allows the user to select the lines displayed on the graph to the left of the frame. Generally
resistance is shown in kN except for unit shaft friction which is shown in kN/m2. The lines are shown
or removed by clicking on the relevant options.

Multiple lines can be shown on the same graph. The graph horizontal axis is automatically rescaled to
suit the highest values that have to be displayed. The soil and water levels defined are also shown
here. The top of the graph is always ground level (top level of the top soil) rather than the head level
of the pile as there is no pile resistance above this level.
2.2 Pile Definition Tab

The pile definition tab will appear as shown below. The tab is split into three frames and in this section
the purpose of each frame will be described in turn.
Pile Type Frame
This frame allows the pile type to be specified using the options listed. The Bored and CFA options are
very similar with minor differences in the default geotechnical analysis calculations.
The diameter and wall thickness of the tubular steel pile can be directly entered so the user should
have access to standard section lists and know which sections to specify. The driven H pile section size
is selected from a list of available UK and European sections. The size of a square precast section is
defined by its side length. The materials and reinforcement layouts of each type of section are defined
on the Shaft Design tab so are not entered at this stage as these properties do not affect the single
pile geotechnical analysis.
The pile type and dimensions specified here are used throughout the software and affect the lateral
load analysis and the shaft design parts of the software as well as the vertical load capacity analysis.
Should the User wish to select one of the additional pile types that are allowed by BS 8004:2015 over
and above the Eurocode and which are used in the UK, then one can just select a similar type from the
list and then following the guidance in Table 7 change the various factors accordingly by hand.

Pile geometry frame
The pile levels and length are defined here. The two levels and the pile length can be altered by the
user. Editing the levels automatically adjusts the pile length. Editing the pile length automatically
adjusts the pile toe level.
The button at the base of the frame causes the software to automatically adjust the toe level of the
pile (in 100mm increments) and select the toe level which provides axial compression and axial tension
resistance exceeding those specified in the applied loads frame (see below). The pile length must lie
in the range 1m to 100m long.
Applied Loads (unfactored actions) Frame
The pile unfactored applied loads are defined here. The loads are applied at the head level of the pile
specified in the geometry frame (see above). These loads are used in all parts of the BPile software. If
a fixed head is specified a moment load cannot be specified and the actual moment generated by head
fixity is determined in the lateral load analysis part of the software. Lateral loads are positive in left to
right direction. Moments are positive in a clockwise direction.
2.3 Soils and Water Tab

For a new project the soils and water tab will appear as shown below.

After soil data has been entered the soils and water tab will be populated as exemplified below:
In the soils grid each line of data on the grid represents a soil stratum. There must be at least one soil
so the "Delete Soil" button is disabled if only one soil is present. To edit any of the cells on the grid
just click on the cell to enable editing. Press enter to complete the data editing or Esc to abandon
editing.
There are two ways to add new soil strata. The "Add Soil" button will add a new default soil and ask
for a top level for the strata. The second method is using the "Soil Generator" button to display a new
window containing the Soil Generator.
The ground water level can be defined in the box at the bottom of the tab. If the soils are dry, then
define a water level which is well below the toe level of the pile. Normally the water level is taken
from the project soils interpretive report. If there are seasonal or tidal variations, then the highest
likely water level in service should be defined here.
2.3.1 Soil Properties

The soils grid appears as shown below
Each column of the grid displays a property of the soils (each soil is a line on the grid). The column
data are described below. Cells that are greyed out are not appropriate to the soil type selected and

cannot be edited. Any soil property can be edited by double clicking on it or by selecting the cell (using
the mouse or the cursor keys) then pressing the return button to confirm the edited value.
Top Level
The top level of the soil strata. The top level of the top strata is the ground level. The soils in the grid
are displayed in the order of their top levels so if the level is edited then the order of the soils on the
grid may change. When a new soil is added a new top level will be requested.
Soil Description
The soil description is just for identification. The description appears in graphics and in the printout
but has no effect on the analysis carried out.
Soil Type
The soil type specified here affects the way BPile calculates the skin friction and end bearing resistance
within the soil strata. The soil types are selected from a drop down list (double click or press return on
the cell to get the drop down list). The available soil types within the list are as follows: -
Granular, Phi - Use for soils such as sands and gravels where the soil strength is defined by its internal
angle of friction (Phi).
Granular, SPT - Use for soils such as sands and gravels where SPT values are known but Phi values are
not. The use of this option is generally not as reliable as the "Granular, Phi" option so should only be
used in preliminary designs when a GI interpretive report is not available. See also Clause 6.4.1.3.3.4
of BS 8004:2015.
Clay, Undrained - The majority of piles in clay in the UK have been and continue to be designed using
undrained (total stress) parameters (using cohesion values determined from quick undrained triaxial
testing). In some cases, such as under basements where the vertical stresses in the clay may change
during construction and use it may be advisable to check the result using drained (effective stress)
parameters. Users should also be aware that there are differences between glacial tills and boulder
clays and also for bored piles in stiff over consolidated clays such as London, Gault, Lias, Oxford and
Weald Clays (BS 8004:2015 Cls 6.4.1.2.3.6-9)
Clay, Drained - This option is used for drained (effective stress) conditions in clays.
Chalk - This option is used for chalk. The chalk SPT values should be used to define the quality of the
chalk.
Bulk Density
This is a traditional parameter in soil mechanics that represents the weight of a 1m cube of soil.
Saturated Density
This is the density of the soil when it is saturated with water (used for all soils below the specified
water table). For a clay the saturated density will typically be the same as the bulk density. However
granular soils such as sands and gravels can absorb large amounts of water as it displaces air in voids
within the soil matrix. This means the saturated densities of granular materials can typically rise above
the bulk density up to about 20kN/m3.
Phi
Phi is the internal angle of friction of a soil measured in degrees. Undrained clays typically have zero
Phi. Naturally occurring granular soils typically have Phi values of between 30 and 40 degrees. The
actual Phi value should be determined from the project soils interpretive report. Preliminary design
values can be taken from the soils generator. There is also a simple guide to estimating Phi values in
granular soils in BS8004:2015.

Cohesion
Clays can exhibit true or apparent cohesion. True cohesion is caused by electrostatic forces in stiff
over consolidated clays (which might be lost through weathering) and cementing by chemical action.
The apparent cohesion of a clay is not really a soil property and arises because the negative pore
pressure within the clay matrix is sucking the soil particles together giving them an apparent cohesion.
This cohesion will vary with time if the clay is unloaded or exposed. The length of time the clay takes
to drain may vary from a few hours to a hundred years or more. If the clay remains undisturbed under
a piled foundation the cohesion will remain unchanged. Cohesion can be taken from undrained triaxial
test results or in many clays the cohesion can be calculated as 4.5x SPT value (this is very accurate in
London Clays and similar soils). Preliminary design values can be taken from the soils generator. The
cohesion value can also be estimated from the clay description in a borehole log (Soft/Firm/Stiff etc.).
The cohesion increment column is used to define the increase in cohesion value per metre depth into
the soil strata. It is quite common for cohesion to increase with depth.
SPT
The standard penetration test (SPT) is a common in-situ test used in boreholes. The SPT test is
performed by driving an SPT shell into the base of a borehole using a known weight dropped a known
distance. The blows required to drive the shell into the ground over six successive 75mm increments
is measured. The SPT number is the total number of blows taken for the last four increments. SPT
values can be used as a rough guide to soil properties in granular soils and chalk. The soil increment
column is used to define the increase in SPT count per metre depth into the soil strata.
Note these comments:

The use of such rules of thumb without a full understanding of their relationships in terms of
significance and underlying experimental error may lead to the incorrect application of these
multiplying factors.
The use of such values may lead to erroneous design values when compared to laboratory values
obtained. The findings confirm the guidance given in Eurocode 7 that the use of the SPT should be
restricted to a “qualitative evaluation of the soil profile” as there is “no general agreement on the use
of SPT results in clayey soil” (Eurocode 7 part 2 p50); the SPT is mainly used for the determination of
strength properties in coarse soils. Moreover, “if an empirical relationship is used in the analysis, it
shall be clearly established that it is relevant for the prevailing ground condition” (Eurocode 7 part 1
p24).
From The misuse of SPTs in fine soils and the implications of Eurocode 7 by
Alan Reid and Dr John Taylor, Ground Engineering July2010
2.3.2 Deleting or adding a soil strata

Deleting a soil
To delete a soil simply select the appropriate soil in the table with the mouse or cursor keys and click
the "Delete Soil" button. The delete button is automatically disabled when there is only one strata.
Adding a soil
There are two ways to add a soil strata to a project. To add a soil with default soil properties click the
"Add Soil" button. To select soil properties using the soil generator click the "Soil Generator" button.
Soil Level Window

When a soil is added as described above the user will be prompted to add a top level for the new soil
as shown below.
The top level will define where in the soils profile (grid) the new soil is added. If the new level is above
the top level of the highest soil it will be added at the top of the grid and will become the ground level
for the project.
2.3.3 Soils Generator

The soils generator is a way of defining a new soil strata using standard borehole log descriptions. The
soil generator dialog is shown when the soils generator button is pressed on the soils and water tab.
The soils generator dialog appears as shown below.
Select the appropriate option in each of the lists that are relevant or known (work left to right). Some
lists can be left without anything selected. The content of columns will change to show options
appropriate for the soil grouping selected. For clays an additional option is displayed allowing the use
of effective stress properties. The properties that will be applied are shown in the frame in below the
selection lists.
Pressing the Apply button will take the user to the next step which is to define the soil top level.
Pressing the Cancel button will abort the process of adding a new soil.
2.3.4 Friction ratios

The single pile axial load resistance is the total of base resistance plus side friction. The side friction is
calculated in the software from two components.
Skin friction in granular soils.

In granular soils the unit skin friction is determined by multiplying the vertical effective stress at any
level by a coefficient of friction between the pile and the soil strata. This coefficient of friction can be
defined in the soils grid by editing the value in the appropriate cell. Entering a zero value for the friction
value returns the software to automatic selection of the skin friction coefficient in accordance with
BS8004:2015.
The formula for skin friction in BS8004:2015 clause 6.4.1.2.2 includes two factors Ks and Tan(delta).
The normal values for Ks and Delta (as a function of Phi) are given in the same clause. Where the
software generated values are over-ridden Tan(Delta) is set to unity and Ks takes the value defined by
the user.
Users should be aware that the angle of internal friction may be affected by the presence of fine soils
overlying coarse soils and should adjust values accordingly.
Skin friction in cohesive soils.
In both drained and undrained soils, if the automatic option is selected, the various factors are taken
from BS8004:2015 clause 6.4.1.2.3.
Skin friction in chalk
The values for friction in chalk are not given in BS 8004 so are referenced back to CIRIA documents
and cannot be manually adjusted.
The User’s attention is also drawn to the possible need when calculating skin friction resistance to
allow for ground that is subject to a stress reduction for example within the zone of influence of deep
excavations,
2.3.5 Unit resistance limits

Pile designers sometimes wish to limit unit skin friction or unit end bearing capacity. This might be to
limit settlements or to match the results of pile testing results. In the soils grid the two right hand
columns allow the user to enter limits for skin friction and end bearing. Entering zero limits resets the
software to unlimited values.
2.4 Analysis options tab

The analysis options tab has several sections into which data may be entered either by the program
or the user can overwrite. BPile follows traditional UK practice to verify the compressive resistance of
an individual pile using ground test results in calculations based on soil mechanics theory. This
approach is termed the “alternative procedure” in BS EN 1997-2004+A1:2013.

2.4.1 Design Reference and Partial factors
Design Reference
The user can select one of four partial factor sets by clicking on the option buttons in the "Design
reference" frame. The options available, only one of which may be selected are:
 Eurocode 7, UK National Annexe Design approach 1, Combination 1 Ultimate Limit State
abbreviated to Eurocode 7 UK NA DA1 C1ULS
 Eurocode 7 UK National Annexe Design approach 1 Combination 2 Ultimate Limit State
abbreviated to Eurocode 7 UK NA DA1 C2 ULS
 Traditional global factors of safety.
 User defined values.
The software defaults to EC7, Design Approach 1, Combination 2 (EC7 C2) as a default. Generally, EC7
C2 is the critical combination for axial capacity or pile length. If there are large lateral loads or head
moments applied, then EC7 C1 may be more critical for lateral loads and shaft design. There are
further options to describe the type of loading and the pile testing regime to be applied and the partial
factors will automatically adjust to reflect the options chosen here.
Selection of either of the first two options will automatically post factor values to the subsequent
tables. The third and fourth columns both by default contain partial factors which reflect traditional
methods of pile design in the UK before EC7 was published. The fourth column is user editable so can
be changed to suit project specific factors. To edit a cell either double click with the mouse or select
with the mouse and press the enter key. To complete the edit press the enter key. Values will be
automatically validated as they are entered.
Load Factor

The user may enter a value for the variable loads percentage of total loads. This only applies if the EC
options are selected as the design reference. EC7 table A3 gives different partial safety factors for
unfavourable permanent and variable loads so it is necessary to apportion the input total service load
accordingly.
Pile Testing
The user is able to select the pile testing regime to be adopted for the design.
Factors applied to vertical analysis
The separate partial factors for skin friction and base resistance are not applied concurrently with the
partial factor on compression resistance. The design compression resistance is the lower result from
the application of the two independent sets of factors. This use of two sets of factors is covered in
detail in any of the standard piling text books.
Factors applied to lateral analysis
In the lateral load analysis a lateral resistance factor is applied to the calculated passive resistance at
all levels. In the case of EC7 Combination 1 the total partial factor applied is 1.35. In the traditional
format the only factor that is not unity is the lateral load factor with a value of 2.0.
Shaft Downdrag

Shaft downdrag that can occur in soft soils is treated by BPile as negative skin friction. The user has
the option to enter a depth over which downdrag should be applied and a depth over which friction
should be ignored. The user can also enter values for a partial load factor and partial material factors
for tan phi and cohesion for downdrag.
Partial factors defined for downdrag are applied differently from other pile partial safety factors
because downdrag is a disturbing force, Values in excess of unity will increase downdrag.
Where the user considers that the amount of downdrag could be critical to the performance of the
pile then the user is referred to BS 8004:2015 Cls 6.4.1.8.1 to 6.4.1.8.4
2.5 Axial Resistance
The software calculates the vertical total soil stress, water pressure, vertical effective stress at 1m
intervals below ground level as well as recording the values of phi, cohesion, SPT, friction factor,
friction tan delta factor, friction adhesion factor, bearing factors Nq and Nc. Based on the vales of the
parameters previously entered the software calculates at each level the unit side friction, cumulative
side friction, unit end bearing stress, leading to the compression and tension resistances.
2.6 Serviceability Limit State Design

BPile does not calculate pile settlement and BS EN 1997:2004+A1:2013 merely states that the design
effects of actions specified in the serviceability criterion should be less than the limiting value of the
relevant serviceability criterion.

In order to keep settlement to a minimum it is common practice in the UK to limit the representative
load on a friction pile to its characteristic shaft resistance (thereby discounting its base resistance).
However this is not a requirement of the Eurocode.
Users should be aware that basing the serviceability on shaft resistance alone with a partial safety
factor for shaft resistance in the serviceability state can lead to uneconomic designs where the
serviceability limit state has been otherwise verified by more detailed calculation or load testing, or
the settlement of the pile is not a concern or the pile is installed by driving into competent ground or
the stiffness of the ground below the pile toe has been improved significantly for example by base
grouting.

3 Lateral Load Analysis

When the "Lateral analysis" tab is selected the software window appears as below.
The graphics section at the top shows bending moment and shear force diagrams for the length of pile
required to satisfy limit equilibrium conditions. The table in the tab shows the main calculation results.
There is no data to input here since the applied loads and the soils are already defined in other tabs.
The lateral analysis in the software is very simple to use and provides pile forces (Bending Moments
and Shear) that are by default transferred directly to the shaft design section of the software.
The software uses a short pile analysis explained in more detail in the following section.
3.1 Lateral Load Calculations

The lateral load calculations use a limit equilibrium approach combined with soil resistance as defined
originally by Broms (1964) and explained in the book Piling Engineering, Third Edition, Section 4.3. EC7
gives limited guidance on lateral load analysis (limited to some words in the section on the resistance
of single piles). It does say that “(1)P the transverse resistance of a pile or a group of pile shall be
calculated using a compatible set of structural effects of actions, ground reactions and displacements.”
BS8004:2015 adds some further clarification in clause 6.7.4. but simply says lateral resistance is a
function of pile length, pile strength and soil strength. The limit equilibrium approach described below
is therefore assumed to be equally applicable to the EC7 methods.

The limiting lateral resistance of a pile in granular soils is taken as Pu= Kp2σ'vd where d is the width of
the pile. Kp is derived in accordance with the basic Rankine formula ignoring friction between the pile
and the soil. The reason for using this is that the original papers presenting the equation above (and
comparing the results to full scale testing) were based on this method and changing to an EC7
numerical derivation of Kp would not be justified without further testing. For cohesive soils the limiting
lateral resistance per unit length is taken as 9Cu x pile width except within 3 pile diameters of ground
level over which the resistance is assumed to vary linearly with depth from 2Cu x pile width at ground
level. All appropriate partial factors (loads, soil strength, model factor and lateral resistance factor)
are applied to the analysis.
Where pile head fixity is specified the analysis is first carried out as a free headed pile then half of the
moment determined at the first level of zero shear is applied in a negative direction at the pile head.
This simple empirical rule is based on standard fixed end column theory (refer to any standard
structural mechanics texts).
The software assumes a pivot point level (the pivot point being the point of rotation and the point
where passive resistance reverses). The software then calculates a stability level at which shear
equilibrium is achieved. If moment equilibrium does not also occur at that level, then the pivot point
is incorrect and the calculation is repeated until the pivot point and stability level are both determined.
The short pile method should generally not be used to determine the required length of reinforcement
cages or piles unless the user is satisfied that this is adequate.

4 Shaft Design
The software window will appear as shown below when the shaft design tab is selected.
The graphics and available options will change to suit the pile type selected on the "Pile Definition"
tab. The three main areas of the tab are described in more detail in the following sections.
4.1 ULS Pile shaft forces frame

The pile shaft forces frame will appear as shown below.

The tick box (selected by default) allows the automatic generation of the ULS shaft forces to be derived
from the data and the lateral load analysis already defined in the project. The calculated forces are
shown in the lower four text boxes and are not editable. De-selecting this option puts an alternative
set of loads into the text boxes and enables editing. Using this option allows moments and shears
defined by others to be applied to the piles rather than the moments and shears from the lateral load
analysis.
The top two text boxes contain the additional partial factors to be applied to the previously calculated
axial and lateral loads for the purpose of shaft section design. These factors depend on the saftert
factor format selected earlier. The factors are editable only if the user defined values option is selected
in the “Design reference” frame in the "Analysis Options" tab.
The third text box defines the minimum bending moment applied to the pile in terms of an eccentricity
of the vertical load. This minimum eccentricity is defined in Eurocode 7 as stated on the form. It is only
editable if the user defined values option is selected in the “Design reference” frame in the "Analysis
Options" tab.
4.2 Materials frame

The pile shaft design parameters frame for a bored or CFA pile is shown below.
Other types of piles will cause this frame to appear differently. The steel driven piles only have a steel
grade box available for editing. The options available are those permitted by Eurocode 7, BS EN
1536:2010+A1:2015 and BS 8004:2015.
4.3 Design checks grid

The design checks grid appears with the number of checks appropriate to the pile type selected.

More information on the design checks carried out is given in the next two sections.
A green background to the description indicates the calculated value is at least 10% better than
required.
An amber (orange) background indicates the calculated value is under the limit but within 10% of the
limit.
A red background indicates the check has failed and some change to the pile data is required.
4.4 EC2 Concrete Design

The general requirements of EC2 are followed as modified by BS 8004:2015 clause 6.9.2. It is assumed
that piles are constructed in accordance with the execution standard BS EN 1536:2010+A1:2015. The
permitted bar spacing and steel areas are taken from EC2 except where superseded by BS EN
1536:2010+A1:2015 which is subsequently repeated in BS 8004:2015 clause 6.9.2.
The structural axial compression resistance is derived from the equation and partial factors in BS
8004:2015 Clause 6.9.2.1.
The structural axial tension resistance is derived from the tensile capacity of the reinforcement alone.
The bending resistance model follows the following assumptions in a plane strain analysis.
Use of a rectangular concrete stress block.
Compression stress limited to 0.90 x 0.67fck/(1.50 x 1.10) where (fck is cube strength not cylinder
strength).
Compressive stress block depth limited to 0.8 x depth to the neutral axis.
Compression strain in concrete limited to 0.0035 unless the neural axis is outside the section (i.e. the
whole section is in compression) when the concrete strain is limited to 0.0020.
Steel Youngs modulus E = 200 kN/mm2.
Partial factor on steel yield stress ɣm=1.15.
Tensile reinforcement steel strain is not limited (assuming constant steel stress without strain
hardening)
To determine the bending resistance of a section the software derives a plane strain diagram (based
on the limiting concrete strain and varying depths of the neutral axis) which results in a stress profile
that balances all internal and axial external forces. The bending resistance at the applied axial force is

found by taking moments about the neutral axis for this stress diagram. This process is carried out
twice (once for maximum axial compression and once for minimum axial compression).
The ultimate limit state analysis of shear capacity in rectangular concrete sections is undertaken in
accordance with EN 1992-1-1:2004 Clause 6.2.3. The ultimate limit state analysis of shear capacity in
circular sections is based on a paper "Shear design of circular concrete sections using the Eurocode 2
truss model" by Darby et al published in The Structural Engineer in December 2010. The software uses
equation 8 from this paper for shear link limited strength (VRd,s) which allows the inclusion of a factor
introduced for the use of helix rather than circular links. Equation 14 is used for the concrete crushing
limited shear strength (VRd,max).
The shear resistance expressions in all concrete sections require the definition of an angle for the
inclined concrete truss elements and the software first checks for a truss angle of 21.8 degrees
(Cot(Theta)=2.5). If the shear limit due to shear link yield (VRd,s) is less than the shear limit due to
concrete crushing (VRd,max) then the truss geometry is satisfactory and the maximum shear resistance
of the section is VRd,s. Otherwise the truss angle is steepened (by reducing Cot(Theta) by 0.1) and the
same calculation is repeated. If no solution is found by Cot(Theta)=1 then the shear resistance
becomes VRd,max (at Cot(Theta)=1). Generally for the range of data used in piles the shear resistance is
limited by shear link capacity and the shallowest truss angle is appropriate.
The EC2 design methods do NOT include any provision for slenderness because concrete piles are
generally considered to be fully restrained by the surrounding earth. If for instance a precast pile is
used with a significant part of the pile above ground level then further checks in accordance with
Eurocode 2 section 5.8.3 would be required.

4.5 EC3 Steel Design
The structural design of steel pile shafts is carried out in accordance with Eurocode 3 and the UK
national annex. The requirements of part 5 of Eurocode 3 referring to piling are also considered
together with its national annex.
Steel sections are classified in accordance with EC3 section 5.5. Sections are designed as class 2 (plastic
section modulus) or class 3 sections (elastic section modulus). Class 4 sections are not permitted (only
thin walled CHS would be class 4) because in reality such sections are difficult to handle and drive.
Axial tension resistance is calculated based on EC3 clause 6.2.3.
Axial compression resistance is calculated based on EC3 clause 6.2.4.
Bending Moment resistance is calculated based on EC3 clause 6.2.5.
Shear resistance is calculated based on EC3 clause 6.2.6.
Torsion is assumed to be zero
The reduction in bending resistance due to shear is calculated based on EC3 clause 6.2.8.
The combination of axial and moment effects is calculated using the approximation given in EC3 clause
6.2.1. This is equivalent to saying that the sum of the utilisation factors of axial resistance and moment
resistance (from 6.2.5) should not exceed unity. In reality this is the same as the more complex route
described in 6.2.9.2. for class 3 sections. Note that this combination is based on limiting total axial
stress and is not affected by shear.

The combination of bending, shear and axial (EC3 clause 6.2.10) is not checked because the
combination is only critical at points on the pile shaft where shear exceeds half of the shaft shear
resistance and in piles this does not occur at points of maximum moment. It would be conservative to
check for the peak values of all three forces which occur at different point down the pile shaft.
In all of the above checks the piles are assumed to be fully embedded into the soil such that axial
compression buckling and lateral torsional buckling cannot occur. Where significant parts of the pile
extend above the soil (such as in marine structures) then the effects of buckling should be considered
separately in accordance with EC3 section 6.3.

5 Pile Group Analysis

The group analysis tab allows the capacity of pile groups to be checked for vertical load capacity
(compression and tension). The pile group analysis results are reported as limiting capacities for
individual piles in the group. If the group capacity per pile exceeds that of the single piles then the
single pile capacity is reported as the limiting value. In most cases single pile capacity is the limiting
factor. The group layouts are those considered in CADS RC Pile Cap Designer.
5.1 Group Analysis Tab

The "Group analysis" tab appears as shown below.
5.2 Group Resistance

The load capacity calculation of the group follows similar calculation methods to those used for single
pile analysis. An additional check for soil weight resistance is included as described below. The
perimeter and base areas of groups of known size are easily determined from basic geometry. For
infinite groups, the group checks are carried out on an individual pile within the infinite group. In the
ultimate values, negative skin friction is included as well as soil strength factors.
Ultimate end bearing
The unit bearing capacity of the group is calculated in a similar way to the unit end bearing capacities
for individual piles. The only differences are as follows.
 For granular soils defined by SPT values the SPT is converted to a Phi value using the methods
outlined previously. Unit end bearing is then determined from this Phi value using the Nq
values derived using methods previously outlined.
 For cohesive soil, the Nc value for the group is always taken as nine.
 For chalk soil group unit end bearing is taken as 200 x SPT.
Ultimate shaft friction
Unit perimeter friction is calculated on a similar basis to the unit skin frictions outlined previously. The
only differences being as follows.
 For granular soils Ks = 1 and Delta = Phi. Where soil shear strength is defined by SPT then this
is converted to a Phi value using the method previously outlined.
 For cohesive soils alpha = 1.

 For chalk soils unit skin friction = 0.8 x effective overburden pressure.
Soil weight
This forms the basis of an additional check on tension capacity. The idea of the check is that the piles
pull out a block of soil including a taper angled at 1 horizontal to 4 vertical around the outside of the
group. Friction on the outside of the taper is assumed to be zero. The density of the soil within the
cone is derived from the average density of the soils above the toe of the pile on a linear basis.
Group Details
The group geometry options exactly match those available in CADS Pile Cap Designer. The pile spacing
is the smallest centre to centre distance between piles within the group. The assumed group geometry
is shown in the graphic screen alongside the layout list.
The User’s attention is also drawn to Clause 6.3.3 of BS 8004:2015 which gives guidance on the spacing
of piles in the vicinity of other piles.
Group tension partial factor
Pile group perimeter friction
The "Pile group perimeter friction" frame allows the user to select how the friction is calculated at the
perimeter of a pile group and will only affect the capacities in the pile group analysis. In most situations
in the UK the default selection is adequate.
Group analysis results (for whole group)

The group compression resistance is a total of the group shaft friction and the group end bearing with
appropriate partial factors from the calculation options applied. The group tension resistance is the
minimum from two different checks, as follows.
 The group skin friction without negative skin friction effects divided by the appropriate partial
factors from the calculation options.
 The soil weight value described above divided by the appropriate factor of safety from the
calculation options.
Equivalent single pile result
This is taken from the group capacity divided by the number of piles within the group. The values are
limited to those obtained from the single pile analysis to avoid confusion.

6 Working Platforms
The Working Platform feature is intended as a design tool to automate the calculation of the required
working platform depths for use with tracked plant. The application provides a range of results for
platform depths and allows the user to make an informed choice of an appropriate solution. The most
widely used design method in recent years is that described in the publication BRE 470 "Working
platforms for tracked plant". There have been concerns raised that this method is unrealistically
conservative particularly with a granular subsoil. It appears likely that this design method is
unsustainable in the long term since it causes large volumes of construction materials to be moved
around.
The methods of analysis used in the software have either been used for some time by practicing
engineers or have been derived to reflect the requirements of Eurocode 7. The user must assess the
presented results and select an appropriate solution to the particular design being carried out. There
continue to be incidents of piling rig instability but these appear to be a result of inherent rig instability
rather than any issue concerned with working platforms. In BRE 470 it is recommended that the
maximum grade on the working platform should be limited to 10% but it is likely that gradients of this
order will cause instability in piling rigs.
6.1 Working Platform Tab

The working platform tab appears as shown below.
There are four sub tabs which are described in detail in the following sections.
6.1.1 Loading Tab

The "Platform Loading" sub tab appears as shown below

The working platform loading can be defined for three types of plant selected in the "Plant type"
frame. In all cases the software converts the loading to a rectangular pressure distribution under a
single track. The options are as follows.
Piling rig or known track pressures
Use this option where you have a known load distribution for either a piling rig (from the piling
contractor) or for a crawler crane (either from the manufacturer or from the crane hire company. It is
usual in platform design to ignore any high pressures locally under the foot of the mast of the rig. If
any further support is required in this area (during auger extraction) it should be provided by the use
of spreaders or appropriately designed mats above the platform.
Crawler Crane
Use this option where you know the total weight of the crane plus the weight of the load or lift but
not the bearing pressures. The bearing pressures are derived using the following assumptions.
 1. 67% of the total load is on a single track.
 2. The distribution of pressures is equivalent to a triangular distribution with a length
equivalent to 75% of the track length.
This is a generally conservative rule of thumb for preliminary design purposes. It is better where
possible to get the true load data from the crane manufacturer or the crane hire company or operator.
Outrigger pad
Use this option for a mobile crane outrigger pad or any foundation of a known rectangular size with a
uniform pressure distribution. Where designing for outrigger pads this does not structurally check any
load spreader items.
Bearing pressures
Whichever option is selected the application calculates an equivalent pressure distribution as an input
to the calculation stage. These characteristic bearing pressures are shown in the frame on the left.
Refer to the calculation methods section for an explanation of the two load cases.
6.1.2 Soils and Water Tab

The "Platform Soils and Water" sub tab appears as shown below
Platform Fill Properties

Working platforms are generally constructed from well compacted coarse grained angular materials
laid and compacted in accordance with the Highways Specification. The source materials are usually
crushed rock (crusher run or Type 1) or a recycled material such as crushed concrete (class 6F2 or 6F5).
Where this is not the case the piling platform may need to be checked for its bearing capacity as a

foundation material (refer to BRE 470).
Unlike a Highway embankment the piling platform needs to comprise materials that will support the
piling plant safely but at the same time allow piles to be installed through the platform. Accordingly
unless the subgrade is particularly soft the maximum particle size of the fill materials should be 150
mm with any stone being not more than two thirds of the thickness of the layer being compacted and
should also suit the operations to be undertaken. For driven piles it may be appropriate to have a 75
mm maximum particle size but where the subgrade is particularly soft so that the basal layers of the
platform need to have a particle size greater than 150 mm it may be necessary to excavate locally
through the platform at pile locations or to use a short steel mandrel or spud to enable the pile to be
installed without damage to it. This particularly applies to high strength precast concrete piles.
Compacted crushed graded materials as opposed to as-dug materials generally achieve an internal
angle of friction in excess of 50 degrees when tested. In use however this peak value may degrade
(especially on piling platforms) so a more conservative value of 45 degrees is generally used for the
phi value of the platform material. If there is any doubt about the platform material, site tests should
be specified in the design output.
The bulk density of the platform material will typically be around or above 20kN/m2. Sufficient
drainage and falls should be provided to ensure the platform does not become waterlogged or frozen.
For piling platforms to be used in the winter, the avoidance of frost susceptible materials should be
considered.
Subsoil Properties
There is a simple built in soil library selected using the drop down list. If one of the standard soils is
selected then the four parameters in the boxes below will be determined from the library and are not
available for the user to edit. If you select the custom soil option the four boxes will become enabled
for editing. Note that the saturated density of a soil is never less than the bulk density of the soil. The
submerged density of a soil is calculated by deducting 9.81kN/m3 (the density of water) from the
saturated density of the soil.
Groundwater
The groundwater depth is defined in metres below the formation level (bottom level) of the platform.
6.1.3 Tabular Calculations Tab

The "Platform Tabular Calculations" sub tab appears as shown below

All of the calculation methods are represented by columns. Each method has a column for load case
1 and another column for load case 2. Each row in the table represents a key parameter in the
calculations as follows.
 Platform Depth (mm) - The required minimum depth of the platform rounded up to nearest
10mm.
 Characteristic Bearing (kN/m2) - The applied bearing pressure at the top of the platform (from
the input data).
 Load Width (m) - The loaded width (from the input data).
 Load Length (m) - The loaded length (from the input data).
 Design Width (m) - The loaded width at the platform formation after any load spread.
 Design Length (m) - The loaded length at the platform formation after any load spread.
 Load Factor - Partial factor on loads appropriate to the method and load case.
 Bearing at formation (kN/m2) - Calculated factored bearing pressure at the formation
 Phi Factor - Partial factor applied to Tan(Phi) appropriate to the design method.
 Cohesion Factor - Partial factor applied to cohesive strength appropriate to the design
method.
 Design Platform Phi (deg.) - Phi value for the platform material after applying partial factors.
 Design Platform Delta (deg.) - Delta value for the platform material after applying partial
factors.
 Design Subgrade Phi (deg.) - Phi value for the subgrade material after applying partial factors.
 Design Subgrade C (kN/m2) - Cu value for the subgrade material after applying partial factors.
 Subgrade Density (kN/m3)
 Kp.Tan(Delta) - Value used in the calculation of shear resistance within the platform.
 Bearing Factor - Nc - Bearing capacity factor used in the cohesion term of the bearing
resistance calculation.
 Bearing Factor - Nq - Bearing capacity factor used in the overburden term of the bearing
resistance calculation.
 Bearing Factor - Ng - Bearing capacity factor used in the phi term of the bearing resistance
calculation.
 Shape Factor - Sc - Shape factor used in the cohesion term of the bearing resistance
calculation.
 Shape Factor - Sq - Shape factor used in the overburden term of the bearing resistance
calculation.

 Shape Factor - Sg - Shape factor used in the phi term of the bearing resistance calculation.
 Shape Factor - Sp - Shape factor used in the platform resistance term of the bearing resistance
calculation.
 Platform Component (kN/m2) - The part of the resistance provided by platform shear.
 Cohesive Component (kN/m2) - The part of the resistance provided by the cohesion term of
the bearing capacity equation.
 Overburden Component (kN/m2) - The part of the resistance provided by the overburden
term of the bearing capacity equation.
 Phi Component (kN/m2) - The part of the resistance provided by the phi term of the bearing
capacity equation.
 Total Resistance (kN/m2) - Total bearing resistance (equal to or greater than the bearing at
formation above).
The same table appears in the printed output.
6.1.4 Depth Summary Tab

The "Platform Depth summary" sub tab appears as shown below
This tab is a summary of the platform depths from the table on the previous tab. The depths are the
greater of both load cases. This acts as a handy comparison of the various methods. The BRE method
is not very consistent because the effect of increasing the platform depth is not as significant as you
might expect. The load spread methods are also inconsistent but generally yield thinner required
platforms in cohesive soils. The final choice of platform depth needs to suit the particular conditions
on site. In general terms it is probably not advisable to pick either the thickest or thinnest of the
answers presented here. Some sensitivity trials are recommended in all but the simplest of cases.
6.2 Calculation methods

All of the methods assume a punching shear failure through a stronger upper layer (the platform) into
a weaker sublayer (the subsoil). Eurocode 7 requires that a punching shear failure is considered when
considering this type of foundation (strong layer over a weak layer). The methods described here are
all restricted to single layer subsoil. If multiple layers are present one possible solution is to carry out
a series of designs each with a separate layer and provide a platform for the thickest design solution.

Because of the soils data limitation, the subsoil needs to be defined again for this section rather than
being read from the pile analysis data.
Platform failure models
The application checks the bearing capacity of the defined subsoil under the defined loading
conditions. The platform is assumed to fail in one of two ways.
Vertical shear with shear resistance.
In this case the vertical shear failure creates some shear resistance but the loaded area at the top of
the subsoil is assumed to be the same as that at the top of the platform with no load spread or
distribution through the platform. The shear resistance of the platform is taken to be the passive
resistance available in the unloaded platform multiplied by Tan(Delta).
In all calculations Kp is derived using the formulae given in Annex C2 of Eurocode 7. This results in
different Kp values than those quoted in BRE 470. For the BRE 470 check Delta is defined as (2/3)Phi
but for the remaining methods Delta=Phi is used as the shear is internal soil shear. The shear failure
resistance calculation is the same theory as that used in BRE 470. The shear resistance of the platform
is modified by a shape factor Sp.
Inclined failure plane with no shear resistance.
In this case there is no shear resistance in the inclined failure plane. The load is assumed to spread out
over a wider area at the top of the subsoil which effectively reduces the design bearing pressure.
Load cases
The software uses the BRE 470 convention of load cases 1 and 2. Most piling contractors provide rig
bearing pressure data based on these two load cases. Load case 2 is any load that can be mitigated by
the rig operator (e.g. during auger extraction). Load case 1 is any other load (e.g. travelling or static).
Cranes generally only have load case 1 loads. A higher load factor is used for load case 1.
Subsoil bearing resistance

The subsoil failure is analysed as a spread foundation with the formation level (bottom of platform)
taken as the founding level. The founding level is surcharged by the platform which increases the
subsoil resistance. The applied bearing pressure is also increased to take into account this overburden
above the formation level.
The bearing capacity calculation is undertaken using the classic soil mechanics "triple N" equation.
There are numerous versions of the parameters in this equation but this software follows the guidance
for drained conditions in Annex D of Eurocode 7. The undrained equation in Eurocode 7 is essentially
the same equation as the drained version at the limit of Phi=0.
The failure pressure (in kN/m2) of a foundation of length L and width B is qf where
qf = cNcSc + pNqSq + 0.5ɣBNɣSɣ
where
qf = Bearing resistance (Q/A) in kN/m2
c = Cohesion in kN/m2
p = Overburden pressure at formation level in kN/m2 (platform soil density x depth to formation)
ɣ = Density of subsoil in kN/m3
B = width of the foundation (i.e. the width of a track or outrigger)
Bearing Capacity Factors (from EC7 annex D)
For ɸ=0, Nc = 2 + PI = 5.14
For ɸ>0, Nc = (Nq – 1) / Tan(ɸ)
Nq = eɸTan(ɸ)Tan2(45 + ɸ/2)
Nɣ = 2(Nq - 1)Tan(ɸ)
Shape factors (from EC7 annex D)
For ɸ=0, Sc = 1 + 0.2(B / L)
For ɸ>0, Sc = (Sq.Nq – 1)/(Nq – 1)
Sq = 1 + (B / L)Sin(ɸ)
Sɣ = 1 – 0.3(B / L)
For BRE 470 analysis the overburden related term is always zero as this term is excluded from the BRE
470 method (which is the reason that BRE470 is conservative for granular sub soils).
Water table depth
The depth to groundwater is defined in the data entry. The depth to groundwater affects the density
of the subsoil used in the bearing capacity equations as follows.
If depth to groundwater > 2x loaded width (at platform level) then Density = Bulk Density
If depth to groundwater =0 then Density = Saturated Density - 9.81
If the depth to groundwater lies between these limits then the density taken is linearly interpolated
between these limits.
For the BRE 470 analysis the rules of the original publication are followed so if the depth to
groundwater < 2x loaded width then density is taken to be the submerged value (Saturated Density -
9.81).
Eurocode 7 design methods

The Eurocode 7 design method is a check for ultimate limit state GEO using Design Approach 1 which
is the only design approach allowed by the UK National Annex. Design Approach 1 actually employs
two checks called Combination 1 (C1) and Combination 2 (C2). C1 has higher partial load factors with
unity material factors. C2 uses lower partial load factors combined with partial factors applied to soil
shear strength. A vertical shear plane is assumed in the EC7 analysis.
BRE 470 design method
The key differences to the other analysis types are as follows.
 Overburden component of bearing capacity equation is ignored.
 Water densities determined differently (see section on water table).
The software uses Kp values derived from the numerical method in EC7 Annex D which yields higher
figures than those shown on the graphs in BRE 470. As a consequence, the platform depths may be
slightly thinner than you would generate following the graphs for KpTan(delta) in the original
publication.
Lumped factor of safety design methods
Three methods employing lumped factors of safety are employed.
Lumped FOS with vertical shear
Lumped FOS with load spread at 2V:1H
Lumped FOS with load spread at 1V:1H (45 degrees)
In the methods with inclined failure planes in the platform the shear resistance in the platform is
assumed to be zero. The last two of these methods were traditionally used by many engineers prior
to the publication of BRE 470.
In all of these methods the following lumped FOS (applied as a load factor) are used.
Load Case 1 - Load factor = 2.50
Load Case 2 - Load factor = 2.00
Summary of design methods
EC7 Combination 1
Angle of platform failure Vertical
Load factor Load Case 1 1.50
Load Case 2 1.30
Partial factor on Tan(Phi) 1.00
Partial factor on Cohesion 1.00
EC7 Combination 2
Load Case 2 1.00
BRE 470

Load Case 2 1.20
(Overburden term of resistance ignored)
Lumped FOS with vertical shear
Load Case 2 2.00
Lumped FOS with load spread at 2V:1H
Angle of platform failure 2V:1H
Load Case 2 2.00
Lumped FOS with load spread at 1V:1H (45 degrees)
Angle of platform failure 1V:1H
Load Case 2 2.00

7 Printing
The software window appears as shown below when the printing tab is displayed.
The section above the tab is a print preview. Maximising the software on the computer display will
make the preview more readable. Alternatively selecting the button `Large print preview‘ will show a
fully legible image. The different pages of the printed output can be displayed using the buttons in the
"Print preview page controls" frame on the right of the tab.
The project information and the user details appear in the title block at the top of each page of the
printed output. The user details are automatically stored and will appear in future projects. They can
be edited in any project.
The items to print select the output to be printed and broadly reflect the tabs already described. It is
possible for instance to print out a platform design without any reference to a pile design.
The print button will display the standard windows print dialog where the user can select the target
printer (including a PDF printer if desired). The user can also select any other options the printer will
allow such as double sided printing and multiple copies.

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CADS BEARING PILE DESIGNER

Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

1.2 Program Description

1 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

 Eurocode 7 geotechnical analysis.

1.3 Notes on using CADS Bearing Pile Designer

2 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

 EN 1997-1 is intended to be used with EN 1990 and EN 1991 to EN 1999

3 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

4 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

1.5 Starting BPile

1.6 Working with BPile

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2 Single Pile Analysis

2.1 Top Section of the Software Window

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Single pile axial results summary frame

this screenshot is wrong, not the current one!

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2.2 Pile Definition Tab

Pile Type Frame

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Applied Loads (unfactored actions) Frame

2.3 Soils and Water Tab

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2.3.1 Soil Properties

10 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

11 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

Note these comments:

2.3.2 Deleting or adding a soil strata

12 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

2.3.3 Soils Generator

2.3.4 Friction ratios

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2.3.5 Unit resistance limits

2.4 Analysis options tab

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2.4.1 Design Reference and Partial factors

15 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

16 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

2.5 Axial Resistance

2.6 Serviceability Limit State Design

17 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

18 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

3 Lateral Load Analysis

3.1 Lateral Load Calculations

19 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

20 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

4.1 ULS Pile shaft forces frame

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4.2 Materials frame

4.3 Design checks grid

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4.4 EC2 Concrete Design

23 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

24 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

4.5 EC3 Steel Design

25 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

26 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited

5 Pile Group Analysis

5.1 Group Analysis Tab

5.2 Group Resistance

27 Copyright © Computer and Design Services Limited