Experimental Research on Large-Scale Piled Raft Foundations by Model Tests

In this paper, a model test method that imitates the behaviour of a large-scale piled raft foundation by a single pile in circular slithery cavity is described, and a theoretical criterions for judging the failure mechanisms of pile tip is presented. A formula for calculating the ultimate bearing capacity of pile tip is derived. It is showed that the pile spacing has a great influence on the ultimate bearing capacity of pile tip.