Tests on Model Piled Rafts in Sand: Measured Settlements Compared with Finite Element Predictions

Abstract Laboratory tests were carried out on non-piled rafts, single piles, surface contacting and non surface-contacting piled rafts which made of aluminum instrumented with strain gauges deflection gauges. The foundations installed in dry sand contained a large metal tank to minimize boundary effects. Maintained loads applied each foundation until failure was closely approached. In parallel, analyses performed using PLAXIS™ 3-D finite element program compare the calculated measured load-settlement trends hence assess influence soil stiffness behaviour. results confirmed that group efficiency non-surface increased increasing pile–pile spacing approached unity at equivalent 8D (D = pile diameter). data obtained from provided valuable insight into load-transfer characteristics different subsequently proved capacity raft is significantly enhanced compared either or raft.