Load-Settlement Model of Rock Sockets from O-Cell Testing

This paper presents a method for modeling the load‐displacement behavior of rock‐socketed drilled shafts, which is needed when designing for service limit states. The method is best applied in conjunction with a field load test conducted on a shaft that may have smaller dimensions than the productions shafts, but is embedded in rock mass with similar engineering characteristics. The method fills a need for appropriate design for service limit states according to AASHTO LRFD Specifications (AASHTO 2007). A case history in which the authors are involved is presented in order to illustrate the application of this method to the design of a highway bridge to be supported on rock‐socketed drilled shafts.