Response evaluation for horizontally loaded fixed-head pile groups using 3-D non-linear analysis

The response of laterally loaded pile foundations may be significantly important in the design of structures for such loads. A static horizontal pile load test is able to provide a load–deflection curve for a single free-head pile, which significantly differs from that of a free- or fixed-head pile group, depending on the particular group configuration. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the influence of the interaction between the piles of a group fixed in a rigid pile cap on both the lateral load capacity and the stiffness of the group. For this purpose, a parametric three-dimensional non-linear numerical analysis was carried out for different arrangements of pile groups. The response of the pile groups is compared to that of the single pile. The influence of the number of piles, the spacing and the deflection level to the group response is discussed. Furthermore, the contribution of the piles constituting the group to the total group resistance is examined. Finally, a relationship is proposed allowing a reasonable prediction of the response of fixed-head pile groups at least for similar soil profile conditions. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.