Optimizing helical pile foundations: a comprehensive study on displaced soil volume and group behavior
Eliomar Gotardi Pessoa
Abstract
The use of continuous helix piles, or screw piles, has gained popularity in foundation engineering due to their efficient installation in various soil types. The performance of these piles is significantly influenced by the volume of soil displaced during installation, which impacts load capacity and the overall foundation behavior. This study presents a predictive model that estimates the displaced soil volume based on geometric and mechanical parameters, including pile diameter, depth, and soil properties. The model is validated using field test data and can be adjusted for different soil conditions, enhancing its applicability for diverse construction projects. Machine learning techniques, such as artificial neural networks, further refine the model's accuracy, enabling better predictions of displaced soil volume in heterogeneous soils. The study also reviews various studies on helical piles, including those focused on the axial behavior, seismic response, and group behavior of these piles. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding soil-pile interaction and suggest optimized configurations and spacing for helical piles in group applications. Ultimately, this research provides a comprehensive framework for improving the design, safety, and cost-effectiveness of helical pile foundations, particularly in challenging environments like offshore construction.