Challenges with Large Diameter Foundation Elements

Abstract:

Recent innovations in construction equipment combined with increased load carrying demands for foundation elements have resulted in significantly larger and deeper foundation elements that have tested our capabilities. Challenges have emerged in many areas including equipment requirements, materials standards, and construction means and methods. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has completed a series of research efforts, and policy changes related to design and construction issues, and acceptance standards to address advances occurring with driven pile and drilled shaft foundations, but new questions continue unanswered. The presentation will address efforts to optimize drilled shaft design, evaluate design methodologies for large diameter open-ended pipe piles, update guidance for acceptance of large diameter foundation elements, and address future research needs for the geotechnical and foundations community.