Load capacity evaluation of different typologies of short and small diameter piles

It is common to observe residences with a high number of pathologies related to differential settlements in the municipality of Cruz Alta, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Motivated by this perspective the first Geotechnical Engineering Experimental Field was implemented in the municipality. Standard penetration test and cone penetration test was conducted to characterize the subsoil and execute 17 excavated piles: nine compression piles and eight reaction piles. This technical note presents and discusses the results of the geotechnical load capacity obtained with the static load test in three different pile conditions: conventional piles, floating piles, and reinforced piles by inserting a crushed stone layer compacted at the bottom of the drilling. The piles evaluated have a length of 3 m and a diameter of 30 cm. The piles are immersed in a layer of unsaturated laterite soil. Conventional piles are extensively executed in the municipality due to the limited equipment of the companies offering this service. In summary, the piles presented low bearing capacity, however, the reinforced piles proved to be a viable alternative in terms of increased resistance. The conventional piles presented low load capacity and significant settlements. The insertion of the reinforcement at the tip of the pile resulted in a resistance gain in the range of 31%. The study of floating piles was important to understand the behavior of the pile base. This technical note will enable the geotechnical understanding for future researchers or designers who will work with this soil condition in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.