Science Research  Academic Press

A new model for mechanical calculation of h-type anti-slide piles

Xu  Liu 
Guofu  Sun 
Jixiang  Li 
Yunlong  Chen 
Keywords: h-type anti-slide piles; mechanical calculation; parameter sensitivity analysis.

Abstract

Faced with the daunting complexity of large-scale slope instabilities, conventional anti-slide pile (AP) designs often fall short in effectively mitigating these intricate geotechnical challenges due to inherent limitations. It is within this context that the h-type anti-slide piles (HTPs) emerge as a groundbreaking frame-style retaining structure, outperforming standalone piles in terms of mechanical prowess, largely due to their significantly augmented lateral stiffness. However, the existing analytical calculation methods for HTPs reveal significant inadequacies. On one hand, current theories are hindered by their failure to fully account for Soil-Structure Interaction (SSI), overlooking the intricate interplay between the multi-layered geological strata that pervade the piles' surroundings. On the other hand, prevailing computational models fail to give due consideration to the potential impact of vertical deformation within the pile shaft on the internal force distribution throughout the entire structural system. This study ingeniously extends the classical Winkler foundation beam model to cater to the unique computational demands of HTPs. A meticulous comparative analysis is conducted using the cutting-edge finite element software Midas GTS NX to validate the precision of this novel model. Furthermore, a parameter sensitivity analysis is executed, examining the effects of the distance between the front and behind piles, cross beam position, and differences in soil properties at the bases of front and behind piles. The research findings indicate that the longer the distance between the front and behind piles, the smaller the soil pressure borne by the behind piles while the greater borne by the front piles. There exists a nonlinear relationship between the position of the cross beam and the maximum bending moment in the shafts of the behind piles, characterized by a decrease followed by an increase in the maximum bending moment while the cross beam position approaches the top. Notably, disparities in soil layer characteristics at the pile base exert influence on moment distribution, underlining the paramount importance of factoring in vertical force system equilibrium during the design phase. These insightful findings not only enrich our comprehension of the mechanical behavior of HTPs but also furnish invaluable theoretical guidance for the development of HTPs design theory. In essence, this research represents a significant stride forward in optimizing the design and performance of HTPs in tackling the formidable challenges posed by large-scale slope instabilities, thereby contributing to enhanced geotechnical engineering practices and safer infrastructure projects.