A new socket roughness factor for prediction of rock socket shaft resistance

Abstract

Prediction of rock socket shaft resistance is a complex problem. Conventional methods for predicting the peak shaft resistance are typically empirically related to unconfined compressive strength through the results of pile load tests. It is shown by reference to international pile socket databases that the degree of confidence which can be applied to these empirical methods is relatively low. Research at Monash University has been directed at understanding and then modelling the complex mechanisms of shear transfer at the interface between the socketed piles and the surrounding rock. Important factors that affect the strength of pile sockets have been identified in laboratory and numerical studies. With a knowledge of the effect of these factors, the reasons for the large scatter around traditional empirical correlations can be deduced. A computer program called ROCKET has been developed which encompasses all aspects of the Monash University rock socket research. This program has been used to develop design charts for rock-socketed piles based on unconfined compressive strength and a nondimensional factor which has been designated the shaft resistance coefficient (SRC). Implementation of the SRC method in design requires an estimate of the likely socket roughness to be made. Very few researchers or practitioners have measured socket roughness, so there is little available guidance in selection of appropriate values. Although many socket load tests are described in the technical literature, the physical parameter which is regularly missing is the socket roughness. With a knowledge of the shaft resistance, and an estimate of all other relevant parameters, the authors have been able to back-calculate the apparent socket roughness using the SRC method. Based on the back-calculated roughness data, socket roughness guidelines for use in analysis and design of rock sockets have been proposed. Using these roughness guidelines, it is shown that the SRC method is able to predict the scatter observed in previously published international load test databases.Key words: rock socket, drilled shaft, shaft resistance, roughness, shaft resistance coefficient.