An evaluation of pile cap design methods in accordance with the Canadian design standard

Abstract

There are a number of design methods that have been described for the design of pile caps, but there has been no consensus on which method provides the best approach for the working designer. This paper describes a study conducted to establish the performance of several pile cap design methods, particularly with respect to the Canadian standard, CSA A23.3-94. Previous research was examined to determine the basis of the design methods and the state of current research. The design methods identified were then applied to pile caps for which test data were available. The theoretical loads obtained using the various design methods were compared with the experimental loads. The results of this study indicate that two design models of the five examined are the most suitable. This study also indicates that the provisions of the Canadian design standard are adequate. A possible refinement of the strut-and-tie model incorporating a geometric limit is also outlined.Key words: building codes, footings, pile caps, reinforced concrete, structural design.