By: Birendra Kumar Singh
Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
Abstract
The design and assessment of pier foundations are crucial due to the substantial loads they must
support. Piers are subjected to significant structural and dynamic loads, requiring a robust
foundation system to ensure stability and prevent excessive settlement or failure. A mat foundation is
typically selected to distribute these heavy loads over a large area, minimizing pressure on the
underlying soil. The bearing capacity is assumed to be based on the presence of a rocky strata, which
provides the necessary strength to withstand high load intensities at the foundation base. The depth of
the foundation must be carefully determined, accounting for water penetration through the topsoil
and the influence of the groundwater table, especially when it is located above the footing. This
necessitates a deep foundation to mitigate the risk of soil weakening and ensure long-term stability. In
areas where the topsoil is moist and the underlying soil is in a saturated condition, the soil’s bearing
capacity is considerably reduced. To prevent excessive settlement or foundation failure, it becomes
essential to extend the foundation deeper, reaching stable, less permeable soil or rock layers that can
support the structure’s load more effectively. Additionally, environmental factors, such as fluctuating
groundwater levels, moisture penetration, and seasonal changes between wet and dry conditions can
adversely affect the foundation’s performance over time. Saturated soils pose significant challenges
by increasing the likelihood of differential settlement, which can compromise the structural integrity
of the pier. Therefore, this paper presents a comprehensive assessment of foundation design for piers,
focusing on critical geotechnical factors, the effects of soil moisture and saturation, and strategies to
ensure long-term durability and safety of the structure under various environmental conditions. This
assessment serves as a guide for designing pier foundations in challenging soil environments where
heavy loads and water-related factors are significant considerations.
Keywords: Pier foundation design, soil saturation effects, deep foundations, groundwater influence, structural stability
Citation:
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