Finite element analysis of tapered piles subjected to axial loading

This paper presents a finite element analysis of axially loaded tapered piles subjected to vertical static loads, The pile behaviour is assumed to be linear elastic. The Drucker-Prager failure criterion is used to model the nonlinear characteristics of soils. The interface element is used to investigate the effects of slip, which occurs at the soil-pile interface. The bearing capacity of tapered and semi-tapered piles is determined and compared with that of a cylindrical pile of the same length and volume. The load-settlement behaviour of tapered and semi-tapered piles is also investigated. The model is verified using available experimental data. Based on the results obtained, it can be stated that the bearing capacity of a tapered pile is greater than that of a uniform pile of the same volume and length. Other interesting features of tapered piles are also described and compared with those of uniform piles.