Reliability-based calibration of resistance factors for static bearing capacity of driven steel pipe piles

As part of a study to develop load and resistance factor design (LRFD) codes for foundation structures in South Korea, resistance factors for the static bearing capacity of driven steel pipe piles were calibrated in the framework of the reliability theory. A database of 52 static load test results was compiled, and the data from these load test piles were sorted into two cases: a standard penetration test (SPT) N-value at pile tip (i) less than 50 and (ii) equal to or more than 50. Reliability analyses and resistance factor calibration for the two static bearing capacity analysis methods adopted in the Korean Design standards for foundation structures were performed using the first-order reliability method (FORM) and the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS). Reliability indices and resistance factors computed by the MCS are statistically identical to those computed by FORM. Target reliability indices were selected as 2.0 and 2.33 for the group pile case and 2.5 for the single pile case. The resistance factors recommended from this study are specific for the pile foundation design and construction practice and the subsurface conditions in South Korea.