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Module code

CP1

Associated programs

Modules required for installation

In CYPECAD

In CYPE 3D

In Foundation elements

Piles I: Calculation of sinking load

With the "Piles I: Calculation of subsidence load" module, the CYPECAD, CYPE 3D and Foundation elements programs can calculate the sinking load in deep foundations using reinforced concrete piles. This module complements the design of deep foundations using pile caps and verifies the bearing capacity of the piles under different loading conditions, taking into account the characteristics of the soil and the pile itself.

Module overview

The module can define multiple soil types, including cohesive soils, granular soils and rock formations. Each soil type can be configured with its specific geotechnical properties, allowing for an analysis tailored to the site characteristics. Furthermore, the defined soils can be reused, which optimises the modelling and design process.

Piles can be either prefabricated or cast-in-situ, with a square or circular section.

Analysis method and checking results

The sinking resistance is obtained by considering the resistance per tip and per shaft of the soil layer in contact with the pile. The calculation method used is based on analytical formulations based on the Mohr-Coulomb criterion taken from the existing specific technical literature.

The analysis mode of the pile sinking resistance can be selected:

  • By indicating the "Geotechnical parameters".
  • By indicating the "Allowable bearing pressures".
    This option is used to calculate the pile considering the allowable bearing pressures defined in the geotechnical study. This feature also introduces the possibility to include the effect of negative friction by entering negative values.

This selection is made in the "Job" menu, accessing "General data", clicking on the "Foundation elements with external fixity" option and then on the "Advanced settings" option.

The verification has been implemented for the entire collection of codes available in the CYPECAD, CYPE 3D and Foundation elements programs.

The "Code checks" option, accessible from the editing panel of the foundation elements, allows users to consult the analyses made to verify the safety of the piles.