Abstract:

This scientific work, is the result of the study of some Semi-Empirical methods used for estimation of the load capacity of the soil-pile assembly, using data from the Standard Penetration Test (SPT). Like case of study, the construction of the Central Hospital of Jing Zhou (1st phase), located in China, Hubei Province, City of Jing Zhou is used. For this paper, three Semi-Empirical methods, developed in countries outside China, and already used in other parts of the world, were chosen. These methods are: the methods of Aoki and Velloso, the method of Decourt and Quaresma, and the method of Meyerhof. The results of the Semi-Empirical methods under study are compared with the test results of static load tests performed on site, as recommended by the national Standards (Chines), and local regulations. In addition to the Semi-Empirical methods mentioned above, the relevant provisions of the technical specifications for building foundations (DB42/242-2003) and technical specifications for construction piles (JGJ94-2008) are used. At the end, comparisons are made between the results of the methods under study, the results of static load tests (slow loading) performed on site, the results of the GEO5 Software, and the results of characteristics value of the single pile (Ra), according (DB42/242-2003). In a general vision, with this work the following conclusion was reached: Using the Meyerhof method, the value of Qu was greater than the value of the load test, but it is also the method that presents the values closest to the values of the static load test performed on the spot, with a deviation of 2% in relation to the value of the load test; The Aoki and Velloso method, in addition to providing a value of Qu lower than the value of the static load test, thus ensuring greater safety, also provides acceptable values in comparison to the values of the load test, with a deviation of 6%; The Decourt and Quaresma method, although giving a value of less than the value of the static load test, gave values with a very large deviation from the value of the static load test, being above 10% ; In relation to the software Geo 5, the results are very satisfactory, with a deviation of 0%, in relation to the static load test values.