Deep Foundations – Overview and Design Example

Deep foundation systems provide improved resistance to settlement and can safely support buildings founded on very poor soils. Deep foundations can also improve building performance by providing resistance to uplift loading. The design of deep foundations involves both the Geotechnical Engineer and the Structural Engineer. Thus, it is wise for the structural engineer to become more educated regarding deep foundation design. This presentation will provide an overview of deep foundations, including various systems in common use, such as driven precast concrete and structural steel piles, augercast piles, cast-in-drilled-hole piles, and micropiles. Mr. Harris will discuss the behavior of each system, as well as its best uses and limitations. The presentation will also include a worked example design for cast-in-place concrete piles resisting vertical and lateral loads.