Simulation Study of the Load-settlement Behavior of a Single Pile Using the Osterberg-cell Test Based on the Load Transfer Theory

In this paper, a theoretical relationship between the load and settlement of a single pile in an Osterberg-Cell test was developed, considering the joint action of piles and soil and a detailed deformation analysis was conducted based on the load transfer theory of piles. The shear test and the compression test were used to determine the load transfer parameters for soil layers around a pile at various depths as well as the parameters for pile-tip soils. Based on this method, a simulation analysis program was applied to determine the location of the balance point in the Osterberg-Cell test to provide a reference for the test design. The analytical methods presented in this paper could be considered practical because the results from the simulation test and on-site measurement indicate that the theoretically predicted result is consistent with the measurements. A reasonable selection of the location of the hydraulic jack-like device (O-cell) could maximize the bearing capacity of testing piles to obtain a more accurate ultimate bearing capacity. This study provides a reference for the design of the Osterberg-Cell test as well as pile foundations.