Pile Embedment into Pile Cap

[mrengineer]

If you have a pile cap with mainly vertical loads,no fixity requirements, and no embedment required such as for steel H-piles why is it still routine to embed the piles 4"-6" or so into the cap? (Say for example an intrusion mortar pile).

 

[strucguy]

From what I know it is mostly done to achieve integrity and also to provide lateral stability to the pile.

 

[msquared48]

In a seismic shake, unless the pile is embedded in the pilecap, the pilecap WILL walk. With the presence of grace beaqms between the pilecaps, there is far less likelihood of this, but it is still a good practice.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

http://mmcengineering.tripod.com

 

[abusementpark]

I wouldn't go less than 4" embedment for any type of pile. Anything less and I just start to feel uneasy, rightfully so or not.

What in the name of sweet Lincoln is an instrusion mortar pile?

 

[mrengineer]

Abusementpark - "Intrusion mortar" piles are also called auger-cast piles if you are familiar with those - Thanks

 

[msquared48]

Yes, I would also embed Augercast pile, and also use at least one vertical dowell into the pilecap and into any grade beams.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

http://mmcengineering.tripod.com

 

[abusementpark]

Abusementpark - "Intrusion mortar" piles are also called auger-cast piles if you are familiar with those - Thanks

Ahh yes, I like a good augercast pile. One of helluva a pile. We usually do 4" minimum embedment for those with at least a single bar extending into the cap. Use a full cage if the pile has lateral load on it. Watch for low grout takes.