Abstract: Based on the framework of FEM software ABAUQS, the three-dimensional numerical analysis for effective length of super-long and large-diameter pile groups is provided. For the pile groups of different arrangements under vertical loading, the effective pile-length was analyzed with the method of bearing capacity control. The results show that the effective pile-length increases with pile number while decreases with the space between piles. The corresponding bearing capacity decreases with pile number while the space between piles has little effect on the corresponding bearing capacity.

Key words: super-long and large-diameter pile groups, effective length of piles, bearing capacity, finite element analysis