A method for the analysis of large vertically loaded pile groups

An iterative method is described for the analysis of vertically loaded pile groups with a large number of vertical piles. The individual pile response is modelled using load-transfer (t–z) curves while pile–soil–pile interaction is determined using Mindlin's solution. The present method not only keeps all the advantages of the so-called ‘hybrid method’, but also makes it possible for practising engineers to solve problems of large non-uniformly arranged pile groups in a time-saving way using a personal computer. Good agreement between the present method of analysis and the direct method is observed. A case history is analysed and the computed response of a large pile group compares favourably with the field measurement. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.