LPile Loads

[geot88]

Hi all, I'd like to be clear when analyzing driven piles under seismic loads.
First, I calculated the axial capacity of an individual driven pile with APILE. Let's say I need 8 piles for that structure.
Then, I need to analyze an indiviudal pile with LPILE. At the loading menu, should I divide the seismic load by 8, considering that each pile will support the seismic lateral load in equal magnitude? Eventhough that is not the real case...
How can I calculate the seismic load acting on that pile? I know I should start from the Z factor provided in our local code and the Soil Profile Classification.

Thanks!

 

[GeoPaveTraffic]

You need to use p-y reduction factors to determine the lateral capacity of each pile. The reduction factors depend on the pile spacing and the row. Run LPile with different loads to determine the deflection at the top of the pile for each pile in the cap. Then you match deflections to determine the load capacity of the cap for a given deflection. Compare that curve to the required load and you know how much deflection the cap will experience.

Mike Lambert