Centrifuge model testing of Fin Piles in sand

This paper presents the results of a series of centrifuge model tests undertaken to evaluate the lateral response of circular piles fitted with fins. The geometry of the fins in terms of their length and orienta-tion with regard to the direction of loading (i.e. projected area), and depth of embedment were investigated. The study was conducted at an enhanced acceleration level of 50 gravities in medium to dense uniformly graded dry sand. Only monotonic lateral loading was applied, and the results are presented through load ver-sus displacement plots, from which lateral capacities are derived. The data set obtained from the tests is com-pared and appraised with data from other researchers and the influence of the fin geometry on the develop-ment of lateral capacity is discussed.