Abstract
In this study, a total of twenty one model tests were performed on single piles embedded in dense sand to investigate the influence of compressive loads on uplift capacity of piles. The tests were carried out using smooth steel pile with a 25-mm outside diameter and a 55-mm length. The piles were embedded in uniform deposit of dense sand for depth-to-diameter ratios of 10, 14 and 20. Static compressive loads of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of the ultimate compressive pile capacity were applied to the model piles and the piles were subjected to pull out loads. The experimental results showed that the percentage of compressive loads is a significant parameter influencing the net uplift capacity of the pile. The net uplift capacity decreases with the increase in the percentage of compressive loads. There is almost a gradual decrease in net uplift capacity with increase in compressive loads. Maximum decrease in net uplift capacity is observed at the 100% of compressive loading..