Evaluation of 1-G Similitude Law in Predicting Behavior of a Pile-Soil Model

Abstract

A series of 1-g shaking table tests was performed using a pile-soil model to verify the existing similitude law used in 1-g shaking table tests. Modeling of the model technique was used for three different sizes of the model, manufactured according to Iai's similitude law, and tests were carried out while varying input parameters, such as input frequency and input ground acceleration. Evaluation of the accuracy of Iai's scaling factor of a frequency showed that the maximum error in the converted frequency could be within 17%, 35% and 55% when the scaling factor is 2, 5 and 20, respectively. Combining the error occurring in the estimation of frequency, with the possible error occurring in the test results, the maximum error was found to be less than 9%, 21% and 59% when the scaling factor was 2, 5, and 20, respectively, when the frequency ratios in the model tests were smaller than 0.6. Therefore, it can be concluded that the 1-g shaking model test, based on Iai's similitude law, can be used on a quantitative basis to predict the dynamic behavior of a pile foundation.

Keywords:

• 1-g shaking table test
• frequency ratio
• natural frequency
• pile foundation
• similitude law

Notes

*Flexural rigidity applied in the tests.

**Flexural rigidity required to satisfy Iai's similitude law.

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