Collaborative Research on a Novel Vane Device used to Improve Helical Pile Performance for Transportation Structures

Aaron Bradshaw, Ph.D., P.E.
Associate Professor, Civil & Environmental Engineering
University of Rhode Island

Collaborative Research on a Novel Vane Device used to Improve Helical Pile Performance for Transportation Structures

This presentation reports on an ongoing collaborative TIDC project to study the performance of a novel vane device used to improve the lateral and torsional resistance of helical piles. Helical piles are known for their high tensile (uplift) resistance and thus could be a cost effective alternative to conventional foundations for lightweight transportation structures. The talk will highlight some of the collaborative aspects of this project, which have been critical to its success to date. Some preliminary results will also be presented including: (i) simplified numerical modeling to assist in the design of the vane device and load test program, (ii) preliminary efforts to install the vane device to assess constructability, and (iii) preliminary lateral load tests performed on test piles outfitted with the vane device and installed at a clay site.