Numerical Investigation of Concrete and Helical Pile-Supported Embankments Under Railway Traffic Loading

Abstract

Pile structures increase embankment stability and settlement control. Recent research has focused on helical piles' enhanced compressive and tensile performance, rapid installation, and absence of concrete problems.   This numerical study compares helical and concrete pile-supported embankments. A three-dimensional finite element model was developed using ABAQUS software to evaluate soft soil embankments with equal pile length and diameter.   The numerical model was verified by field and lab measurements. Helical piles decrease embankment, soft soil settling, and control lateral displacement better than concrete piles. Furthermore, the distribution of axial forces along the embedded depth demonstrates that helical piles exhibit higher bearing capacity and function in a frictional manner. The inclusion of a pile cap was also examined, revealing that it enhances load distribution, reduces vertical settlement by 19%, and improves stress transfer efficiency. However, adding additional helical blades to the pile body does not significantly improve embankment performance and primarily affects the load transfer mechanism at specific spacing ratios.