ODOT Research Project: Design of Rock-Socketed Drilled Shafts

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The objectives of the Design of Rock-Socketed Drilled Shafts research project are to:

• Development of a design/analysis procedure for rock-socketed drilled shafts in bridge applications
• Development of design charts for ODOT engineers' use in preliminary sizing of rock socket.
• The design chart will be developed based on an extensive parametric study using the load test.
• Results, site-specific strength parameters, and the COM624 program.

Development of relevant testing procedures, using either in-situ or laboratory testing techniques. To develop and validate these analysis/design as well as testing procedures. Lateral load tests of rock socket should be conducted to establish a relevant database pertaining to Ohio's rock formation. Drilled shaft load tests can conveniently be conducted, and the load test results can be used in a back-calculation scheme to derive the site-specific p-y curve parameters. Such derived p-y curves will account for site-specific soil conditions and the construction methods related effects. Furthermore, load tests can help validate design assumptions, ensure construct-ability, and contribute to the establishment of a database. The database should encompass a variety of shaft's diameter, shaft length, and soil types. Furthermore, the database should contain fairly accurate soil investigation information, including soil classification, SPT blow counts, and other relevant soil properties.

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