Análise numérica em elementos finitos 3d de um bloco sobre duas estacas

Abstract

The Brazilian construction sector has experienced significant growth, driving demand for increasingly efficient foundation solutions. In this context, 3D finite element analysis has emerged as a fundamental tool for optimizing foundation designs. Considering the contact between the pile cap and the soil—often neglected in conventional designs—proves crucial for obtaining reliable results. In this study, Rocscience’s RS3 software was used to perform numerical simulations that evaluate the influence of this contact on foundation behavior. The results indicate that accounting for this contact can significantly contribute to the total foundation load, absorbing up to 19% of it, thereby reducing the load transferred to the piles and enabling further design optimizations. This approach is compared to conventional designs, which often disregard this interaction, potentially leading to conservative and undersized settlement estimates. Furthermore, the research highlights the economic and environmental benefits of optimizing foundation design, including reductions in concrete and steel use, leading to a lower environmental impact. This study emphasizes the importance of detailed analyses to achieve superior structural and economic performance in high-standard projects.