Análise numérica tridimensional de bloco de coroamento: estudo de caso

Abstract

This study presents a three-dimensional numerical analysis of an alternative solution adopted for a deep foundation after the impossibility of executing one of the piles originally specified in the design. The initial system consisted of a pile cap supported by four reinforced concrete piles, which was replaced by a configuration with three piles interconnected by diagonal beams in an “X” arrangement. The analysis was carried out using the RS3 software based on the Finite Element Method, considering the soil-structure interaction between the pile cap, piles, and surrounding soil mass. The behavior of the conventional and alternative solutions was compared in terms of load-bearing capacity, stiffness, and load distribution. The results indicate that the alternative solution presents a reduction in admissible load capacity and increased deformability, associated with a non-uniform redistribution of loads among the piles. It is concluded that, although the alternative solution is technically feasible, its performance is inferior to the conventional system, and its adoption should be supported by specific analyses to ensure foundation safety and efficiency.