Vibration response of saturated sand - foundation system

In this study, the response and behavior of machine foundations resting on dry and saturated sand was investigated experimentally. A physical model was manufactured to simulate steady state harmonic load applied on a footing resting on sandy soil at different operating frequencies. Total of (84) physical models were performed. The parameters that were taken into consideration include loading frequency, size of footing and different soil conditions. The footing parameters are related to the size of the rectangular footing and depth of embedment. Two sizes of rectangular steel model footing were used. The footings were tested by changing all parameters at the surface and at 50 mm depth below model surface. Meanwhile, the investigated parameters of the soil condition include dry and saturated sand for two relative densities; 30 % and 80 %. The dynamic loading was applied at different operating frequencies. The response of the footing was elaborated by measuring the amplitude of displacement using the vibration meter. The response of the soil to dynamic loading includes measuring the stresses inside soil media by using piezoelectric sensors. It was concluded that the final settlement (St) of the foundation increases with increasing the amplitude of dynamic force, operating frequency and degree of saturation. Meanwhile, it decreases with increasing the relative density of sand, modulus of elasticity and embedding inside soils. The maximum displacement amplitude exhibits its maximum value at the resonance frequency, which is found to be about 33.34 to 41.67 Hz. In general, embedment of footing in sandy soils leads to a beneficial reduction in dynamic response (displacement and excess pore water pressure) for all soil types in different percentages accompanied by an increase in soil strength.