• Geotechnical Engineering
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• v.14 no.5
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• pp.143-162
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• 1998

In the present study, a procedure to predict the depth from the ground surface to the center of bulging failure zone in each of the square granular group piles under a rigid mat foundation is proposed. This analytical procedure is established on the basis of the conical modeling of bulging failure shape and the replacement ratio of soft foundation soils. considering the effect of a share of procedure to estimate the ultimate cylindrical pressure in the area reinforced with granular piles and the ultimate bearing capacity of each of granular piles in group. This analytical procedure is also established on the basis of the pre-determined depth to the zone of bulging failure and an iterative solution technique. Finally the analytical procedures proposed in this study are verified by analyzing the results of 3D finite element analyses, and the predictions of ultimate bearing capacity of granular piles are compared with the results obtained from the tests, empirical equation and 3D finite element analyses.