Torsional vibration of a tapered pile considering circumferential support of surrounding soil

Abstract

The tapered pile is usually divided into finite segments along the vertical direction due to its variable cross-section when investigating its torsional dynamic characteristics. However, an annular projection would be formed at the contact surface of the adjacent pile segments due to the difference in radius, through which the surrounding soil will apply the circumferential support on the pile segment. In this study, the Voigt model is adopted to model the circumferential support of the surrounding soil acting on the annular projection. On this basis, an amended impedance function transfer method is established combining with the circumferential stress equilibrium equations and circumferential displacement continuity conditions at the contact surface of the adjacent pile segments. The shear complex stiffness transfer method is employed to consider the construction disturbance during pile installation. Then, an improved analytical solution for the torsional vibration of the tapered pile considering the circumferential support of the surrounding soil is established by solving the equations for the soil and pile. Based on the solution, the torsional vibration of the tapered pile is investigated and the influence of the circumferential support of the surrounding soil is revealed under different pile parameters and construction disturbance conditions.