Comparison of the lateral response of an in-flight vibratory-driven and a hand-driven at 1-g pile in sand in a geo-centrifuge
Luc Simonin (Université Catholique de Louvain)
Pauline André (Université Catholique de Louvain)
Hadrien Rattez (Université Catholique de Louvain)
Tristan Quinten (TU Delft - Civil Engineering & Geosciences)
William Ovalle Villamil (TU Delft - Civil Engineering & Geosciences)
Miguel A. Cabrera (TU Delft - Civil Engineering & Geosciences)
Stijn François (Katholieke Universiteit Leuven)
George Anoyatis (Katholieke Universiteit Leuven)
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Abstract
The installation method of offshore monopiles can significantly influence their lateral capacity and stiffness, which are critical parameters in foundation design for offshore wind turbines. Vibratory driving has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional impact driving, offering potential reductions in noise emissions and installation time. However, its effect on the lateral response of the driven pile remains insufficiently understood. This work presents the development and first use of a combined in-flight vibratory installation and cyclic lateral loading apparatus within TU Delft’s geotechnical centrifuge. The system enables the vibratory installation of model piles at prototype stress levels, followed by monotonic or cyclic lateral loading without sample repositioning. Two initial cyclic tests are reported: one with a pile manually inserted at 1g, and one vibro-driven in-flight. The results provide preliminary insight into the influence of the installation method on the lateral response of the pile: the vibratory driven pile displays a stiffer response as well as more capacity than the wished-in place pile. The apparatus offers a unique platform for future studies, including the planned addition of impact-driven tests and extended cyclic loading tests. This work lays the foundation for more comprehensive investigations into the link between offshore pile installation technique and in-service lateral performance.