Deep Foundation Basics

What is the primary purpose of pile foundations?

• To transfer dead load to the upper structure

• To transfer loads to a deeper, more stable soil or rock strata

• To increase the aesthetic appeal of the structure

• To provide shade for the building and improve its aesthetic value

Which type of foundation is suitable for areas with high water tables?

• Spread foundation

• Raft foundation

• Strip foundation

• Pile foundation

What is the main difference between caisson foundations and pile foundations?

• Piles are hollow cylindrical structures while caissons are solid columns.

• Caissons are driven into the ground while piles are sunk into the ground.

• Caissons are smaller in diameter than piles.

• Caissons are large diameter, hollow cylindrical structures sunk into the ground, while piles are long, slender columns driven into the ground.

When are drilled shafts commonly used in construction?

• When building small residential homes

• When a weak foundation is needed for temporary structures

• When a strong foundation is needed to support structures like bridges, high-rise buildings, and retaining walls.

• When constructing underground tunnels

What are the key advantages of using pier foundations?

• Expensive, harmful to the environment, limited to specific soil types, difficult access to utilities

• Time-consuming, not eco-friendly, only suitable for certain soil types, no access to utilities

• Inefficient, damaging to the environment, restricted to specific soil types, challenging access to utilities

• Cost-effective, environmentally friendly, suitable for various soil types, easy access to utilities

How are sheet pile walls installed in construction projects?

• Sheet piles are glued or welded together on-site

• Sheet piles are inflated like balloons

• Interlocking sheet piles are driven into the ground using vibratory hammers or hydraulic presses.

• Sheet piles are lifted manually and inserted by labours into place

What are the main reasons for using underpinning techniques in building projects?

• To add unnecessary complexity to the project

• To experiment with new construction methods

• To strengthen foundation, correct structural issues, support additional loads, prevent settlement, and increase stability.

• To reduce costs by cutting corners and make it more environmental friendly

What are the different types of pile foundations?

• Sheet piles

• Tension piles, sheer piles and bored piles

• Settlement piles

• Friction piles, End-bearing piles, Combination piles

What are the key components of a caisson foundation?

• Steel cables, suspension bridge, pylons

• Timber piles, gravel, concrete blocks

• Concrete slab, steel beams, anchor bolts

• Watertight chamber, cutting edge, shaft

What factors determine the depth of a drilled shaft?

• Material color, Shaft diameter, Weather conditions

• Drilling speed, Equipment brand, Noise pollution

• Shaft length, Construction worker's height, Time of day

• Soil conditions, load requirements, structural design, and environmental considerations