Welcome to FB-Deep

The FB-Deep computer program is a Windows based program used to estimate the static
axial capacity of drilled shafts and driven piles. The drilled shaft methodology is based upon
Federal Highway Administration reports. Driven pile methodology utilizes two types of ana-
lyses: SPT and CPT. SPT methodology is based on empirical correlations between cone pen-
etrometer tests and standard penetration tests for typical Florida soil types. Unit end
bearing resistance and unit skin friction resistance versus SPT N values are given in the
FDOT research bulletin RB-121, for the different soil types. Driven pile capacity calculated
using CPT data can be determined by three separate methods. The first method is the Sch-
mertmann method proposed by Schmertmann in 1978 (AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Manual). The second
method is the LCPC method proposed by Bustamante and Gianeselli for the French Highway Department in
1982. The third method is the UF method proposed by Bloomquist, McVay and Hu for the FDOT in 2007.

Copyright © 2020 Bridge Software Institute.

Disclaimer

"The opinions, findings, and conclusions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and not neces-
sarily those of the Florida Department of Transportation or the U.S. Department of Transportation."

No Warranty, expressed or implied, is made by the Florida Department of Transportation as to the accuracy
and the functioning of the program text or the results it produces, nor shall the fact of distribution constitute
any such warranty, and no responsibility is assumed by Florida Department of Transportation in any con-
nection therewith.

Prepared in cooperation with the State of Florida Department of Transportation and the U.S. Department of
Transportation.
Introduction

The FB-Deep computer program is a Windows based program used to estimate the static axial capacity of
drilled shafts and driven piles.

The drilled shaft methodology is based upon Federal Highway Administration reports: (a) Reese, L. and
O'Neill, M. (1988) "Drilled Shafts: Construction Procedure and Design Methods", and (b) O'Neill, M.W. et al.
(1996) "Load Transfer for Drilled Shafts in Intermediate Geomaterials". The former presents methods for
estimating drilled shaft capacity in clays or sands, and provides settlement estimates. The latter addresses
intermediate geomaterials, soft rock, qu between 0.5 and 5.0 Mpa (1.7 to 17 tsf) and SPT blow counts of 50 -
100; and provides settlement analyses. Load transfer for rock socketed shafts in Florida limestone is based
upon the methodology described in; (a) FDOT Final Report " An Evaluation of Design Methods for Drilled
Shafts)" (1990), which is also found (b) McVay, M.C. et al. (1992).

Driven pile methodology utilizes two types of analyses: SPT and CPT. SPT methodology is based on empir-
ical correlations between cone penetrometer tests and standard penetration tests for typical Florida soil
types. Unit end bearing resistance and unit skin friction resistance versus SPT N values are given in the
FDOT research bulletin RB-121, for the different soil types.

Driven pile capacity calculated using CPT data can be determined by three separate methods. The first
method is the Schmertmann method proposed by Schmertmann in 1978 (AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design
Manual). The second method is the LCPC method proposed by Bustamante and Gianeselli for the French
Highway Department in 1982. The third method is the UF method proposed by Bloomquist, McVay and Hu
for the Florida Department of Transportation in 2007.

FB-Deep replaces earlier versions of ShaftSPT97. ShaftSPT97 replaced SHAFTUF and SHAFT93 and SPT97.
1 Drilled Shafts

1. Method of Analysis
2. Water Table Elevation
3. Design for Clay
4. Design for Sand
5. Design for Rock
6. Layered Soils
7. Examples

1.1 Shaft: Method of Analysis

The axial capacity of drilled shafts can be calculated as:

Equation: 1.1.a
Qt = Qs + Qb 

where:
Qt = Ultimate shaft capacity
Qs = capacity in skin friction
Qb = Capacity in end bearing

The computations of side resistance (skin friction) and end bearing are presented in separate sections for
clay, sand, and intermediate geomaterial (soft rock). Settlement calculations are also presented. These three
material types (clay, sand, and soft rock) are identified as follows to be compatible with FDOT's SPT97 pro-
gram. There is NO skin friction contribution along the length of the casing.
1.2 Water Table Elevation

The water table elevation is relative to mean sea level. For example, if the inputted ground surface elevation
is 50 feet, and the inputted water table elevation is –10 feet, this would mean the water table elevation is 60
feet below the ground surface.

1.3 Design for Clay

1. Shear Transfer
2. End Bearing
3. Short-Term Settlement
1.3.1 Shaft: Clay Shear Transfer

Figure: 1.3.a Portions of Drilled Shaft Non-Contributory in Friction

The load transfer in side resistance for drilled shafts in clay employs the Alpha (α) method. That is, the
undrained shear strength Cu of clay is found from appropriate soil tests or correlations with insitu tests and
the following equation (Equation: 1.3.a) used to compute the ultimate value if unit load transfer at the depth
z below the ground surface.

fsu = α Cu
Equation: 1.3.a

where
fsu = ultimate unit load transfer in side resistance at depth z
α = empirical factor that varies with depth, (see above table and Figure: 1.3.a) and
Cu = undrained shear strength at depth z,
The total load Qs in side resistance is now computed as:

Equation: 1.3.b

where
 dA = differential area of the perimeter along the side over a specific depth, and
 L1 and L2 = penetration of drilled shaft below ground surface between two layers.

Figure: 1.3.a illustrates the zones where α is assumed to be zero. The setting of α = 0 for a distance of 1 dia-
meter above the base is from the work of Ellison et al. (1971), who showed that the downward movement of
the base of the shaft can result in the development of a tensile crack in the soil near the base. Consequently,
the lateral stress at the base will be reduced causing a reduction in load transfer in skin friction for this zone.
In cases where a clay layer is present above the base, the program takes the arithmetic average of those Cu
values between the top and the bottom of the clay layer. For a belled shaft the Cu are averaged between the
top of the clay layer and to one shaft diameter above the top of the bell (if the bottom of a clay layer is
below the depth of one shaft diameter above the top of the bell). However, if the top of the clay layer falls
within 5 ft (1.52m) below the ground surface, the Cu average starts from the bottom of 5 ft (1.52m). The
user must provide at least one Cu value for each clay layer.
1.3.2 Shaft: Clay End Bearing

The end bearing resistance for drilled shafts in clay is derived from the work of Skempton (1951) as follows:

qb = Nc Cu , qb < 40 tsf (4000 kPa) 

Equation: 1.3.c

where:
qb = unit end bearing for drilled shafts in clay
Nc = 6.0[1 + 0.2(L/B)] Nc < 9
Cu = average undrained shear strength of clay for 3.0 B below the tip
L = total embedment length of shaft
B = diameter of shaft base.

The limiting value of qb shown in Equation 1.3c is merely the largest value of end bearing that has been
measured for clays and is not a theoretical limit (Engling and Reese, 1974) .

FB-Deep interpolates or extrapolates values of Cu at depths of one base diameter of the shaft below the
base. Interpolation and extrapolation depend on the depth of Cu values.
For the calculation of an average Cu value, the program takes an weighted average of all the Cu values
present in above described depth range. An example with hand calculations is shown in Appendix A.

In the case where the shaft base is at the top of a clay layer, FB-Deep takes an area average of Cu values
between the base and three diameter widths below the base. In those rare instances where the clay at the
base is soft, the value of Cu may be reduced by one-third to account for local (high strain) bearing failure.
Furthermore, when the base of the shaft has a diameter greater than 75 inches (1.9 m) consideration should
be given to reducing qb because the settlement required to obtain the ultimate value of qb will be so great
that application of safety factors in the usual range of 2 or 3 may result in excessive short term settlement. It
is therefore recommended that for drilled shafts in stiff to hard clay, with B exceeding 75 inches (1.9 m), that
the following expressions be used to reduce qb to qbr, where qbr is the reduced ultimate end bearing stress,
to which appropriate safety factors are applied.
qbr = Fr qb
Equation: 1.3.d

where:
Fr = 2.5/[aB (inches) + 2.5 b] Fr < 1.0
in which
a = 0.0071 + 0.0021 (L/Bb), a < 0.015
b = 0.45 (Cub)0.5, 0.5 < b < 1.5 and Cub in ksf

These expressions are based upon load tests of large under-reamed drilled shafts in very stiff clay (O'Neill
and Sheikh, 1985) and restrict qbr to be the net bearing stress at a base settlement of 2.5 inches (6.35 cm).
When half or more of the design load is carried in end bearing and a global factor of safety applied, the
global safety factor should not be less than 2.5, unless site specific load tests deem otherwise.
1.3.3 Shaft: Clay Short-Term Settlement

The reference curves are presented in Figure: 1.3.b. The marks represent the values proposed by Reese and
O'Neill [FHWA (1988)] and the solid lines are the adopted curves. It should be observed that a considerable
scatter is present around these curves. . If the short-term settlements or differential settlements appear to be
too great the applied loads can be adjusted accordingly. Normally, if the procedures for establishing ulti-
mate loads are followed, short-term settlements should be restricted to less than one inch (2.54 cm.) when
appropriate safety factors are applied.

Side friction mobilization

fs/fsmax = 0.593157*R/0.12  for R ≤ 0.12
fs/fsmax = R/(0.095155+0.892937*R)   for R ≤ 0.74
fs/fsmax = 0.978929-0.115817*(R-0.74)   for R ≤ 2.0
fs/fsmax = 0.833     for R > 2.0

where R = 100 * Settlement / D

For end bearing mobilization the trendline is given as:
qb/qbmax = 1.1823E-4*R5-3.7091E-3* R4+4.4944E-2* R3-0.26537* R2+0.78436*R for R ≤ 6.5

qb/qbmax = 0.98 for R > 6.5

 Figure: 1.3.b Trend lines for side friction and end bearing in clay

1.4 Design for Sand

1. Side Shear Resistance
2. End Bearing
3. Immediate Settlement 
1.4.1 Sand: Side Shear Resistance

Side Shear resistance - The unit side resistance, as the drilled shaft is pushed downward is equal to the nor-
mal effective stress times the tangent on the interface friction angle. The normal stress at the interface of the
drilled shaft and soil will be relatively low when the excavation is completed. The fluid stress from the fresh
concrete will impose a normal stress that is dependent on the characteristics of the concrete. Experiments
have shown that concrete with a moderate slump (up to 6 inches, 15 cm.) acts hydrostatically over a depth
of 10 to 15 ft. (3 to 4.5 m.) and there is a leveling off in the lateral stress at greater depths, probably due to
arching (Bernal and Reese, 1983). Concrete with a high slump (about 9 inches, 23 cm.) acts hydrostatically to
a depth of 32 ft. (10 m.). Thus, construction procedures and the concrete characteristics will probably have a
strong influence on the magnitude of the lateral stress at the soil-concrete interface. Furthermore, the fric-
tion angle of the soil-concrete interface will also be affected by construction details. Consequently, a b
method for calculating the unit side shear transfer is use with the following rationale:

Equation: 1.4.a

Equation: 1.4.b

where
fsz = ultimate unit side shear resistance in sand at depth z,
K = a parameter that combines the lateral pressure coefficient
σz = vertical effective stress at depth z
φc = interface friction angle for soil-concrete
L = depth of embedment for drilled shaft in sand
dA = differential area of perimeter along sides of drilled shaft
Equation: 1.4.a and Equation: 1.4.b can be used in computations, but simpler expressions can be developed
by combining the terms for K and tan φc as β; resulting in:

Equation: 1.4.c

Equation: 1.4.d

1.2 > β > 0.25

Equation: 1.4.e

where
z = depth below ground surface, ft.

The factor β in Equation: 1.4.d is independent of φ (or NSPT) because drilling plus stress relief produces high
shearing strains in the sand at the borehole interface, and the friction angle φ is forced toward some com-
mon critical state value. Thus, the parameter β varies principally with the coefficient of lateral pressure K and
experimental studies have shown that this coefficient both for soil and fresh concrete exhibits some
decrease with depth. In sand layers with blowcounts of less than 15, an adjustment is made by dividing the
blowcount by 15, and multiplying this value by β.

The limiting value of side resistance in Equation: 1.4.e is again not a theoretical limit, but rather is merely the
largest value that has been measured (Owens and Reese, 1982). Higher values can be used if justified via a
load test.
1.4.2 Sand: End Bearing

End Bearing - Because of stress relief when an excavation is drilled into sand, there is a tendency for the
sand to loosen slightly at the bottom of the excavation. Also there appears to be some densification of the
sand beneath the base of the drilled shaft as settlement occurs. The load-settlement curves that have been
obtained by experiment for the base of drilled shafts are consistent with the above concepts. the load con-
tinued to increase for some tests to a settlement of more than 15 percent of the base diameter. Such a large
settlement could not be tolerated for most structures; therefore, it was decided to limit the values of end
bearing for drilled shafts in granular soils to that which would occur at a downward movement of 5 percent
of the base diameter.

The values of qb are tabulated as a function of NSPT (uncorrected field values) in Table 3. However, these val-
ues may have to be reduced for large diameter shafts [D> 50 in. (1.3m)], as shown by Equation: 1.4.f.

Bb in inches
or

Bb in meters 
Equation: 1.4.f

Recommend Unit End Bearing Values for Cohesionless Soils

Nspt Values (Blowcount) Value of qb (tsf)

0 to 50 (0.60 Nspt )[60 Nspt ]
Above 50 is treated as 50 (0.60 Nspt )[60 Nspt ]
In the case where the shaft base is in sand, FB-Deep uses the basic assumption that the soil 1.5B above and
2B below the shaft base contributes to the end bearing capacity. This assumption differs from O'Neill (1988)
in which a single N value at the base characterizes the tip resistance. A weighted average in this 1.5B - 2B
range is obtained via Equation: 1.4.g.

Equation: 1.4.g

FB-Deep needs at least one value of SPT for each sand layer. It then calculates an area average of SPT values
between the depth range of 1.5 shaft diameters above the base and 2.0 base diameters below the base, if no
other layer except a sand layer is present in this depth range. If any other soil except sand is present in this
range, then it calculates area average of SPT values between top of other layer (in other layer is present
below the base), and bottom of other layer (if other layer is present above the base). If a sand layer is
present above the base while the shaft is not tipped in sand, FB-Deep asks for at least one value of SPT for
each sand layer. However, SPT values are not required to calculate skin friction, but in case of editing the
shaft data, this information may be required.
1.4.3 Sand: Immediate Settlement

Immediate Settlements - The immediate settlements are computed using non-linear t-z and Q-z springs,
with the shape presented in Figure: 1.4.a. The equations are provided but is should be referred that there is a
considerable scatter around these trend lines.

Side friction mobilization

fs/fsmax = -2.16*R4+6.34*R3-7.36*R2+4.15*R for R ≤ 0.908333

fs/fsmax = 0.978112     for R > 0.908333

where R = 100 * Settlement / D

End bearing mobilization
qb/qbmax = -0.0001079* R4+0.0035584* R3-0.045115* R2+0.34861*R
 Figure: 1.4.a Trend lines for side friction and end bearing in sand

1.5 Design for Rock

1. Side Shear Resistance

2. End Bearing
3. Short-Term Settlement
1.5.1 Rock: Side Shear Resistance

Several equations have been suggested for estimating the ultimate side friction (fsu) for drilled shafts in
rock. (McVay et al. 1992) and are typically based upon unconfined compression strengths, qu, (a values) or a

combination of unconfined and split tensile strengths ( ). These correlations listed below can
be entered into FB-Deep as
(Note: 1 tsf = 95.8 kPa):

Equation: 1.5.a

1. Williams, et.al. (1980): ;

2. Rowe and Armitage for clean sockets, and

(1987):
for rough sockets;
3. Horvath and Kenney
(1979): ; 
4. Carter and Kulhawy
(1988): ; 
5. Reynolds and Kaderabek
(1980): ;

6. Gupton and Logan (1984):

;

7. Reese and O'Neill (1988):

;

or
8. Crapps (1986):

9. CIRIA (Hobbs and

N value 10 15 20 25 30 >30
Healy,1979)
 fsu(tsf) 0.36 0.77 1.10 1.80 2.60 2.60
N range 10-20 20-50 50-50/3" >50/3"
10. McMahan (1988)
fsu(tsf) 1.5 2.5 3.8 5

An examination of these methods reveals that in the case of #5, #6 and #7, skin friction is a simple constant
times qu, whereas #1, #2, #3, and #4 use a power curve relationship.

The value of fsu is modified by the Rock Recovery percentage. The Rock Recovery percentage is inputted in
the Boring Log as a value between 0.0 and 1.0. Note that for input files created in FB-Deep version 1.18 and
previous, the value of fsu is modified by RQD, not Rock Recovery. To force an old input file (one that was cre-
ated on FB-Deep version 1.18 or before) to use Rock Recovery instead of RQD, simply open the old input file
in FB-Deep version 1.19, and resave it.

When entering values for socket roughness, 0 = smooth socket, and 1 = rough socket. If any rock layers in
the boring log have a smooth designation, the AquB method will automatically become selected and the Wil-
liam’s and McVay’s methods will become disabled. The default values of 1.0 and 0.07 will then be assigned
to A and B, respectively. (Note that for input files created in FB-Deep version 1.18 and previous, you can still
use any of the three Rock Side Friction methods, even if a smooth socket is present. However, once you save
the old input file on version 1.19, you will be forced to used the AquB method if any smooth sockets are
present.
Figure: 1.5.a Boring Log Dialog
1.5.2 Rock: End Bearing

The ultimate end bearing resistance in rock can be calculated as:

Qb = qbu Ab
Equation: 1.5.b

where:
Qb = ultimate end bearing
qbu = unit end bearing capacity, and
Ab = shaft base area
qbu is user defined.
1.5.3 Rock: Short-Term Settlement

The short-term settlements in rock are estimated using the direct method of O'Neill, et al. (1996) (FHWA
report: Load Transfer for Drilled Shafts in Intermediate Geomaterials) for rough sockets [IGM_Type = 1.0] or
smooth [IGM_Type <> 1.0].

Step-by-step procedure for settlement capacity computation of Drilled Shaft IGM:

1. Find the total socketed length along the pile (L).

where, k is rock layer number, Lk is k rock layer thickness

2. Find the average and along the side of the rock socket.

where

where = side friction from Equation: 1.5.a.

3. Find n

For "rough" sockets;

where, σn = normal stress of concrete = γc Zc M

is the unit weight of the concrete and

 is the distance from the top of the completed column of concrete to the point in the borehole at
which is desired (usually the middle of the socket).

Table 4 Values of M

if a water table is present, then σn = M • [γc Zw + (γc - γw) • ( Zc - Zw)] , where Zw = depth to water
table.

For "smooth" sockets,

n is estimated (See Figure: 1.5.b).
 Figure: 1.5.b: N Factors for Smooth Sockets

Average n is calculated as

Where, k is rock layer number, Lk is k layer thickness

4. Calculate Ω

where, L is the total socket length, Ec is user defined concrete elastic modulus, and
5. Calculate Γ

1. Calculate and

where, wt = Settlement at top of rock socket

2. Calculate the side shear load transfer - deformation as

Kf = 1.0 when, Kf < navg

3. For end bearing short-term settlements in rock sockets, the O'Neill et al. (1996) procedure follows as:

Find
 where   , and

4. The total settlement ( ) for a rock socket would be the sum of  .

Example:
1. Find the total socketed length along the pile (L).
L = 6.1 m

2. Find the average Em and fsu along the side of the rock socket.
 where
Em_avg = 195500 kPa

where, (selecting A = 0.4 and B = 1)

fsu_avg = 680 kPa

3. Find average n

IGM Layer 1, for “rough” sockets;

where, σn = γc Zc M

γc = 20.4 kN/m3, M = 0.92 (for Zc = 4.575 m and Slump = 175 mm)

σn = 85.86 kN/m2

n(σn, qu) = 0.036

IGM Layer 2, for "smooth" sockets, n is estimated using Figure: 1.5.b).

σn = γc Zc M

γc = 20.4 kN/m3, M = 0.769 (for Zc = 7.625 m and Slump = 175 mm)

σn = 119.6 kN/m2
n(Em /σn, qu /σp) = 0.456

Average n is calculated as
navg = 0.246

4. Calculate Ω

Ω = 2.93

5. Calculate Γ

Γ = 0.602

6. Calculate Θf

For 2mm settlement at top of rock socket (wt = 0.002m)

Θf = 0.146

7. Calculate the side shear load capacity – settlement as

For Θf < navg

Qs = 1160 kN

8. For end bearing short-term settlements (Qb) in rock sockets, the O'Neill et al. (1996) procedure follows
as:

where   , and

Λ = 71054 kN/m2.

Qb = 323 kN

9. The total settlement (Qt ) for a rock socket would be the sum of (Qs+ Qb).

Qt =1160 + 323 = 1823 kN (for 2mm settlement)

1.6 Shaft: Layered Soils

In the case of alternating layers of clay, sand, or rock, the side resistance is calculated by summing the incre-
mental resistances for each layer. Obviously, the end bearing depends upon the layer in which the base is
tipped.

1.7 Examples

1. Example 1
2. Example 2
3. Example 3
4. Example 4
5. Example 5
6. Example 6
1.7.1 Example 1: Multi Layer Clay with Casing

1- Undrained Shear Strength calculation from CPT results

σo: average stress; qc: tip cone resistance

Clay Layer # 1 :

Clay Layer # 2 :
2- Skin Friction:
Skin friction coefficient

Layer #1:

Layer#2:
3- End Bearing:

Average undrained shear strength 1.5B above the tip

Average undrained shear strength 3B below the tip

Average Unit skin friction

4- Total Capacity:
5- Settlement:
a) Settlement = 0.3"

Side friction mobilization: 0.74 < R% < 2.0

End bearing mobilization: R<6.5

1.7.2 Example 2: Multi Layer Clay with Casing, but B>75" (1.9m):

1- Undrained Shear Strength calculation from CPT results

σo: average stress qc: tip cone resistance

Clay Layer # 1:

Clay Layer # 2:

2- Skin Friction:
Skin friction coefficient

Layer #1:

Layer#2:

3- End Bearing:

Average undrained shear strength 1.5B above the tip

Average undrained shear strength 3B below the tip

Average Unit skin friction

4- Corrected end bearing If B > 75 ", then

Cu at the mid-level of bearing layer change and pile tip.

5- Total Capacity:

6- Settlement

a) Settlement = 3.0"
Side friction mobilization: R% > 2.0
End bearing mobilization: R<6.5
1.7.3 Example 3: Multilayer - Sand - Sand

1- Skin Friction:
In sand layers with blowcounts of less than 15, an adjustment is made by dividing the blowcount by 15, and
multiplying this value by β.
2- End Bearing:
Above 1.5B and Below 2B:

3- Total Capacity:
4- Settlement:
a) Settlement = 1.44 "

Side friction mobilization: R% > 0.908333

End bearing mobilization:

1.7.4 Example 4: Multilayer - Sand - Clay - Sand:

1- Skin Friction
Layer 1: Sand (6-20ft)
In sand layers with blowcounts of less than 15, an adjustment is made by dividing the blowcount by 15, and
multiplying this value by β.
Layer 2: Clay (20-40ft)

Layer 3: Sand (40-60ft)

2- End Bearing:
Above 1.5B and Below 2B:
3- Total Capacity:
1.7.5 Example 5: IGM: (Sand & Limestone)

Because of unit comparison problems, calculate Sand using English and Rock using SI units.

1. Skin Friction (Sand):

In sand layers with blowcounts of less than 15, an adjustment is made by dividing the blowcount by
15, and multiplying this value by β.

Qs = 60.82 tons (541.08 kN)

 2. UF method (Rock): (Note: Must enter values for qu and qt )
Skin Friction (Rock)

Qs = π (1 m) (3.05 m) (151.41 kN/m2)

Qs = 1450.79 kN

Total Skin Friction

Σ Qs = 541.08 + 1450.79 = 1992 kN

End Bearing (Rock)

Assuming qb = ½ qu

Qb = 376 kN

3. Total Capacity :
Qt = Σ Qs + Qb = 1992 + 376 = 2368 kN

Settlement Calculation

Sand Layer
Skin Friction -
Qs/Qsmax = -2.16*R4+6.34*R3-7.36*R2+4.15*R For R ≤ 0.908333
Qs/Qsmax = 0.978112 for R > 0.908333

where R = 100 * Settlement / D, and Qsmax = 541.08 kN (Check above)

Rock Layer:
Skin Friction -

Find the average Em ,fsu , and n along the side of the rock socket.

where

where, (selecting A = 0.4 and B = 1)

For “rough” sockets;

where, σn = γc Zc M

Only one IGM layer is present.

Em_avg = Em=115 qu = 110400 kPa

fsu_avg = fsu =151.41 kPa

navg = n

γc = 20.4 kN/m3, M = 0.627 (for Zc = 7.625 m and Slump = 152.4 mm)

σn = γc Zc M =97.53 kN/m2
navg = n(σn, qu) = 0.102

Calculate Ω, and Γ

Calculate Θfand Kf

where, w t = Settlement at top of rock socket

Side shear load capacity – settlement

Kf = 1.0 when, Kf < navg

End bearing –settlement (Rock)

where   , and

For 2mm and 5mm settlement at top of rock socket (wt = 0.002m and wt = 0.005m)

Settlement 2mm 5mm

Em_avg 110400 kPa 110400 kPa
fsu_avg 151.41 kPa 151.41 kPa
navg 0.102 0.102
Omega, Ω 1.462 1.462
Lamda, Γ 0.507 0.507
Λ 14769 kN/m2 14769 kN/m2
Θf 0.437 1.093
Kf 0.346 0.573
R 0.2 0.5
Side Friction (Qs, Sand) 315.65 kN 484.50 kN
Side Friction (Qs, Rock) 502.00 kN 831.3 kN
End bearing (Qb, Rock) 180.3 kN 333.2 kN
Total Capacity (Qt ) 998 kN 1649 kN
1.7.6 Example 6: IGM: (Sand, Clay & Limestone)

1. Skin Friction (Sand):

In sand layers with blowcounts of less than 15, an adjustment is made by dividing the blowcount by
15, and multiplying this value by β.
 Qs = 60.82 tons (541.08 kN)

2. Skin Friction (Clay):

Qs = π (1 m) (3.05 m) (0.55 · 181.94)

Qs = 958.85 kN (107.78 tons)

3. Skin Friction (Rock):

Qs = π (1 m) (3.05 m) (151.41 kN/m2)

Qs = 1450.79 kN (163.075 tons)

Total Skin Friction

Σ Qs = 541.08 + 958.85 kN + 1450.79kN = 2950.72 kN (331.67 tons)

4. End Bearing (Rock):

Assuming qb = ½ qu

Qb = 376 kN (42.27 tons)

 5. Total Capacity :

Qt = Σ Qs + Qb = 2950.72 + 376 = 3326.72 kN (373.94 tons)

Settlement Calculation

Sand Layer
Skin Friction -
Qs/Qsmax = -2.16*R4+6.34*R3-7.36*R2+4.15*R For R ≤ 0.908333

Qs/Qsmax = 0.978112 for R > 0.908333

where R = 100 * Settlement / D, and Qsmax = 541.08 kN (Check above)

Clay Layer
Skin Friction -

Qs/Qsmax = 0.593157*R/0.12  for R ≤ 0.12

Qs/Qsmax = R/(0.095155+0.892937*R)   for R ≤ 0.74
Qs/Qsmax = 0.978929-0.115817*(R-0.74)   for R ≤ 2.0
Qs/Qsmax = 0.833     for R > 2.0

where R = 100 * Settlement / D, and Qsmax = 958.85 kN (Check above)

Rock Layer:
Skin Friction -

Find the average Em ,fsu , and n along the side of the rock socket.

where

where, (selecting A = 0.4 and B = 1)

For “rough” sockets;

where, σn = γc Zc M

Only one IGM layer is present.

Em_avg = Em=115 qu = 110400 kPa

fsu_avg = fsu =151.41 kPa

navg = n

γc = 20.4 kN/m3, M = 0.548 (for Zc = 10.675 m and Slump = 152.4 mm)

σn = γc Zc M =119.34 kN/m2

navg = n(σn, qu) = 0.1246

Calculate Ω, and Γ
Calculate Θfand Kf

where, w t = Settlement at top of rock socket

Side shear load capacity – settlement

Kf = 1.0 when, Kf < navg

End bearing –settlement (Rock)

where   , and
For 2mm and 5mm settlement at top of rock socket (wt = 0.002m and wt = 0.005m)

Settlement 2mm 5mm

Em_avg 110400 kPa 110400 kPa
fsu_avg 151.41 kPa 151.41 kPa
navg 0.1246 0.1246
Omega, Ω 1.462 1.462
Lamda, Γ 0.507 0.507
Λ 14769 kN/m2 14769 kN/m2
Θf 0.437 1.093
Kf 0.355 0.608
R 0.2 0.5
Side Friction (Qs, Sand) 315.65 kN 482.91 kN
Side Friction (Qs, Clay) 700 kN 884.84 kN
Side Friction (Qs, Rock) 514.81 kN 847.55 kN
End bearing (Qb, Rock) 180.3 kN 333.2 kN
Total Capacity (Qt ) 1710.76 kN 2548.50 kN
2 Driven Piles

1. SPT
2. CPT

2.1 SPT

1. Concrete Piles
2. Steel Pipe Piles
3. Steel H Piles
4. Concrete Cylinder Piles
5. Methodology
2.1.1 Piles: Precast Concrete Piles (PCP)

In FB-Deep, there are two types of precast concrete pile (PCP) section types: square, and round. The unit skin
friction and unit end bearing formulas are given in the two tables immediately below.

SIDE FRICTION
Unit side friction at a given depth is also based on the type of soil and the corresponding SPT blowcount.
The following table shows the empirically derived equations for ultimate unit side friction versus blowcount
for the four soil types.

Soil SPT Blow Count

Soil Description Unit Skin Friction (tsf)
Type Range

fs = 2 · N · (110 – N) /
1 Plastic Clay 3 ≤ N ≤ 60
4006.6

fs = 2 · N· (110 – N) /
2 Clay-silt-sand mixtures 3 ≤ N ≤ 60
4583.3

3 Clean Sands fs = 0.019 · N 3 ≤ N ≤ 60

Soft limestone, very shelly

4 fs = 0.01 · N 3 ≤ N ≤ 100
sand

5 Void fs = 0.0 n/a

To convert TSF to kPa multiply the fs by 95.76.

END BEARING
Unit end bearing at a given depth is based on the type of soil and the corresponding SPT blowcount. The fol-
lowing table shows the empirically derived equations for mobilized unit end bearing versus blowcount for
the four soil types.
 Soil SPT Blow Count
Soil Description Unit End Bearing (tsf)
Type Range

1 Plastic Clay qt = 0.7 · N / 3 3 ≤ N ≤ 60

2 Clay-silt-sand mixtures qt = 1.6 · N / 3 3 ≤ N ≤ 60

3 Clean Sands qt = 3.2 · N / 3 3 ≤ N ≤ 60

Soft limestone, very shelly qt = 0.7873 · N + 0.0026· N2 + 1· 10-

4 5 · N3 3 ≤ N ≤ 100
sand

5 Void qt = 0.0 n/a

To convert TSF to kPa multiply the qt by 95.76.

The methodology used to calculate the end bearing capacity for a given depth includes the critical depth cor-
rection, and the end bearing contribution zone of 8B above and 3.5B below the pile tip is considered. Excep-
tion is when the PCP tip is in Limestone, the end bearing contribution zone of 4B below the pile tip only is
considered and critical depth correction in not performed.

Database research at the University of Florida has indicated that, using the RB-121 methodology, it requires
excessive pile movement to mobilize the calculated ultimate pile capacities. To better match the measured
load test capacity values (using Davisson failure criteria) with calculated values, the "Mobilized End Bearing"
has been set equal to 1/3 of the RB-121 ultimate end bearing value. The Davisson capacity equals the ulti-
mate side friction plus the mobilized end bearing. The allowable pile capacity is taken as 1/2 the Davisson
capacity. The ultimate capacity is then equal to the ultimate side friction plus 3 times the mobilized end bear-
ing.
2.1.2 Piles: Steel Pipe Piles

SIDE FRICTION:
The following table shows the ultimate side friction versus SPT blowcounts for the five soil types, for steel
pipe piles.

Soil SPT Blow Count

Soil Description Ultimate Unit Side Friction (tsf)
Type Range

1 Plastic Clay fs = 0.4236 · ln(N) - 0.5404 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

Clay-silt-sand mixtures, fs = 0.029 + 0.045 · N - 8.98 · 10-4· N2 +

3 ≤ N < 40
2 6.371 · 10-6· N3
Very silty sand, silts
and marls fs = 0.799944 + 0.00362 · (N -40) 40 ≤ N ≤ 100

fs = -0.026 + 0.023 · N - 1.435 · 10-4· N2 -

3 ≤ N < 40
3 Clean Sands 6.527 · 10-7· N3

fs = 0.622627 + 0.003689 · (N -40) 40 ≤ N ≤ 100

Soft limestone, very

4 fs = 0.01 · N 3 ≤ N ≤ 100
shelly sand

5 Void fs = 0.0 n/a

END BEARING:
For end bearing capacity of steel pipe piles there are two groups, based on pile diameter: steel pipe piles
with a diameter of 36 inches or less, and those with a diameter greater than 36 inches.

For Diameter ≤ 36" (914.4mm)

The following table provides the plots of mobilized unit end bearing capacity versus SPT blow count for the
five soil types, for steel pipe piles with a diameter ≤ 36" (914.4mm).
 Soil SPT Blow Count
Soil Description Unit End Friction (tsf)
Type Range

1 Plastic Clay 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

Clay-silt-sand mixtures,
2 Very silty sand, silts and 3 ≤ N ≤ 100
marls

3 ≤ N ≤ 30

3 Clean Sands

30 < N ≤ 100

3 ≤ N ≤ 30

Soft limestone, very shelly

4
sand
30 < N ≤100

5 Void n/a

For Diameter > 36" (914.4mm)

The formulas for large diameter steel pipe piles can be seen in the following tables, which are based on the
work of M. C. McVay, D. Badri, and Z. Hu, from the report "Determination of Axial Pile Capacity of
Prestressed Concrete Cylinder Piles", 2004, Table 8-3, page 95.

Soil SPT Blow Count

Soil Description Unit End Friction (tsf)
Type Range
 1 Plastic Clay 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

2 Clay-silt-sand mixtures 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

3 Clean Sands 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

3 ≤ N ≤ 30

Soft limestone, very shelly

4
sand
30 < N ≤ 100

5 Void n/a

Note: for input files created on FB-Deep, version 1.18 and previous, the end bearing formulas will NOT be
used for steel pipe piles with a diameter greater than 36" (914.4). Instead, the formulas for diameter lesser
than 36" (914.4) will be used. This is for the sake of backwards compatibility. If you want an old file to use
these new large diameter formulas, simply open the file in FB-Deep v201 or later, and resave it.

is blowcount

is unit skin friction

is unit end bearing

The methodology used to calculate the end bearing capacity for a given depth includes the critical depth cor-
rection, the end bearing contribution zone of 8B above and 3.5B below the pile tip is considered.

*Pipe pile can be assigned open-ended or closed-ended by the user. For open-ended condition, the program
internally checks the pile to be plugged or unplugged. The capacity is then selected as per the lower pre-
diction between the sum of “outer” and “inner” skin friction and end bearing on the annulus (unplugged con-
dition), and sum of “outer” skin friction and end bearing of the closed-end cross section (plugged condition).
The corrected mobilized end bearing capacity is then computed as per plugged or unplugged condition.

PILE CAPACITY
Davisson's criteria is not used for this pile type because of the uncertainty of computing elastic settlement
for a plugged pile. Instead the mobilized ultimate pile capacity is defined as an applied load at a settlement
equal to three percent (3%) the diameter of the pile. The allowable pile capacity is equal to 1/2 the mobilized
ultimate pile capacity. The ultimate pile capacity is determined as the ultimate side friction plus three (3)
times the mobilized end bearing.
2.1.3 Piles: Steel H Piles

SIDE FRICTION
The empirical equations for the ultimate side friction versus SPT blowcount, which are derived from the data-
base, are as follows:

Soil SPT Blow Count

Soil Description Unit Skin Friction (tsf)
Type Range

1 Plastic Clay fs = 2 · N · (110 – N) / 5335.9 3 ≤ N ≤ 60

Clay-silt-sand mix- fs = -0.0227 + 0.033 · N – 4.576 · 10-4 · N2 +

2 3 ≤ N < 75
tures 2.465 · 10-6 · N3

3 Clean Sands fs = 0.0112 · N 3 ≤ N ≤ 60

Soft limestone, very

4 fs = 0.0076 · N 3 ≤ N < 100
shelly sand

5 Void fs = 0.0 n/a

The H-Pile circumference used for the skin friction calculation in all soil types (soil type 1, 2, 3, and 4,
namely, clay, silt, sand , and limestone) is considering 50% plugged condition. Circumference = (3 ·Width +
2 ·Depth)

Figure: 2.1.a 50% plugged condition

The 'Width', and 'Depth' field can be seen in the 'Pile Geometry' table on the program's main screen.

END BEARING
The empirical equations (for the five soil types) for the plots of the mobilized unit end bearing capacity
versus SPT blow count are presented as follows:

Soil Unit End Bearing SPT Blow Count

Soil Description
Type (tsf) Range

1 Plastic Clay qt = 0.7 · N / 3 3 ≤ N ≤ 60

2 Clay-silt-sand mixtures qt = 1.6 · N / 3 3 ≤ N < 60

3 Clean Sands qt = 3.2 · N / 3 3 ≤ N ≤ 60

Soft limestone, very shelly

4 qt = 3.6 · N / 3 3 ≤ N < 100
sand

5 Void qt = 0.0 n/a

The methodology used to calculate the end bearing capacity for a given depth includes no critical depth cor-
rection, and the end bearing contribution zone of 4B below the pile tip only.

For H-Pile end bearing calculations in all soil types (soil type 1, 2, 3, and 4, namely, clay, silt, sand , and lime-
stone), 50% plugged condition is considered. Half of the product of the user-inputted 'Width' and 'Depth' is
used to calculate the pile tip area (Pile Tip Area = 0.5 x Width x Depth).

The 'Width', and 'Depth' field can be seen in the 'Pile Geometry' table on the program's main screen.

PILE CAPACITY
Davisson's criteria is used for this pile type. The Davisson capacity equals the ultimate side friction plus the
mobilized end bearing. The mobilized end bearing capacity is defined as 1/3 of the calculated ultimate end
bearing using the RB-121 methodology. The allowable pile capacity is taken as 1/2 the Davisson capacity.
The ultimate capacity is then equal to the ultimate side friction plus 3 times the mobilized end bearing, with
the following exception: for H-Piles tipped in sand or limestone, the ultimate pile capacity is the ultimate side
friction plus 2 times the mobilized end bearing.
2.1.4 Concrete Cylinder Piles

SIDE FRICTION:
The following table shows the ultimate side friction versus SPT blowcounts for the five soil types, for con-
crete cylinder piles.

Soil SPT Blow Count

Soil Description Ultimate Unit Side Friction (tsf)
Type Range

1 Plastic Clay fs = 0.4236 · ln(N) - 0.5404 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

Clay-silt-sand mixtures, fs = 0.029 + 0.045 · N - 8.98 · 10-4· N2 +

3 ≤ N < 40
2 6.371 · 10-6· N3
Very silty sand, silts
and marls fs = 0.799944 + 0.00362 · (N -40) 40 ≤ N ≤ 100

fs = -0.026 + 0.023 · N - 1.435 · 10-4· N2 -

3 ≤ N < 40
3 Clean Sands 6.527 · 10-7· N3

fs = 0.622627 + 0.003689 · (N -40) 40 ≤ N ≤ 100

Soft limestone, very

4 fs = 0.01 · N 3 ≤ N ≤ 100
shelly sand

5 Void fs = 0.0 n/a

END BEARING:
For end bearing capacity of steel pipe piles there are two groups, based on pile diameter: steel pipe piles
with a diameter of 36 inches or less, and those with a diameter greater than 36 inches.

For Diameter ≤ 36" (914.4mm)

The following table provides the plots of mobilized unit end bearing capacity versus SPT blow count for the
five soil types, for concrete cylinder piles with a diameter ≤ 36" (914.4mm).
 Soil Unit End Bearing SPT Blow Count
Soil Description
Type (tsf) Range

1 Plastic Clay qt = 0.7· N / 3 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

2 Clay-silt-sand mixtures qt = 1.6 · N / 3 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

3 Clean Sands qt = 3.2 · N / 3 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

Soft limestone, very shelly

4 qt = 3.6 · N / 3 3 ≤ N ≤ 100
sand

5 Void qt = 0.0 n/a

For Diameter > 36" (914.4mm)

Large diameter cylinder piles have a diameter greater than 36 inches (914.4mm). The formulas for these
piles can be seen in the following table, which are based on the work of M.C. McVay, D. Badri, and Z.Hu, from
the report "Determination of Axial Pile Capacity of Prestressed Concrete Cylinder Piles", 2004, Table 8-3,
page 95.

Soil Unit End Bearing SPT Blow Count

Soil Description
Type (tsf) Range

1 Plastic Clay qt = 0.2226· N 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

2 Clay-silt-sand mixtures qt = 0.4101 · N 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

3 Clean Sands qt = 0.5676 · N 3 ≤ N ≤ 100

Soft limestone, very shelly

4 qt = 3.6 · N / 3 3 ≤ N ≤ 100
sand

5 Void qt = 0.0 n/a

*N is blowcount
fs is unit skin friction
qt is unit end bearing 
Note: for input files created on FB-Deep, version 1.18 and previous, the above formulas will NOT be used for
cylinder piles with a diameter greater than 36" (914.4). Instead, the formulas for diameter lesser than 36"
(914.4) will be used. This is for the sake of backwards compatibility. If you want an old file to use the new
large diameter formulas, simply open the input file in FB-Deep v2.01 or later, and resave it.

The methodology used to calculate the end bearing capacity for a given depth includes the critical depth cor-
rection, the end bearing contribution zone of 8B above and 3.5B below the pile tip is considered.

*Concrete Cylinder pile can be assigned open-ended or closed-ended by the user. For open-ended con-
dition, the program internally checks the pile to be plugged or unplugged. The capacity is then selected as
per the lower prediction between the sum of “outer” and “inner” skin friction and end bearing on the annu-
lus (unplugged condition), and sum of “outer” skin friction and end bearing of the closed-end cross section
(plugged condition).

The corrected mobilized end bearing capacity is then computed as per plugged or unplugged condition.
2.1.5 Methodology

The methodology is based on empirical correlations between cone penetrometer tests and standard pen-
etration tests for typical Florida soil types. Unit end bearing resistance and unit skin friction resistance
versus SPT N values are given in RB-121 for the different soil types. The program recognizes five soil types:

1.Plastic Clay
2.Clay and Silty Sand
3.Clean Sand
4.Limestone, Very Shelly Sand
5.Void Layer

Per soil classification for mixture of soil and limestone aggregates, types of soil (either Type 2 or 3) is recom-
mended.
In order to define the soil profile, the user inputs the depth, N value, and soil type of each SPT sample. A
layer change is established at the elevation where a new soil type is input. The unit end bearing and unit side
friction values at the interface correspond to the soil type below the layer change. Typical blowcount spa-
cings are every 2.5 feet (.762 meters). Results based on spacings of greater than 5.00 feet (1.524 meters) can
become inaccurate.

END BEARING
One of the basic assumptions of this program is that the soil 3.5B below and 8.0B above the pile tip con-
tributes to the end bearing capacity. The value B refers to the diameter or width of the pile. An exception
occurs when the bearing layer is weaker than the overlying layer. If this is the case, the upper limit ter-
minates at the layer change rather than 8.0B, to prevent a "punching" type end bearing failure. Individual
unit end bearing capacities are computed at each depth within the above ranges. When the pile tip, upper
and lower limits of the range do not correspond to an actual sample depth, the capacity is determined by
interpolating between the samples just above and below the desired depth. The average unit end bearing in
each layer or range is determined by taking a weighted average of the end bearing values within the range.

The average unit end bearing above the pile tip is added to the average unit end bearing below the pile tip.
The sum is divided by 2.0 to yield the average unit end bearing value. The uncorrected end bearing capacity
is the average unit end bearing times the pile tip cross sectional area. Correction factors for the final end
bearing capacity are discussed in the subsequent section CRITICAL DEPTH CORRECTIONS. (Also see section
on AVERAGING UNIT SKIN FRICTION AND END BEARING OVER A LAYER below).

Exception is when the prestressed concrete piles (PCP) is in Limestone (soil type 4) or H-Pile in all soil types,
the end bearing contribution zone of 4B below the pile tip only is considered and critical depth correction is
not performed.

SIDE FRICTION
The ultimate side friction resistance in the layers above the bearing layer and in the bearing layer are determ-
ined separately. As with the unit end bearing, a weighted average technique is used to establish the ultimate
unit skin friction in each layer or range. The unit side friction is multiplied by the corresponding surface area
in each layer to calculate a cumulative ultimate skin friction. A correction factor for the ultimate side friction
capacity of the bearing layer is required, and is discussed below. (Also see section on AVERAGE
BLOWCOUNT below).

AVERAGING UNIT SKIN FRICTION AND END BEARING OVER A LAYER

To determine the unit skin friction and unit end bearing contribution for a soil layer, an averaging technique
is used. The average unit skin friction for a soil layer is computed as follows: the user-inputted blowcount for
the top of a soil layer is applied to the unit skin friction formula for the layer. The next entry in the Boring
Log is then inspected, and based on its blowcount and soil type, another unit skin friction calculation is
made. These two unit skin frictions are then averaged. See Figure: 2.1.b and Figure: 2.1.c titled "Unit Skin Fric-
tion Averaging, A" and "Unit Skin Friction Averaging, B").
 Figure: 2.1.b Unit Skin Friction Averaging, A

In Figure: 2.1.b, "Unit Skin Friction Averaging: A", a clay soil layer begins at a depth of 8.00, with a blowcount
of 0 blows/ft. This layer extends to a depth of 52.5 feet, where a sand layer begins, with a blowcount of 13
blows/ft. The average unit skin friction for this clay layer is computed as thusly:
Use soil type 1 (clay) formula for the depth at the top of the clay layer (8.00 ft):
(2.0 * N)(110 – N) / 4006.6 =
(2.0 * 0.0)(110 – 0.0) / 4006.6 =
(0.0)(110) / 4006.6 =
0.0 tsf

Use soil type 3 (sand) formula for the depth at the top of the next layer (52.5 feet):
0.019 * N =
0.019 * (13) =
0.247 tsf

Average the two unit skin frictions:

(0.0 + 0.247) / 2 =
0.1235 tsf is the unit skin friction for the clay layer

Identical logic is used to compute an average unit end bearing in a layer, the only difference being the unit
end bearing formulas are used in place of the skin friction formulas. Note, in the above example, if the user’s
intention was for the clay layer to have a blowcount of 0 blows/ft throughout the layer, then an additional
entry could be made to the boring log for a clay layer with a depth of 52.5 feet, and a blowcount of 0.0;
Then, the average unit skin friction would be be (0.0 + 0.0) / 2 = 0.0 tsf. This additional layer entry at 52.5
feet can be seen in Figure: 2.1.c "Unit Skin Friction Averaging, B".
 Figure: 2.1.c Unit Skin Friction Averaging, B

FICTITIOUS LAYERS
A fictitious layer is an imaginary soil layer with a blowcount of less than 3, which will be rounded to a 0. Its
role is to break up a thick soil layer whose blowcount varies greatly over the layer depth, to help ensure
more accurate results. And because of the zeroed blowcount, fictitious layers do NOT make a skin friction or
end bearing contribution of their own. Fictitious layers also help to clarify the contributions of each section
of the thick soil layer, at various depths. (See Figure: 2.1.d and Figure: 2.1.e).
In this example, the sand layer is 30 feet thick, with the blowcounts varying within the layer as follows:
 Figure: 2.1.d "Fictitious Layer, A"

No fictitious layers exist in Figure: 2.1.d. Instead, the entire boring log is one single layer, with four different
blowcounts, depending on the depth. The first blowcount change occurs at a depth of 7.5 feet, where the
blowcount changes from 7 to 38. To insert fictitious layers, this 7.5 foot deep section is divided into 3 smal-
ler sections, each 2.5 feet in depth. Each 2.5 foot section has a blowcount of 7. Between each 2.5 foot section,
a soil layer with a different type is inserted, with a width of 0.00 feet, and a blowcount of 0.00. A fictitious
layer is inserted at depths of 2.5 feet and 5.0 feet. Because the soil type of the given layer is sand, a clay layer
is inserted as the fictitious layer.
 Figure: 2.1.e "Fictitious Layer, B"

This process is repeated for the other sections of the sand layer, between 7.5 and 19 feet, and between 19
and 30 feet.

CRITICAL DEPTH CORRECTIONS

The concept of critical depth is used in both the end bearing and side friction calculations. The ultimate end
bearing capacity of a pile cannot be fully mobilized with the bearing layer until the pile tip reaches a critical
depth/width ratio (D/B), where D is the depth of embedment in the bearing layer and B is the pile width. The
bearing layer is the soil layer in which the pile tip is embedded. The following D/B ratios are used in FB-
Deep; these have been modified from those shown in the original RB-121 study.
When the actual depth of embedment is less than the critical depth and when the bearing layer is stronger
than the overlying layer, a correction (reduction) is applied to the unit end bearing capacity. The corrected
unit end bearing value is determined by interpolating between the bearing capacity at the top of the bearing
layer and the bearing capacity at the pile tip according to the following equation:

where:
q = Corrected unit end bearing @ pile tip
qLC = Unit end bearing at layer change
qT = Uncorrected unit end bearing @ pile tip
DA = Actual embedment in bearing layer
DC = Critical depth of embedment+

If the pile tip embedment in the bearing layer is less than the critical depth and the overlying layer is weaker
than the bearing layer, the side friction in the bearing layer is corrected (reduced) in accordance with the fol-
lowing equation:

where:
CSFBL = Corrected side friction in the bearing layer
SFBL = Uncorrected side friction in the bearing layer
qT, qLC, DA, DC as previously defined

If the pile tip embedment in the bearing layer is greater than the critical depth and when the overlying layer
is weaker than the bearing layer, the skin friction between the top of the bearing layer and the critical depth
is corrected (reduced) according to the following equation:

where:
CSFACD = Corrected side friction in the bearing layer from the top of the bearing layer to the critical depth
USFACD = Uncorrected side friction from the top of the bearing layer to the critical depth
qCD = Unit end bearing at critical depth
qLC = as previously defined

No corrections are applied when the overlying layer is stronger than the bearing layer.

2.2 CPT

1. Schmertmann
2. UF
3. LCPC
4. CPT Modeling
2.2.1 Schmertmann

This method was first proposed by Schmertmann in 1978. It uses both tip resistance and sleeve friction to
predict pile capacity. The pile’s unit tip capacity is calculated by the minimum path rule shown in Figure:
2.2.a. Schmertmann set an upper limit of 150 tsf for the unit tip capacity.

Figure: 2.2.a Calculation of average tip resistance using the Minimum Path Rule in the Schmertmann
method

The pile’s unit skin friction:

fs= αc • fsa ≤ 1.2 tsf

In clay:
where: αc is a function of f sa and pile material, as shown in Figure: 2.2.b, and Figure: 2.2.c.
fsa ≤ 1.2 tsf

In sand:
where:  αs is a function of pile depth to width ratio and pile material as shown in Figure: 2.2.d, and Figure:
2.2.e.

Figure: 2.2.b Design curve for concrete pile side friction in clay (Schmertmann method)
 Figure: 2.2.c Design curve for steel pile side friction in clay (Schmertmann method)

Figure: 2.2.d Design curve for concrete pile side friction in sand (Schmertmann method)
Figure: 2.2.e Design curve for steel pile side friction in sand (Schmertmann method)
2.2.2 UF

The UF method uses the following equation to estimate the ultimate pile unit tip resistance, qt , from the CPT
tip resistance, qc:
qt = kb • qca (tip) = 150 tsf

where,
kb is a factor that depends on the soil type as shown in Table: 2.2.a. The soil type was determined by sim-
plified soil classification chart for standard electronic friction cone (Robertson et al, 1986) using CPT tip res-
istance and sleeve friction. Soil cementation was determined by SPT samples, DTP tip2/tip1 ratio or SPT qc/N
ratio (>10).
qca (tip): the average CPT tip resistance, which is calculated as follows:
qca (tip) = (qca above + qca below ) / 2
qca above: average qc measured from the tip to 8•D above the tip;
qca below : average qc measured from the tip to 3•D below the tip for sand or 1•D below the tip for clay;
Impose the condition: qca above= qca below, which means if qca above= qca below, let qca(tip) be equal to qca
below .

The UF method uses the following equation to estimate the ultimate skin friction resistance of the pile, fs,
from the CPT tip resistance, qc:
fs= qca(side) • 1.25 / Fs = 1.2 tsf

where,
Fs: friction factor that depends on the soil type as shown in Table: 2.2.b. Figure: 2.2.f was used to determine
the relative density of sand and the following criterion was used to determine the sand state: loose sand
(R.D. < 40 %), medium dense sand (40 % < R.D. < 70 %), and dense sand (R.D. >70 %).
 qca(side) : the average qc within the calculating soil layers along the pile.

Table: 2.2.a Ultimate unit tip resistance factor k b

Table: 2.2.b Ultimate unit skin friction empirical factor, Fs

Figure: 2.2.f Relative density relationship for N.C. moderately compressible, uncemented, unaged quartz
sands (after Baldi et al, 1986)
2.2.3 LCPC

The LCPC method (1982) only uses cone tip resistance for predicting axial pile capacity. It was proposed by
Bustamante and Gianeselli for the French Highway Department after the study of 197 piles in Europe. It is
also called the French method.

The pile’s unit tip capacity:

qt = kb • qeq (tip)

where, 
qeq (tip) is the average of tip resistance within 1.5•D above and 1.5•D below the pile tip after eliminating
abnormal data (out of the range of ±30% of the average value);

kb used by the program is a function of soil and pile type and can be found from Table: 2.2.c. The pile’s unit
skin friction is obtained by first noting pile type (Table: 2.2.d), then determining the Curve No. from Table:
2.2.e, Table: 2.2.f and Table: 2.2.g, and finally looking at Figure: 2.2.g, Figure: 2.2.h, and Figure: 2.2.i.

Table: 2.2.c Bearing factors kb for the LCPC Method

Soil Bored Driven

Type Piles Piles

Clay-Silt 0.375 0.600

Sand-
0.150 0.375
Gravel

Chalk 0.200 0.400

Figure: 2.2.g Ultimate skin friction curves for clay and silt from the LCPC method
Figure: 2.2.h Ultimate skin friction curves for sand and gravel from the LCPC method

Figure: 2.2.i Ultimate skin friction curves for chalk from the LCPC method
Table: 2.2.d Pile type from the LCPC Method 
Table: 2.2.e Curve No. for clay and silt from the LCPC Method 
Table: 2.2.f Curve No. for Sand and Gravel from LCPC Method

Table: 2.2.g Curve No. for chalk from LCPC Method

2.2.4 CPT Modeling

The CPT analysis options for driven piles are available on the boring log, near the top of the screen. There
are three options: CPT – UF, CPT – LCPC, and CPT – Schmertmann. Note these analysis types are only avail-
able for driven pile analysis. If drilled shaft analysis is selected, these options will become hidden, and the
SPT analysis type will automatically be used.

{}
Figure: 2.2.j Soil Data Window

When a CPT method is selected, the Phi Factor will change to the default Phi Factor for the selected CPT
method. However, this value can be adjusted manually by entering a value in the Phi Factor textbox. A table
displaying the default values can be seen by clicking the Details button closest to the Phi Factor textbox.
To import CPT reading data, click the "Import/Export" button. Then select the menu item "Import CPT Data
from File".

Figure: 2.2.k Import CPT Data

Imported data can be of two forms: text files (.txt extension), and excel files (.xls extension). It is important to
note that the imported data need be in the correct units used by FB-Deep. The program’s English units are
as follows: Depth – feet, qt (tsf), fs (tsf); The program’s Metric units are as follows: Depth (meters), qt
(MN/m2), fs (kN/m2). FB-Deep requires that corrected tip resistance, qt, be inputted for piezometric cones.

Imported data must be in the correct format to import successfully. Text File format is as follows: four
columns of data, in the following order: Depth, qt, fs, and Friction Ratio. Column headings are optional. Read-
ings must be on consecutive lines. Comment lines and blank lines are allowed, above the lines of reading
data. Here is an example of the text file format:
The Excel spreadsheet format is as follows: four columns of data, in the following order: Depth, qt, fs, and
Friction Ratio. The following column headings MUST be used: Depth, qt, fs, and FR. Readings must be on con-
secutive lines. The worksheet must be named "CPTdata". Here is an example of the spreadsheet (.xls) file
format:
To view the imported data, click the "CPT Data" button on the Soil Data screen. This launches the CPT Data
screen (shown here).
 Figure: 2.2.l CPT Data Window

Once imported, the data can be adjusted in the table. Clicking the "Sort" button will arrange the readings
according to depth. Clicking "Update Plot" will redraw the plot windows using the table data. Additional
rows can be added to the table by clicking "Insert Row". The inserted row will be positioned immediately
after the row that is currently selected (highlighted) in the table. Clicking "Print" will print a screenshot of the
entire CPT screen. Because readings often number in the hundreds, most readings will not be visible without
scrolling. To quickly find a reading in the table, simply click on the desired depth in either of the plot win-
dows. The associated reading will automatically be scrolled to, and become selected. When saving the input
file (.spc), any existing CPT readings will be saved to a text file (.txt) of the same name. This is done so the
readings can be easily viewed.
CPT Factors

Figure: 2.2.m CPT Factors Window

The CPT Factors Dialog is used to input kb and Fs data for each soil layer. It is launched via the "Edit Factors"
button on the CPT Data dialog. Both kb and Fs values are unit-less coefficients. Only kb and Fs data may be
edited on the dialog. Soil Depths and Soil Types are shown here, but can only be changed on the CPT Soil
Dialog.

Click the "Defaults" button to change all kb and Fs values to default values. If the user does not use this dia-
log, the default values for each soil layer will automatically be assigned.
The default kb values are as follows:
Soil Type 1, Plastic Clay: 1.0
Soil Type 2, Clay and Silty Sand: 0.45
Soil Type 3, Clean Sand: 0.40
Soil Type 4, Limestone, Very Shelly Sand: 0.35
Soil Type 5, Void: 0.0

The default Fs values are as follows:

Soil Type 1, Plastic Clay: 50.0
Soil Type 2, Clay and Silty Sand: 60.0
Soil Type 3, Clean Sand: 150.0
Soil Type 4, Limestone, Very Shelly Sand: 200.0
Soil Type 5, Void: 1000000
3 User's Guide

1. Units
2. Import SPT94 file
3. Boring Log/Soil Data Screen
4. Drilled Shafts
5. Driven Piles
6. Database
7. Graphical Output
8. Backwards Compatibility

3.1 Units

The user can select to work with either the English or the Metric units systems.

For English units:

 l Forces are in tons (tons).
l Lengths are in feet (ft).
l Dimensions are in inches (in).
l Unit weights are in pound per cubic foot (pcf).
l Soil stresses are in pound per square foot (psf).
l Pile stresses are in kilo-pound per square inch (ksi).

For Metric units:

l Forces are in kilo-Newton (kN).

l Lengths are in meters (m).
l Dimensions are in millimeters (mm).
l Unit weights are in kilo-Newton per cubic meters (kN/m^3).
l Soil stresses are in kilo-Pascal (kPa).
l Pile stresses are in Mega-Pascal (MPa).

3.2 Import SPT94/SPT97 file

FB-Deep allows the user to use old files created for the SPT94/SPT97 program. To do so, the user selects
<File-Import SPT94 File> or <File-Import SPT97 File>from the menu. The user will be prompted to select
the SPT 94/SPT 97 file.

Once the old file is selected, the program will copy the data to the latest FB-Deep program input format.

3.3 Boring Log Soil Data Screen

1. Showing Screen
2. Strength Reduction Factor
3. Soil Type
4. Hammer Type
5. Phi Factor
6. Station Number and Offset
3.3.1 Boring Log Dialog / Soil Data Screen

For SPT Analysis, the soil input screen is called the Boring Log. For CPT Analysis, the soil input screen is
called the Soil Data Screen.
To display the Boring Log / Soil Data Screen, select the <Show-Boring Log> (or <Show-Soil Data Screen>)
menu item or click on the corresponding on the tool bar button.
For driven-pile analysis, only the blows count is needed for the calculation for all soil types. For drilled-shaft
analysis, every soil type requires different soil properties.
3.3.2 Boring Log / Soil Data Screen: Strength Reduction Factors

The strength reduction factors should be less than 1. The default values are 1.

The ultimate strengths of drilled shafts are reduced by the strength reduction factor. However, the load-set-
tlement curves are not reduced.
3.3.3 Soil Type

Figure: 3.3.a Boring log Dialog

FB-Deep allows 5 soil types:

1. Plastic clay.
2. Clay and silty sand.
3. Clean sand.
4. Limestone and very shelly sand.
5. Void.
3.3.4 Hammer Type

Calculations for driven-pile capacity and drilled-shafts capacity are based on blow count readings from
safety hammer. If automatic hammer is used, the user is allowed to specify a correction factor as shown in
the figure.
3.3.5 Phi Factor

The three CPT methods used in FB-Deep all use the LRFD design methodology. This results in the use of phi
factor which is multiplied by the nominal resistance to give a design resistance. The default phi factors used
by FB-Deep were determined by research done at the University of Florida. For more information on these
phi factors click on the link below or review the AASHTO LRFD specifications.
http://www.dot.state.fl.us/research-center/Completed_Proj/Summary_SMO/FDOT_BD545_43_rpt.pdf

Each time a CPT method is selected, the corresponding default value will display in the Phi Factor editbox.
This value can be adjusted. To view the default Phi Factor table, click the "Details" button on the Soil Data
Screen.
3.3.6 Station Number and Offset

Prior to version 2.01, the Station Number and Offset were input in a single editbox. Starting in version 2.01,
the station number and offset are input separately. The Station Number can have any value, including let-
ters, numbers or characters. The offset must be numeric, to comply with the FDOT database format. The Sta-
tion Offset Dialog (pictures below) explains the format of the offset.

3.4 Drilled Shafts

 Figure: 3.4.a Drilled Shaft Model

Shaft Material
Unit weight, concrete slump and Ec are used for the calculation of the contribution of the Rock layers to the
Load-Settlement curve. The parameters are available only if the boring log contains rock entries

Section Type
The user can choose a section type from among six options: Concrete Square, Concrete Round, Concrete
Cylinder, Steel H Section, Steel Pipe Pile. Depending on the selected section type, the pile geometry grid
changes to indicate the parameters required for the selected section type.

Insert Pile/Range
The user has the option to either specify a single shaft or a range of shaft lengths that have the same section
properties.
For shaft range, the user specifies the maximum length, the minimum length and the increment. The pro-
gram generates number of shafts with lengths starting with the minimum length and not exceeding the max-
imum length. When, the user enters a value for the maximum length or the minimum length, the program
checks that the minimum length is not greater than the maximum length.

The number of shafts can be generated by a range is 100. As the user enters the maximum length and the
minimum length, the program updates the increment, if the existing increment value results in the gen-
eration of more than 100 shafts. In this case, the increment is modified to satisfy two conditions. One is that
the number of generated shafts is 100. The second is that the maximum length generated by the program is
the closest to the user-defined maximum length.

If the user enters a value of the increment that generates more than 100 shafts, the program rejects this
value and the user is prompted to enter a new value.

Generate

Figure: 3.4.b Generate Shafts Dialog

The Generate dialog box aids the user to generate multiple shaft records with different width. The width is
set to change linearly between the first and last generated records. The user can generate multiple records
of either single or range input option.

The user specifies the maximum width, the minimum width and the increment. The program generates num-
ber of records with widths starting with the minimum width and not exceeding the maximum width. When,
the user enters a value for the maximum width or the minimum width, the program checks that the min-
imum width is not greater than the maximum width.

The maximum number of records can be generated depends on how many records already exist in the shaft
geometry grid. The total number of records that can be entered in the shaft grid is 48. As the user enters the
maximum width and the minimum width, the program updates the increment, if the existing increment
value results in the generation of more than the maximum. In this case, the increment is modified to satisfy
two conditions. One is that the number of generated shafts is equal to the maximum. The second is that the
maximum width generated by the program is the closest to the user-defined maximum width.

3.5 Driven Piles

 Figure: 3.5.a Driven Pile Model

Analysis Type
SPT or CPT analysis method can be defined in Driven Pile model.

Section Type
The user can choose a section type from among six options: Concrete Square, Concrete Round, Concrete
Cylinder, Steel H Section, Steel Pipe Pile. Depending on the selected section type, the pile geometry grid
changes to indicate the parameters required for the selected section type.

Insert Pile/Range
The user has the option to either specify a single pile ("Insert Pile") or a range ("Insert Range") of pile
lengths that have the same section properties.
For pile range, the user specifies the maximum length, the minimum length and the increment. The program
generates number of piles with lengths starting with the minimum length and not exceeding the maximum
length. When, the user enters a value for the maximum length or the minimum length, the program checks
that the minimum length is not greater than the maximum length.

The number of piles can be generated by a range is 100. As the user enters the maximum length and the
minimum length, the program updates the increment, if the existing increment value results in the gen-
eration of more than 100 piles. In this case, the increment is modified to satisfy two conditions. One is that
the number of generated piles is 100. The second is that the maximum length generated by the program is
the closest to the user-defined maximum length.

If the user enters a value of the increment that generates more than 100 piles, the program rejects this value
and the user is prompted to enter a new value.

Generate

Figure: 3.5.b Generate Piles Dialog

The Generate dialog box aids the user to generate multiple pile records with different width. The width is set
to change linearly between the first and last generated records. The user can generate multiple records of
either single or range input option.

The user specifies the maximum width, the minimum width and the increment. The program generates num-
ber of records with widths starting with the minimum width and not exceeding the maximum width. When,
the user enters a value for the maximum width or the minimum width, the program checks that the min-
imum width is not greater than the maximum width.

The maximum number of records can be generated depends on how many records already exist in the pile
geometry grid. The total number of records that can be entered in the pile grid is 48. As the user enters the
maximum width and the minimum width, the program updates the increment, if the existing increment
value results in the generation of more than the maximum. In this case, the increment is modified to satisfy
two conditions. One is that the number of generated piles is equal to the maximum. The second is that the
maximum width generated by the program is the closest to the user-defined maximum width.

3.6 Database

1. Introduction to Database
2. Downloading Walkthrough
3. Uploading Walkthrough
4. XML Files
5. Troubleshooting
3.6.1 Introduction to Database

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), in conjunction with the University of Florida, has
developed a Geotechnical Database. This database contains geotechnical laboratory data, as well as con-
struction as-built in-situ data. FB-Deep features connectivity to this database.

A login account is required to use the database. Contact your company’s technical support department to
have your account created. To learn more, log on to http://fdot.ce.ufl.edu/

Currently, FB-Deep can upload and download soil data. FB-Deep cannot upload or download pile/shaft data
(pile length, diameter, shape, etc), though this enhancement will be added in a future version.
3.6.2 Downloading Walkthrough

Downloading (importing) from the database can be accomplished through the following steps:

Go to the Boring Log screen, either by clicking the Boring Log icon, or by using the ‘Boring Log’ menu item
under the ‘Show’ menu (Figure: 3.6.a)

Figure: 3.6.a Opening Boring Log

When the Boring Log appears, click the ‘Import/Export’ button (Figure: 3.6.b). The database menu will
appear. Select ‘Download Soil Data from Database’. 
 Figure: 3.6.b Import/Export Soil Data

If soil data is currently in the soil table, this data will be deleted. It is therefore recommended to save the cur-
rent data before beginning the download process. Click Yes.

Figure: 3.6.c Warning Message

Database Connectivity message is be displayed. Click OK.

 Figure: 3.6.d Database Connectivity Message

A few seconds after choosing ‘Download Soil Data from Database’, a Login screen will appear (Figure: 3.6.e). 

Figure: 3.6.e Database Login Dialog

Enter a User Name and Password, and click the ‘OK’ button.  (An account is required to use the database.  If
you do not have an account, please contact your company’s technical support).  The database tree will dis-
play (Figure: 3.6.f).  This can take several seconds. 
 Figure: 3.6.f Database Tree Display

Once the tree is visible, search for the desired soil data.  The pile type and analysis type will dictate what type
of soil data should be downloaded.  The following describes the types and location of downloadable soil
data that are currently available, given a pile type and analysis type:

Drilled Shaft, SPT Analysis:  a) Shaft soil data, available under ‘GML → Bridge → Pier → Shaft → Shaft_Capa-
city → Soil_Data’.  This dataset includes the following fields for each soil layer: depth, soil type, blowcount,
total unit weight, undrained shear strength, unconfined compressive strength, tensile strength, end bearing,
mass modulus, RQD reduction modification, shaft socket roughness, and rock recovery.  All of these fields
are supported by FB-Deep. The following data is also downloaded: Water Table Elevation, Boring Number,
and Ground Surface Elevation.  b) Rock Specimen soil data, available under ‘GML → Subsurface → Hole →
Lab_Rock → Core → Rock_Specimen’.  This dataset includes the following fields which are supported by FB-
Deep, for each soil layer: starting elevation (which is converted to a depth with respect to ground surface
elevation), dry unit weight (which is currently downloaded into the total unit weight field in FB-Deep; this
will result in a conservative calculation for skin friction of sand layers below the rock layers; these rock unit
weight values can be adjusted as seen fit by the user), soil description, unconfined compressive strength,
tensile strength, and E100 (intact modulus). The following data is also downloaded: Station and Offset, RQD
reduction modification, and rock recovery.

Driven Pile, SPT Analysis:  a) Pile soil data, available under ‘GML → Bridge → Pier → Pile → Pile_Capacity →
Soil_Data’.  This dataset includes the following fields which are supported by FB-Deep, for each soil layer: 
depth, soil type, and blowcount.  The following data is also downloaded: Boring Number, and Ground Sur-
face Elevation.   b) Soil Specimen soil data, available under ‘GML → Subsurface → Hole → Lab_Soil → Tube →
Soil_Specimen’.  This dataset includes the following fields which are supported by FB-Deep, for each soil
layer: starting elevation (which is converted to a depth with respect to ground surface elevation), soil descrip-
tion, undrained shear strength, total unit weight, and E100. The following data is also downloaded: Station
and Offset.

Driven Pile, CPT Analysis, Schmertmann or LCPC Methods:  a) SPT Soil Layer Data, available under ‘GML →
Subsurface → Hole → CPT → CPT_Layer_Data.  This dataset includes the following fields for each soil layer,
which are supported by FB-Deep: elevation (which is converted to a depth with respect to ground surface
elevation) and soil type. The following data is also downloaded: Cone Sounding Number, Station and Offset,
and Ground Surface Elevation.  b) SPT Data, available under ‘GML → Subsurface → Hole → CPT → CPT_Data. 
This dataset includes the following fields for each reading, which are supported by FB-Deep: elevation
(which is converted to a depth with respect to ground surface elevation), qc, and fs.

Driven Pile, CPT Analysis, UF Method:  a) CPT Soil Layer Data, available under ‘GML → Subsurface → Hole →
CPT → CPT_Layer_Data. This dataset includes the following fields for each soil layer, which are supported by
FB-Deep: elevation (which is converted to a depth with respect to ground surface elevation), soil type, kb,
and Fs.  .  The following data is also downloaded: Cone Sounding Number, Station and Offset, and Ground
Surface Elevation.  b) CPT Data, available under ‘GML → Subsurface → Hole → CPT → CPT_Data.  This dataset
includes the following fields for each reading, which are supported by FB-Deep: elevation (which is con-
verted to a depth with respect to ground surface elevation), qc, and fs.

After selecting the desired soil branch, such as ‘Shaft_Capacity’ or ‘Pile_Capacity’,  click the ‘Get Attributes’
button (Figure: 3.6.g).   This action isolates the soil layer data.
 Figure: 3.6.g Isolate the required soil boring log.

Next, click the ‘Import’ button. 

The imported soil data will then appear in the Soil Data Table in FB-Deep (Figure: 3.6.h)
 Figure: 3.6.h Soil Data Imported onto the Soil Data Dialog

Note that the Soil Description field is disabled. This field is not editable in FB-Deep.  Certain soil data in the
database will NOT have a soil type number, and will have a soil description that does not match one of the
available soil types in FB-Deep.  This soil description (along with other soil properties such as blowcount,
unit weight, etc), can help the FB-Deep user decide which of FB-Deep 5 soil types to assign after the soil is
imported.

It is important to remember that the database soil records may not have been originally uploaded from FB-
Deep. Thus, when these soil records are downloaded, they may lack certain data that FB-Deep requires to
run an analysis.  It is therefore recommended after each download to double check the soil data within FB-
Deep to ensure it is complete.  The units of the downloaded data will automatically be converted, if neces-
sary, to the current units in FB-Deep.
3.6.3 Uploading Walkthrough

Uploading to the Geotechnical Database can be accomplished through the following steps:

Go to the Boring Log screen, either by clicking the Boring Log icon, or using the ‘Boring Log’ menu item
under the ‘Show’ menu (Figure: 3.6.i).

Figure: 3.6.i Opening Boring Log

When the Boring Log appears, enter desired Soil Data in the Soil Table.  Then click the "Import/Export Soil
Data’ button (Figure: 3.6.j)
 Figure: 3.6.j Soil Data Dialog

A menu (Figure: 3.6.k) will appear, with the following choices: ‘Upload Soil Data to Database’, ‘Download Soil
Data from Database’, ‘Save Soil Data to XML File’, and ‘Retrieve Soil Data from XML File’.  Select ‘Upload Soil
Data from Database’. 
 Figure: 3.6.k Import/Export Soil Data

A database log-in screen will display (Figure: 3.6.l), prompting for required info that will be used to position
the uploaded data in the database. 
 Figure: 3.6.l Database Upload Login Window

This required info varies, depending on the Analysis Type.  For a SPT Analysis, the required log-in data
include a) user name, b) password, c) Bridge Number, d) Financial Number, e) Pier Name, and f) Pile/Shaft
Name.  A Project Number is also required.  However the Project Number is input on the Pile/Shaft input
screen in FB-Deep, NOT in the log-in screen.  For a CPT Analysis, the required log-in data includes a) user
name, and b) password.  The Cone Sounding Number is also required, but is input on the Boring Log (Soil
Data screen), NOT in the log-in screen.  After completing the log-in info, click the ‘OK’ button to send the
data to the database. This can take several seconds, but generally will take should take less much less than
one minute.  When complete, the Upload Log screen will appear (Figure: 3.6.l)

Figure: 3.6.m Upload Log Window

To view the results of the Upload, click ‘View Your Upload Log’.  The Upload Log shows the status of each
type of data that uploaded.  For example, the result ‘Pile_Soil_Data inserted’ displays seven times, one for
each uploaded soil layer (Figure: 3.6.n).
 Figure: 3.6.n Pile Soil Data Inserted

If an error kept some or all of the data from uploading successfully, the error will display in the Upload Log. 
For assistance troubleshooting database errors, please email the Bridge Software Institute at [email protected]

The following is a complete list of data that is uploaded to the database.  As is the case with downloading,
the pile type (pile or shaft) and analysis type (SPT or CPT) dictates the type of data that is uploaded, as well
as the location in which the uploaded data resides.

Drilled Shaft, SPT Analysis: this data is uploaded to the following location:  ‘GML → Bridge → Pier → Shaft →
Shaft_Capacity → Soil_Data’.  This dataset includes the following fields for each soil layer: depth, soil type,
blowcount, total unit weight, undrained shear strength, unconfined compressive strength, tensile strength,
end bearing, mass modulus, RQD reduction modification, shaft socket roughness, and rock recovery.  The fol-
lowing data from the Pile/Shaft screen is also uploaded: Project Name, Project Number, Water Table Elev-
ation, and Units. The following data from the Boring Log screen is also uploaded: Boring Number, and
Ground Elevation.  The following data from the Login screen is also uploaded: Bridge Number, Bridge Fin-
ancial Number, Pier Name, and Shaft Name.

Driven Pile, SPT Analysis: this data is uploaded to the following location: ‘GML → Bridge → Pier → Pile →
Pile_Capacity → Soil_Data’.  This dataset includes the following fields for each soil layer:  depth, soil type, and
blowcount.  The following data from the Pile/Shaft screen is also uploaded: Project Name, Project Number,
Water Table Elevation, and Units. The following data from the Boring Log screen is also uploaded: Boring
Number, and Ground Elevation.  The following data from the Login screen is also uploaded: Bridge Number,
Bridge Financial Number, Pier Name, and Pile Name.

Driven Pile, CPT Analysis, with  Schmertmann or LCPC method: the soil layer data is uploaded to the fol-
lowing location: ‘GML → Subsurface → Hole → CPT → CPT_Layer_Data’.  This dataset includes the following
fields for each soil layer: depth and soil type.  The reading data is uploaded to the following location: ‘GML →
Subsurface → Subsurface → Hole → CPT → CPT_Data’.  This dataset includes the following fields for each
reading: depth, qc, and fs. The following data from the Pile/Shaft screen are also uploaded: Project Name,
Water Table Elevation, and Units.  The following data from the Boring Log (Soil Data) screen are also
uploaded: Sounding Date, Cone Sounding Number, Station and Offset, and Ground Elevation.

Driven Pile, CPT Analysis, UF method: the soil layer data is uploaded to the following location:  ‘GML → Sub-
surface → Hole → CPT → CPT_Layer_Data’.  This dataset includes the following fields for each soil layer:
depth, soil type, kb, and Fs.  The reading data is uploaded to the following location: ‘GML → Subsurface →
Hole → CPT → CPT_Data’.  This dataset includes the following fields for each reading: depth, qc and fs  The
following data from the Pile/Shaft screen are also uploaded: Project Name, Water Table Elevation, and Units. 
The following data from the Boring Log (Soil Data) screen are also uploaded: Sounding Date, Cone Sounding
Number, Station and Offset, and Ground Elevation.
3.6.4 XML Files

Related to the database connectivity is the ability to save and read soil data to and from XML files.  To save
to an XML file, click the ‘Import/Export’ button on the Boring Log.  Then choose the menu item ‘Save Soil
Data to an XML File’.  This action saves the soil data to an XML file.  This file differs from a "full" FB-Deep
input file (.spc), in that this XML file does not contain any pile or shaft data.  It contains only soil data (ie,
layer depth, soil type, reading data, etc). This file can later be opened from the Boring Log screen, by clicking
the ‘Import/Export Soil Data’ button, and choosing the menu item ‘Retrieve Soil Data from XML File’.
3.6.5 Troubleshooting

Incorrect Time on System Clock – If the system clock on the computer that has FB-Deep installed does not
match the time on the database server, there is potential for an unsuccessful database connection. The
degree of accuracy with which the two clocks must match is approximately 1 minute. The server updates its
clock automatically via an on-line source. Therefore, if a connection to the database cannot be established,
check the system clock on your machine. (This generally in not a problem on newer operating systems, such
as XP or Vista).

Multiple Soil Sets – A soil set is defined as a group of soil layer data; for example, one boring log of data (see
the section on the Soil Set Selector Window below for further explanation). FB-Deep can only store and dis-
play ONE set of soil data at a time. Thus, if an attempt is made to download multiple sets of soil data from
the database in one download, an "Invalid Data" message will display. The same is true for attempting to
import multiple soil sets from an XML file.

FB-Deep will prompt the user to select only one of these Soil Sets. In so doing, the Soil Set Selector window
will display (Figure: 3.6.o).
 Figure: 3.6.o Soil Set Selector Window

The Soil Set Selector window displays an XML string in tree form. In the tree, each line of Soil Set data will
begin with one of the following tags: "Soil_Data, "CPT_Layer_Data", "Rock_Specimen", or "Soil_Specimen".
These lines of soil data are colored in blue, to make them easier to locate in the tree.

Each Soil Set will have a Soil Set parent tree node located immediately above the Soil Set. These parent
nodes are colored in red. Each parent will begin with one of the following tags: Pile_Capacity, Shaft_Capacity,
Core, Tube, or CPT.
To select a Soil Set (colored in blue), click on a soil set parent node (colored in red). These soil set parent
nodes are positioned immediately above soil sets. For example, in Figure 2, the soil set parent node is <Pile_
Capacity Company="" Hole_Name-"B-5"…… And the Soil Set is the series of blue lines immediately below
this line, beginning with <Soil_Data Depth="0" Soil_Type="3" N="0"….. When a soil set parent node is selec-
ted, the "Select Soil Set" button becomes enabled (Figure: 3.6.p).

Figure: 3.6.p Soil Set Selector Window with Soil Set parent node selected (highlighted)

Click the "Select Soil Set" button to import the soil set into the Boring Data/Soil Layering Table.

After the selection has been made, the Soil Set data displays in the Boring Log/Soil Data window.
3.7 Graphical Output

FB-Deep produces several types of graphical results, all of which are shown in the Plot Window.

Driven Pile Capacity for a range of piles:

Drilled Shaft Capacity for a range of shafts:
Drilled Shaft Settlement for a single shaft:
Driven Pile Resistance for a range of piles, using CPT analysis:
The Plot Window's graph area is customizable. Plot line size, color, fonts, x and y axes range, and the number
of tick marks and grid lines can all be adjusted. The plot area can also be zoomed and panned. To access
these customizable options, click the "Custom" button at the bottom of this dialog.

By default, all curve types are displaced. Curves can be hidden by unchecking them in the "Curves" frame, as
pictured below. Because the x and y axis ranges are based on the currently displayed curves, hiding certain
curves sometimes readjusts the plot perspective.
Graphical data can be saved to a text (.txt) file. The data saved in the text file matches the curves that are cur-
rently selected in the "Curves" frame on the Plot Window. This saved data can be used in other software,
such as EXCEL. Here is an example of the file format:

To save curve data to a text file, use the following steps:

1) On the Plot Window, select the desired curves in the "Curves" frame, by checking and/or unchecking the
appropriate checkboxes.
2) Click the "Save to File" button.
3) By default, the directory for the text file will match the name of the current input file's directory. This path
can be changed if desired, by browsing to a new directory using the "Save As" file dialog.
4) By default, the file name for the text file will match the name of the current input file, plus the ID(s) of the
plotted shaft(s) or pile(s), plus a series of two-letter curve-type codes. These curve-type codes represent the
currently selected curves in the "Curves" frame on the "Plot Window". For example, "SF" is the code for "Skin
Friction", and "EB" is the code for "End Bearing". If all curves are selected, the curve-type code "ALL" will be
used. For a complete list of codes, see the "Curve-Type Codes" list below. The file name can be changed by
typing a new file name in the "Save As" file dialog.

Curve-type Codes

1. Drilled Shafts
a. Single Shaft (Settlement Curve)
i. "SF" - Side Friction
ii. "EB" - End Bearing
iii. "TC" - Total Capacity
iv. "ALL" - All three of the above curves are selected
b. Range of Shafts (Capacity Curve)
i. "SF" - Ultimate Side Friction
ii. "EB" - Mobilized End Bearing
iii. "UC" - Ultimate Shaft Capacity
iv. "ALL" - All three of the above curves are selected
2. Driven Piles
a. SPT Analysis
i. Range of Piles (Capacity Curve)
I. "SF" - Ultimate Side Friction
II. "EB" - Mobilized End Bearing
III. "UC" - Ultimate Pile Capacity
IV. "DC" - Estimated Davisson Capacity
 V. "AC" - Allowable Pile Capacity
VI. "ALL" - All five of the above curves are selected
b. CPT Analysis
i. Range of Piles (Resistance Curve)
I. "SR" - Nominal Skin Friction Resistance
II. "TR" - Nominal Tip Resistance
III. "NR" - Nominal Resistance
IV. "DR" - Design Resistance
V. "ALL" - All four of the above curves are selected

Example File Names assigned by FB-Deep

Example 1:
Given the name of the input file is "MyInputFile.spc".
Given the curve type is a Drilled Shaft Settlement Curve.
Given the selected curves are Side Friction and End Bearing.
Given the plotted shaft ID is 1.
The default file name for the text file of curve values will be "MyInputFile_ID_1-SF-EB.txt".

Example 2:
Given the name of the input file is "MyInputFile.spc".
Given the curve type is a Drilled Shaft Settlement Curve.
Given the selected curves are Side Friction, End Bearing and Total Capacity.
Given the plotted shaft ID is 1.
The default file name for the text file of curve values will be "MyInputFile_ID_1-ALL.txt".

Example 3:
Given the name of the input file is "MyInputFile.spc".
Given the curve type is a Drilled Shaft Capacity Curve for a Range of Shafts.
Given the selected curves are Ultimate Side Friction.
Given the plotted shaft IDs are is 1 thru 5.
The default file name for the text file of curve values will be "MyInputFile_ID_1-5-SF.txt".

Example 4:
Given the name of the input file is "MyInputFile.spc".
Given the curve type is a Drilled Shaft Capacity Curve for a Range of Shafts.
Given the selected curves are Mobilized End Bearing and Ultimate Shaft Capacity.
Given the plotted shaft IDs are is 1 thru 5.
The default file name for the text file of curve values will be "MyInputFile_ID_1-5-EB-UC.txt".

Example 5:
Given the name of the input file is "MyInputFile.spc".
Given the curve type is a Driven Pile Capacity Curve for a Range of Piles, using an SPT analysis.
Given the selected curves are Ultimate Side Friction, Estimated Davisson
Capacity, and Allowable Pile Capacity.
Given the plotted pile IDs are is 1 thru 5.
The default file name for the text file of curve values will be "MyInputFile_ID_1-5-SF-DC-AC.txt".

Example 6:
Given the name of the input file is "MyInputFile.spc".
Given the curve type is a Driven Pile Resistance Curve for a Range of Piles, using an CPT analysis.
Given the selected curves are Nominal Skin Friction Resistance, Nominal Tip
Resistance, and Design Resistance.
Given the plotted pile IDs are is 1 thru 5.
The default file name for the text file of curve values will be "MyInputFile_ID_1-5-SR-TR-DR.txt".

3.8 Backwards Compatibility

Several changes were implemented in FB-Deep, version 1.19. These changes included the following: new
unit skin friction and unit end bearing formulas for concrete cylinder piles with a diameter of greater than
36" (914.4mm); new unit skin friction and unit end bearing formulas for steel pipe piles with a diameter of
greater than 36" (914.4mm); requiring the use of the Rock Side Friction method A qu ^ B if there are any
smooth sockets present in the boring log; use of the new variable Rock Recovery to modify the skin friction
in rock (formerly, RQD Modification has been used. Now, RQD is used only in the settlement calculations).

To allow backwards compatibility, if a user has an old input file (an input file that was created on FB-Deep
version 1.18 or previous), the user can still use the same formulas and methodology that was available
when these older input files were created. For example, if the user has an old input file, with a 40" diameter
cylinder pile, the original skin friction and end bearing formulas will be used, instead of the new large dia-
meter cylinder pile formulas.

To force an old input file to adopt the newest formulas and methodology, simply open the input file in the
current version of FB-Deep. Then resave the file. You will be prompted with a message box asking if you
want to adopt the new formulas and methods. If you click "Yes", then the input file will be saved as a NEW
file, and the latest formulas and methods will be used. If you click "No", then the input file will be saved and
an OLD input file, so all of the original methods will be used. If you do chose to save the file, you might want
to resave the file under a different file name, so that you still have a copy of the old input file, which would
still have access to the older methods, for example using RQD modification for skin friction calculations.
4 User Walkthrough

1. Walkthrough Introduction
2. Driven Piles Examples
3. Drilled Shaft Examples

4.1 Walkthrough Introduction

User’s Guide for FB-Deep (Formerly SHAFTSPT)

F.C. Townsend

The FB-Deep computer program is a Windows based program used to estimate the static axial capacity of
drilled shafts and driven piles.

The drilled shaft methodology is based upon Federal Highway Administration reports: (a) Reese, L. and
O'Neill, M. (1988) "Drilled Shafts: Construction Procedure and Design Methods", and (b) O'Neill, M.W. et al.
(1996) "Load Transfer for Drilled Shafts in Intermediate Geomaterials". The former presents methods for
estimating drilled shaft capacity in clays or sands, and provides settlement estimates. The latter addresses
intermediate geomaterials, soft rock, qu between 0.5 and 5.0 Mpa (1.7 to 17 tsf) and SPT blow counts of 50 -
100; and provides settlement analyses. Load transfer for rock socketed shafts in Florida limestone is based
upon the methodology described in; (a) FDOT Final Report " An Evaluation of Design Methods for Drilled
Shafts)" (1990), which is also found (b) McVay, M.C. et al. (1992).

Driven pile methodology utilizes two types of analyses: SPT and CPT. SPT methodology is based on empir-
ical correlations between cone penetrometer tests and standard penetration tests for typical Florida soil
types. Unit end bearing resistance and unit skin friction resistance versus SPT N values are given in the
FDOT research bulletin RB-121, for the different soil types.
Driven pile capacity calculated using CPT data can be determined by three separate methods. The first
method is the Schmertmann method proposed by Schmertmann in 1978 (AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design
Manual). The second method is the LCPC method proposed by Bustamante and Gianeselli for the French
Highway Department in 1982. The third method is the UF method proposed by Bloomquist, McVay and Hu
for the Florida Department of Transportation in 2007.

FB-Deep replaces earlier versions of ShaftSPT97. ShaftSPT97 replaced SHAFTUF and SHAFT93 and SPT97.

4.2 Driven Piles

1. SPT Method
2. CPT Method
4.2.1 SPT Method

Prestressed Square Concrete Pile

Figure: 4.2.a Staring Screen

1- In the Opening Screen, select:

Units= English Type= Driven Pile Analysis Type= SPT Section Type= Square.

2- In “Pile Material”, introduce the unit weight in pcf of the pile material
Unit Weight= 150 pcf

3- In “Pile Geometry”, click “Insert Pile” and introduce its parameters:

Input= Single Length= 40ft Width= 24in
4- Select form the “Show” menu, Boring log or click the Boring Log icon in the Toolbar to open the Boring
Log window.

Figure: 4.2.b Boring Log

5- In the Boring Log Screen, select:
Ground Surface= 0.0ft

6- Click “Insert Layer” as many times as layers needed and introduce soil parameters:
Soil Type= 3 (Sand) N.Blows= 15 Blows/ft
Note: FB-Deep differs from the program SPT97 in that the last entry in FB-Deep does NOT equal 0

Figure: 4.2.c Boring Log Screen

7- Click “Ok” to go back to the Main screen.

8- In the Main Screen click “Capacity Report” or in the “Show” menu and select “Shaft Capacity Report (Brief
Report)” or if preferable “Shaft Capacity Report (Detailed Report)”.
4.2.2 CPT Method

1. Example 1: CPT Walkthroungh Problem

2. Example 2: Schmertmann Method
3. Example 3: UF Method
4. Example 4: LCPC Method

4.2.2.1 Example 1: CPT Walkthrough Problem

Opening Screen
Units = English, Pile Type = Driven
Unit Weight = 150, Section Type = Concrete Square
Click-Insert Pile: Length = 34, Width = 24

Click Soil (boring log) icon in Toolbar.

Soil Data Screen

Analysis Type = CPT-Schmertmann

Click "Import/Export" button, then select "Import CPT Data from File". CPT data can be imported as a .txt or
.xls file. See "CPT Modeling" for correct units and file format. Then click the "CPT Data button" to launch the
CPT Data Screen.

CPT Data Screen

Find layer changes by moving the cursor to the observed layer change on plot and hold down the left
mouse button.
Comparing the cone bearing capacity graph to the friction ratio graph the user can see different soil layers
as well as determine soil types. Cohesive soils have low cone bearing capacity values and high friction ratio
values. This can be seen for the second layer with depths between depths of 16 and 25 ft. Cohesionless soils
have high cone bearing capacity values and low friction ration values. This can be seen for first and third lay-
ers.
Click-OK when done

Soil Data Screen

Click – Insert Layer

Insert layer with depths found from CPT data Screen.

Note: Schmertmann method uses 2 soil descriptions, cohesive and cohesionless. For soil layer analysis the
user should use soil types 1 and 3. For more information on the Schmertmann method see the FB-Deep
Help Manual.
FB-Deep => Driven Piles => Method of Analysis => CPT =>Methodology => Schmertmann.
Click – OK when done

Methods of Determining Soil Type

1. Cohesive soils have low cone bearing capacity values and high friction ratio values. Cohesionless soils
have high cone bearing capacity values and low friction ration values.
2. Soil types can be determined by using the UBC-1983 Soil Behavior Type.
3. Compare a corresponding SPT boring log.

Main Screen

Click – Cap. Report to view the Output

4.2.2.1 Example 2: Schmertmann Method

1- In the Opening Screen, select:
Units= English; Type= Driven Pile; Analysis Type= CPT; Section Type= Square

2- In “Pile Material”, introduce the unit weight in pcf of the pile material
Unit Weight=150 pcf

3- In “Pile Geometry”, click “Insert Pile” and introduce its parameters:

Input= Single ; Length= 34ft; Width= 24in

4- Select form the “Show” menu, Soil Data or click the Boring Log icon in the Toolbar to open the Boring Log
window.
5- In the Soil Data Screen, select:
Ground Surface= 0.0ft; CPT Methods= Schmertmann; Phi Factor(default)= 0.430

6- Click “Insert Layer” as many times as layers needed and introduce soil parameters:
Soil Type=3 (Sand), from (0.0ft-16.0ft) (25.0ft-42.0ft) Soil Type=1 (Clay), from (16.0ft-25.0ft)

Note: Schmertmann method uses 2 soil descriptions, cohesive and cohesionless. For soil layer analysis the
user should use soil types 1 and 3. For more information on the Schmertmann method see "Schmertmann" .

7- Click “Import/Export” button, then select "Import CPT Data from File" to upload the results obtained for
the CPT testing. CPT data can be imported as a .txt or .xls file. See "CPT Modeling" for correct units and file
format. Then click the "CPT Data" button to launch the CPT Data Screen.
8- Once the file is upload, it can be seen by selecting “CPT Data” located in the Soil Data screen.
Note: Find layer changes by moving the cursor to the observed layer change on plot and hold down the left
mouse button.
Comparing the cone bearing capacity graph to the friction ratio graph the user can see different soil layers
as well as determine soil types. Cohesive soils have low cone bearing capacity values and high friction ratio
values. This can be seen for the second layer with depths between depths of 16 and 25 ft. Cohesionless soils
have high cone bearing capacity values and low friction ration values. This can be seen for first and third lay-
ers.

9- Click “Ok” twice to go back to the Main screen.

10- In the Main Screen click “Show” menu and select “Shaft Capacity Report (Brief Report)”.
4.2.2.1 Example 3: UF Method

Now that you are able to navigate the FB-Deep for CPT analysis, you are now prepared to run an analysis for
a complex set of data. The following data is from the SR 417 extension in Orlando, Florida.

First you should begin with interpreting your CPT data.

Opening Screen

Units = English
Pile Type = Driven Pile
Click boring log icon in Toolbar.

Soil Data Screen

Analysis Type = CPT-UF

Click “Import/Export” button, then select "Import CPT Data from File" to upload the results obtained for the
CPT testing. CPT data can be imported as a .txt or .xls file. See "CPT Modeling" for correct units and file
format. Then click the "CPT Data" button to launch the CPT Data Screen.

CPT Data Screen

Find layer changes by moving the cursor to the observed layer change on plot and hold down the left
mouse button.

Click-OK when done

Click – Insert Layer
Insert layer with depths found from CPT data Screen.
Insert Soil Types.

Note: The UF method uses all 5 soil type descriptions. For more information on the UF method see the FB-
Deep Help Manual.
FB-Deep => Driven Piles => Method of Analysis => CPT =>Methodology => UF.

Methods of Determining Soil Type

1. Cohesive soils have low cone bearing capacity values (qc) and high friction ratio values. Cohesionless soils
have high cone bearing capacity values and low friction ration values.
2. Soil types can be determined by using the UBC-1983 Soil Behavior Type.
3. Compare a corresponding SPT boring log.
See SPT boring below for help with soil layering description.

Click – OK when done

Corresponding SPT Boring from SR 417 extension.

Default Factors
For this example since there are no cemented layers seen in the SPT boring, the default factors can be used.

Click – Yes

Main Screen
Pile Type = Driven
Unit Weight = 150pcf
Section Type = Concrete Square

Click-Insert Pile: Length = 45, Width = 18

Click – Cap. Report to view the Output

4.2.2.1 Example 4: LCPC Method

Now that you are able to navigate the FB-Deep for CPT analysis, you are now prepared to run an analysis for
a complex set of data. The following data is from the SR 417 extension in Orlando, Florida.

First you should begin with interpreting your CPT data.

Opening Screen

Units = English
Pile Type = Driven Pile
Click boring log icon in Toolbar.

Soil Data Screen

Analysis Type = CPT-LCPC
Click Import/Export Soil Data button, then select Import CPT Data from File. Then select the file "CPT_LCPC_
1.txt", which is located in C:\Program Files\BSI\FB-Deep. CPT data can be imported as a .txt or .xls file. See
Modeling under Driven Piles -> CPT for correct file format.

Then click the CPT Data button to launch the CPT Data Screen
CPT Data Screen

Find layer changes by moving the cursor to the observed layer change on plot and hold down the left
mouse button.

Click-OK when done

Soil Data Screen

Click – Insert Layer
Insert layer with depths found from CPT data Screen.
Insert Soil Types.

Note: The LCPC method uses all 5 soil type descriptions. For more information on the LCPC method see the
FB-Deep Help Manual.
FB-Deep => Driven Piles => Method of Analysis => CPT =>Methodology => LCPC.

Methods of Determining Soil Type

1. Cohesive soils have low cone bearing capacity values (qc) and high friction ratio values. Cohesionless soils
have high cone bearing capacity values and low friction ration values.
2. Soil types can be determined by using the UBC-1983 Soil Behavior Type.
3. Compare a corresponding SPT boring log.
See SPT boring below for help with soil layering description.

Click – OK when done

Corresponding SPT Boring from SR 417 extension.

Main Screen
Pile Type = Driven
Unit Weight = 150pcf
Section Type = Concrete Square

Click-Insert Pile: Length = 45, Width = 18

Click – Cap. Report to view the Output

4.3 Drilled Shaft Examples

1. Clay Layer
2. Sand Overlaying Rock Layer
4.3.1 Shaft with Clay and Casing

Example 1 – Section1: Drilled Shaft

1- In the Opening Screen, Select:

Units= English; Type= Drilled Shaft

2- In “Shaft Geometry”, click “Insert Shaft” and introduce its parameters:

Input= Single; Casing Length= 6ft; Length= 40ft; Diameter= 36in
Note: Because the Shaft does not include bell, its dimensions stay zero.

3- Select form the “Show” menu, Boring log or click the Boring Log icon in the Toolbar to open the Boring
Log window.

4- In the Boring Log Screen, select:

Ground Surface= 0.0ft; Cu Calculation Method= CPT

5- Click “Insert Layer” as many times as layers needed. Introduce soil parameters:
Soil Type=1 (Clay); Unit Weight=100 pcf; qc=16 tsf (for first layer); qc=30 tsf (for second and third layer)

Note: For this example, it is necessary to include three layers as the third layer marks the end of the second
one described in the problem statement.
If instead of using CPT method to find the Undrain Shear Stress (Cu), it is used Direct Method, an average of
the Cu for each layer is introduced in the Boring Log.

6- Click “Ok” to go back to the Main screen.

7- In the Main Screen click “Capacity Report” or in the “Show” menu and select “Shaft Capacity Report (Brief
Report)".
a) For settlement of 0.3” → R%= 0.83%

8- In the Main Screen, introduce the value for R% to calculate the capacity corresponding to the allowable
settlement.
9- Click in “Capacity Report” or in the “Show” tab and select “Shaft Capacity Report (Brief Report).”
4.3.2 Sand overlying Rock (IGM)

1- In the Opening Screen, Select:

Units= Metric; Type= Drilled Shaft

2- In “Shaft Geometry”, click “Insert Shaft” and introduce its parameters:

Input= Single; Casing Length= 2.0 m; Length=9.15 m; Diameter=1000mm
 Figure: 4.3.a Opening Screen
Note: Because the Shaft does not include bell, its dimensions stay zero.

Figure: 4.3.b Boring Log Toolbar

3- Select form the “Show” tab, Boring log or click the Boring Log icon in the Toolbar to open the Boring Log
window.

4- In the Boring Log Screen, click “Insert Layer” as many times as layers needed. Introduce soil parameters:
-For the First Layer: 0.0m-6.1m
Soil Type=3 (Sand) N.Blows=10 Unit Weight=15.708 kN/m3
-For the Second Layer:20ft-60ft
Soil Type=4 (Limestone) Unit Weight=21.2 kN/m3 qu=1957.6 kPa qt=95.76 kPa
Socket Roughness= 1 (Rough)
5- Also, in the Boring Log select:
Ground Surface=0.0ft Rock Side Friction Calculation Method= McVay’s
Note: Because clay is not part of the soil profile, the method for calculating Cu is not relevant.

Figure: 4.3.c Boring Log Window

6- If the default values are to be used, click the button labeled “Default qb, Em.” This will autofill the qb and
Em space with the next value:
qb= qu/2= 478.790 kPa; Em= 115(qu)= 110.122 MPa

7- Click “Ok” to go back to the Main screen.

8- In the Main Screen, now that the program recognizes that preset of a Rock layer, it is necessary to enter
the “Shaft Material” parameters:
Unit Weight=20.4 kN/m3; Ec=27785.1 MPa; Slump=152.4 mm
 Figure: 4.3.d Shaft Material

9- Click “Capacity Report” or in the “Show” tab and select “Shaft Capacity Report (Brief Report) or (Detailed
Report)”.

10- In the Main Screen, introduce the value for R% to calculate the capacity corresponding to the allowable
settlement.
 Figure: 4.3.e Settlement Capacity Calculation

11- Click in “Capacity Report” or in the “Show” tab and select “Shaft Capacity Report (Brief Report) or
(Detailed Report)”.

b) For settlement of 5.0mm → R%= 0.5%

5 License Installation

1. Licensing
2. License File
3. License Installation Help
4. Standalone Workstation
5. Update on Network Server
6. Transfer License

5.1 Licensing

FB-Deep offers the following four licensing types:

1. SPT Analysis
2. SPT Analysis and CPT Analysis
3. SPT Analysis with Database Capability
4. SPT Analysis and CPT Analysis, with Database Capability

Depending on the license type purchased, certain features will be enabled/disabled. Multiple license types
can be purchased on the same network license. In this instance, when FB-Deep is run from a workstation,
the user is prompted to choose the license type for the current program run. For example, suppose a net-
work license contains two seats, one of which is an SPT Analysis (type 1), and the other is SPT Analysis with
Database Capability (type 3). When the type 1 license is being used, only the type 3 license would be sim-
ultaneously available.

5.2 License File

FB-Deep operates using a license file to determine its status. All shipped versions run in Demo mode as the
default. The program can be "unlocked" into various modes including full version, networked or stand-
alone. This unlocking can be done by hand, through phone contact with the Bridge Software Institute
(http://bsi-web.ce.ufl.edu) or automatically through an internet connection to the BSI web server.

The program requires a license file to be installed. This license file is linked to the computer on which it is
installed.
NOTE: You must have administrator rights on Windows NT or Windows 2000 to install FB-Deep or the
license file on a server.

The following describes the modes and processes required:

Stand-Alone
A stand-alone or fixed license version is locked to run on a single machine and only that machine. The
license file is installed on the individual machine.

Network Version
A network version is a floating license version that allows a fixed number of machines to run the program at
any one time. For example, a three-seat installation allows three computers to run the program at the same
time. The program is actually installed on any number of machines. For example, you can install the pro-
gram on 20 computers in your network. However, only three of the 20 can use the program at the same
time.

This installation requires a network server that shares a directory with all the computers wishing to run FB-
Deep. The shared directory is where the license file is installed. All client machines must have read and write
permissions for the shared directory in order for the program to run.

There is a separate install program for installing the license file on the server.

If your network installation has multiple servers, you will need to purchase multiple server versions.

Updating the license

Any installed version can have its permissions changed by entering encrypted numbers into the license file.
This is done by choosing the Help->Update Software License option from the main menu. The update can
be done by hand or automatically through the Internet.

E-mail/Fax/Phone License Update

This option is for installations that do not have an Internet connection. To do this installation, call the BSI sup-
port number (check the web for the phone number) and you will be stepped through the process. Numbers
from your computer need to be given to the BSI representative and we can Fax or E-mail the encoded num-
bers you will need to type into the program.

Internet License Update

This option requires the computer on which you are installing the license file be connected to the Internet.
Then, all numbers are communicated through the Internet and the license updated automatically. The com-
puter can either be a stand-alone system or the network server for a multiple seat license.

Transfer License
There is a built in function that allows you to transfer you license to another machine. This allows you to
move the license file from your current server or workstation to a new machine.

Troubleshooting
The license file (both for servers and individual workstations) is locked to a machine based on hardware
components contained in the machine. If you change or modify your hardware (drives, motherboards etc)
your installation may not function. To do this, you should first transfer the license, then modify your hard-
ware, and then re-install the license on the machine.

Novell systems: Be sure that the directory where the license file is saved is accessible to any user. The user
must have read, write, modify, erase and create rights for that directory.

5.3 FB-Deep License Installation Help

Before updating the program license for the first time, the FB-Deep program will run in demo mode. While
running in demo mode, the save option is disabled and the program execution is limited to 30 days. The
reporting options are also limited to the first record, regardless of the number of records. After purchasing
the program, these limitations can be removed by using the License Configuration Wizard.

To update the software license at any time, select Update Software License from the Help menu. Doing so
brings up the License Configuration Wizard.

The initial License Configuration Wizard screen shows four options for updating the software license. The
options are shown below:

5.4 Update a License on a Standalone Workstation

This option is used for a single installation of the software that does not rely on network to run the program.
A license of this type is individually purchased per machine.

Click the Next button to continue. The next screen presents two methods for updating the software license.
The first method allows the user to update the license by phone/fax. The second method is the preferred
method, which allows the user to update the software license via an Internet connection. This method is pre-
ferred since it is completely automated, assuming that a user account has been established in advance and
that the user can connect to the Bridge Software Institute (BSI) web server. The user account will be created
when downloading the FB-Deep program.

FB-Deep utilizes a license file to determine the program configuration. This license file must be updated by
one of the two methods. If neither option is feasible, please contact the BSI for assistance.

License File Update by Phone/Fax

This option requires a phone call to the BSI. To update a license by phone/fax, select Update by Phone/Fax
and click the next button to continue. The next screen shows a series of edit boxes for entering license data.
The Session Code and Machine ID need to be given to the BSI representative. After validating the user’s
account information and status, the BSI representative will then supply the user with a series of numerical
codes that will modify the configuration of the license file. If the numerical codes are entered correctly, the
program will be unlocked and will run without any limitations. If any of the numerical codes are entered
incorrectly, the wizard will prevent the user from advancing to the next screen.

Click Next after entering the numerical codes.

The Update Complete screen will then be shown after successfully entering the numerical codes. In order to
apply the changes to the program configuration, the FB-Deep program needs to be restarted. Clicking the
Finish button will update and automatically close the program. The program will now run in an unlocked
state.
5.5 Set Client Path for a License File on a Network Server

This option is used by the network client computer after a server license file has been configured and suc-
cessfully installed on the network server (see LicServe Wizard). When a floating network license is pur-
chased, the limiting factor is the number of network seats. The FB-Deep program can be installed on any
number of client machines, however, the number of clients that can run the program at one time is limited
by the number of network seats purchased. In order for the client machine to run the program using this
scenario the client must locate the license file that has already been installed on the network server. Once
this path has been established it will be saved so that the client machine will automatically find the license
file each time the program is run.
Click the Next button to continue. The next screen asks the user to browse to the license file path on the net-
work server. The user can either type the path or preferably click the Browse button to locate the file. The
license file is named "ShaftSpt97.lf". Click the Browse button, locate the license file on the network server,
and click Open to continue. You must browse through the network to locate the license file. You can not use
a mapped drive letter.

Click Next after locating the license file on the network server. The Update Complete page is now shown. In
order to apply the changes to the program configuration, the FB-Deep program needs to be restarted. Click-
ing the Finish button will update and automatically close the program. The program will now run in an
unlocked state.
5.6 Update/Install a License on a Network Server

This option is used for a single installation of the software on a network server. This license update is
identical to stand alone workstation update, except that the license is configured on the network server. This
option would be used to run the program directly on the server to take advantage of the server hardware
configuration (i.e. more memory, hard disk space, etc.). A license of this type is individually purchases per
machine.

Select Update a License on a Network Server from the initial screen and follow the steps outline for Updat-
ing a License on a Stand Alone Workstation.
5.7 Transfer License to a Different Computer

This option is used to transfer a valid software license to another computer if the user no longer wishes to
have the license on the current computer. Please note that selecting this option will invalidate the license file
on the current machine. Also, this option is only valid for a stand along workstation installation of FB-Deep.
Floating network installations are not applicable since the license is stored on the network server.

To proceed, select Transfer License to a Different Computer and click the Next button.
Because this process can not be reversed, the user must check the box to confirm the remove the license
from the current computer before proceeding. Doing so will enable the Next button. Click the Next button to
remove the license.
The next screen informs the user that the license has been successfully removed. A verification code is dis-
played on the screen (and written to the file "LicRemoval.txt" in the application directory). This code must be
given to a BSI representative in order to complete the license transfer process and activate the license on
another computer.
Click the Next button to continue. The Update Complete page is now shown. In order to apply the changes
to the program configuration, the FB-Deep program needs to be restarted. Clicking the Finish button will
update and automatically close the program. The program will now run in Demo mode.
References

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Crapps, D.K., "Design, Construction & Inspection of Drilled Shafts in Limerock and Limestone", Annual
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Ellison, R.D., D'Appolinia, E., and Theirs, G.R., "Load-Deformation Mechanism for Bored Piles", Journal of
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