Pile Cap Design Checklist — ACI 318-19 (Concise)
Key checks, parameters & clause references (summary; verify with official ACI text)
1. Project & Code
Edition: ACI 318-19. Confirm project-specific modifications, material properties (fc', fy), and factored loads (φ, load
combinations).
2. Geometry & Layout
• Cap plan & pile layout; locate critical sections for moment and shear. • Minimum edge distance (centre-to-edge) and
centre-to-centre pile spacing — refer to shallow foundations / pile cap provisions (see ACI clauses on pile/raft
spacing).
3. Flexure (Bending)
• Compute factored moments from pile reactions and column loads. • Provide flexural reinforcement = required As ≥ Av,min
where applicable. • Check development length and anchorage per Chapter 25.
4. One-way & Two-way Shear
• One-way shear (beam-like) and two-way (punching) shear checks required. • Use the ACI 318-19 sectional shear strength
equations (Chapter 22). Note new size-effect factor λs for shear capacity ([Link] and related clauses).
5. Punching Shear (column & piles)
• Check punching at column face and around individual/paired piles. • Perimeter typically located at d/2 from loaded
area; adjust per code and geometry. • When using shear reinforcement, apply ACI [Link] provisions for critical section
location.
6. Minimum Depth & Serviceability
• Minimum cap thickness to resist shear/punching and to provide cover and development length. • Control of deflections
and cracking per serviceability requirements.
7. Reinforcement Layout & Development
• Provide top & bottom reinforcement as required; arrange congestion to allow concrete placement. • Development length
for bars per Chapter 25 (e.g., Eq. 25.4.2.4a and related). Consider hooks/heads only where permitted.
8. Concrete Strength & Size Effects
• Apply size-modification factor(s) for one-way/two-way shear and strut strength per ACI 318-19 (λs). Verify use for
normal-weight or lightweight concrete.
9. Special checks (seismic / uplift / eccentric loads)
• If seismic or uplift conditions apply, follow the relevant seismic chapters and shallow foundation requirements
(development, confinement, and detailing).
10. Detailing & Construction
• Cover, corrosion protection, spacing and anchorage; ensure access for concreting and compaction. • Sequence of load
transfer from column → cap → piles during construction considered.
11. References & Notes
• This checklist is a concise summary for quick use. Always verify clause wording and perform calculations with the
official ACI 318-19 code and referenced commentary. • Key ACI clauses to consult: Chapter 13 (shallow foundations/pile
caps), Chapter 22 (shear), Chapter 25 (development of reinforcement).
Generated: Pile cap checklist based on ACI 318-19 summaries. Verify with official ACI text.
