Evaluation of Existing P-Y Models For Caliche Based on Numerical Analysis of Raiders Stadium Lateral Load Tests-Video

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The presentation evaluates two existing p-y models—Waghi limestone and Florida limestone—for modeling caliche, a highly variable, cemented geomaterial common in the Las Vegas area. The study used data from four instrumented lateral load tests on 24-inch CFA piles at Raiders Stadium and modeled pile response with the in-house finite-difference program NVShaft. Because the project lacked detailed caliche characterization, the researchers developed simplified soil profiles from site-specific geotechnical reports and used literature-based correlations to estimate material properties.<br /><br />Both models generally predicted pile deflections reasonably well at design and twice-design loads. Waghi limestone performed better overall, while predictions became less reliable at higher loads. The study’s main limitation was uncertainty in caliche properties; its substantial spatial variability makes site- and test-specific characterization essential. The presenters noted that NVShaft is currently used by NDOT, but future public availability is undecided.

Keywords

p-y models

caliche

lateral load tests

pile deflection

NVShaft