This article deals with the foundation design and construction of a sound barrier system for the NoordZuid subway line in Amsterdam. A foundation on open ended steel tubular piles had to be applied, resulting from high lateral loads due to the possible impact of crashing vehicles. An extensive soil investigation program was executed which consisted (a.o.) of Cone Pressure Meter tests. CPM tests were used to improve the lateral pile capacity calculations which resulted in a more economic design. Plaxis calculations were performed to analyze the lateral pile behavior close to slopes. Steel tubular piles were installed by means of vibro driving to minimize construction noise. Installation proved to be difficult, as the piles had to be driven through very dense sand layers of an existing road embankment. On certain locations, full soil plugging during driving within the piles was observed, which is quite unusual for large tubular piles.
Subjects: sound barrier, piles, lateral, pressiometer, Plaxis, drivability
Author: J. W. R. Brouwer, Principal Consultant
Publisher: DFI, EFFC