Pile and Pier Foundations

Start with the foundations

Begin with Piled Foundations, a mind map that introduces pile types, construction methods and factors influencing their choice. It also describes piles as slender columns used to transmit foundation loads and reach stronger ground. Use its branches to organize the terms before moving to a more focused resource.

The Deep Foundations flashcards offer questions about when deep pile foundations are used, what a pile is and what an end-bearing pile is. They provide a way to recall the terms after studying the map.

Explore selection and capacity

The mind map Factors affecting the choice of pile brings together ground conditions, structural needs, access, environment and costs. It also raises the problems that can arise with driven piles in an urban area. Compare these branches with the selection factors in Piled Foundations.

Next, use Ultimate axial capacity of piles to focus on end bearing and friction. Its end-bearing branch describes carrying capacity arising from resistance at the toe of the pile. The mind map gives you a focused view of capacity after the broader introduction.

Use questions and maps together

There are no quizzes listed on this page, but the flashcards provide questions for quiz-style practice. Try recalling an answer, then return to a relevant mind map to check the connections between terms. The Wood Piers deck asks learners to identify wood piers and distinguish foundation items.

Connect to the unit

Pile and Pier Foundations is a section of Foundations and Substructure in Civil engineering and construction. The Substructure flashcards connect this page to the wider unit through questions on ground investigations, the water table and dewatering. After working through the maps, use those questions to connect pile and pier study with substructure. Choose a resource and start exploring.