Parametric Analysis of a Retaining System Formed by Anchored Piles in Urban Excavations

The earth-retaining system made up of discontinuous anchored piles is widely used in urban areas because it uses construction methods that are easy to install and low cost. These retention systems typically comprise a line of discontinuous piles, anchors, and a capping beam connecting all piles in the row. This study evaluated the influence of geometric parameters and horizontal deformations in the containment system comprising discontinuous piles. For the above, a three-dimensional Finite Element Model was calibrated based on the geomechanical characteristics of the soil profile and the deformations in the retaining system. Variations were made to the numerical model in the values of the surcharge, the inclination of the anchors, the diameter of the piles, the embedment of the pile, and the use of the capping beam. The results showed that the surcharge, the piles' embedment, and the piles' diameter directly affect the retention system's horizontal deformations. It was observed that the optimal inclination of the anchors is 10°–20° concerning the horizontal, and the use of the capping beam plays an essential role in the control of deformations at the top of the retaining system.