Construction Project Management Special reference to Alternate Building Foundation methods

Abstract

Purpose: This study gives the theoretical aspects of soil testing and pile foundation design. It suggest general recommendation and alternate design of foundation which gives cost saving. The step by procedures and methodology of alternate foundation is illustrated in the paper.

Design / Methodology / Approach: This is on site and laboratory testing methodologies are followed. This study conducting Standard Penetration Test (SPT) at regular depth intervals. Collecting split spoon samples or disturbed soil samples, Conducting relevant laboratory tests, Recommend a suitable foundation system, Safe bearing pressure at foundation in different level are provided. Grain size analyses are conducted for every levels of soil and Foundation design is arrived.

Findings: This study reveal the alternate foundation design for the soft soil where the generally the costly pile foundation occupied. This study indicated result of Moisture Content, Sieve Analysis, Liquid limit, Plastic Limit and Plasticity Index and Differential Free Swell Test. Actual soil result showed lesser strength which leads to costlier foundation, by the alternate foundation methods this cost can be reduced considerably and the safe bearing capacity of 15 t/m2 could be recommended under the foundations at the depth 2 mts. For safest design it indicates the lowest size of footing or strip raft shall not be less than 1 m.

Originality : The originality of study is focusing on foundation cost reduction and safer building design for the residential sector. In residential side, the focus is very much required because the investors are middle class people who mostly spent their earning on repayment of loan on entire life time for the amount spent on their dream residential building.

Paper Type: Case Based Study