Numerical Analysis of Laterally Loaded Piles: Foundation of Tracker Systems

Resumo

This paper presents and discusses a numerical study of the laterally loaded pile. The numerical analysis
considers two setups, with different excentricities and points to measure horizontal displacements. Results
highlight the effects of eccentricity and displacement measurement points on load-displacement curves. For
practical application, some quantities and considerations about lateral load and horizontal displacements in SLS
and ULS are presented and discussed. The conclusions presented in this paper can be of great importance for
planning lateral load tests and interpreting their results in solar photovoltaic parks.