Les fondations superficielles et profondes - Partie 1

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of shallow and deep foundations in civil engineering, based on the first part of Omar Cherkaoui's course. Understanding the principles of foundation design is crucial for ensuring the stability and longevity of structures. This guide will cover key concepts, types of foundations, and the criteria for selecting the appropriate type.

Step 1: Understanding Foundations

• Definition of a Foundation: A foundation is the part of a structure that transfers its load to the ground.
• Importance: Proper foundation design is critical for structural stability and load distribution.

Step 2: Exploring Settlement

• Definition of Settlement: Settlement refers to the downward movement of a structure due to various factors.
• Types of Settlement:
  • Uniform Settlement: Occurs evenly across the structure.
  • Differential Settlement: Uneven settling can cause structural damage.

Step 3: Identifying Causes of Settlement

• Factors contributing to settlement include:
  • Soil type and properties.
  • Water table fluctuations.
  • Construction practices.

Step 4: Conducting Soil Studies

• Soil Investigation: Essential for understanding soil capacity and behavior.
• Capacity of Soil: Determines the load-bearing ability of soil layers.

Step 5: Criteria for Choosing a Foundation Type

• Consider the following:
  • Load requirements.
  • Soil characteristics.
  • Environmental conditions.

Step 6: Types of Foundations

• Shallow Foundations: Suitable for stable soils and lighter structures.
  • Types:
    • Isolated Footings
    • Continuous Footings
    • Rafts
• Deep Foundations: Used when surface soils are weak.
  • Types:
    • Piles
    • Micropiles
    • Caissons

Step 7: Selecting the Appropriate Foundation

• Evaluate structural loads and soil conditions.
• Consider using:
  • Isolated footings for smaller loads.
  • Piles for larger structures or weak soils.

Step 8: Understanding Shallow Foundations

• Isolated Footings: Support individual columns.
• Continuous Footings: Support walls.
• Rafts: Large, flat foundations supporting multiple loads.

Step 9: Analyzing Deep Foundations

• Piles: Transfer loads to deeper, more stable soil.
  • When to Use Piles:
    • In loose or saturated soils.
    • For heavy structures.
• Types of Piles:
  • Driven Piles
  • Bored Piles
  • Micropiles

Step 10: Evaluating Advantages and Disadvantages

• Shallow Foundations:
  • Advantages: Cost-effective, simpler to construct.
  • Disadvantages: Limited load capacity.
• Deep Foundations:
  • Advantages: High load capacity, suitable for challenging soils.
  • Disadvantages: More expensive, complex installation.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of foundations and their applications is essential in civil engineering. This guide covers the essentials of shallow and deep foundations, including their definitions, types, and selection criteria. For further learning, consider exploring advanced topics in foundation engineering or related courses.