Excessive Settlement in Buildings

The paper deals with three case studies where the foundations of buildings in the coastal areas of South India settled from 10 to 100 Cms resulting in excessive tilt or cracks in the superstructure. Details of soil exploration work carried out, description of the soil characteristics and the analysis of the causes of settlement are dealt with in this paper. The remedial measures suggested for the possible rectification of the damages are also presented

Failure of Foundation Systems Using Stone Columns

The paper presents the case history of the failure of a major foundation system comprising of ground improved by stone column technique. An in-depth analysis of the soil parameters, design and construction details, gives valuable lessons for the precautions to be adopted while implementing stone column technique

Case Studies of Failure of Cast-In-Situ Piles

The paper deals with case studies of pile failure when cast-in-situ piling systems are adopted. The four commonly used methods of piling are the bailer, direct mud circulation, driven-cast-in-situ and rotary auger system. Failures in each of these cast-in-situ piling systems are discussed based on the failures noted in the initial testing or during execution. The causes for the failure are analyzed and the remedial measures adopted discussed

Failure of an Oil Storage Tank

One of the three oil storage tanks constructed failed while being test loaded by filling with water. A detailed study of soil characteristics and the causes for the failure of only one of the three oil storage tanks is analysed in detail in the paper. A method of stabilising the weak soil for the re-construction of the tank at the same location is recommended based on laboratory studies made