Pile caps

1. Piles are not usually used singly but are formed into a group
2. THe load is distrivuted over the heads of the piles in the group by means of reinforced cast in-situ concrete pile cap
3. Piles should be spaced at such a distance that the group is economically formed and at the same time any interaction between adjacent piles is prevented
4. THe plan shape of the pile cap should be as consercative as possible , and this is usually achieved by having an overhang of 150mm .
5. The main reinforcement is two-directional , formed in bands over the pile heads to spread the loads
6. To provide strucral continuity , the reinforcement in the piles is bonded into the pile cap; this may necesstate the breaking out of the concrete from the heads of the piles to expose the reinforcement .
7. THe heads of piles also penetrate the base of the pile cap some 100 to 150 mm ti ebsyre contitibuity of the members
8. In many piling schemes , especially where capped single piles are used , the pile caps are tied together with reinforced concrete tie beams ,
9. THe beams can be used to carry loadings such as walls to the pile foundations
10. Excavate untul the bottom of pile cap (machine)
11. Manual digging and levelling using hoe ( maan power)
12. Lean concrete about 50mm for easy work area , cutting off piles tops
13. Install pile tap formwork