Cost Analyses of Pile Foundation Systems based on Engineering Design and Construction Method

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A foundation acts as the load transfer media from the superstructure to the underlying soil or rock. It is essential to systematically consider various foundation types and to select the optimum alternative based on the superstructure requirements, the subsurface conditions, and economy. From the perspective of engineering, different pile foundation systems can be feasible alternatives to fulfill the same purpose (i.e. satisfying identical loading requirements in identical soil conditions), but markedly differ in constructability, cost and schedule. A potential foundation solution may appear to be the most economical from a pure design perspective, but may not be the most economical when limitations on construction activities are fully considered. The critical decision process should entail comprehensive evaluation on (1) the availability of local engineering and construction expertise, (2) availability of materials and equipment, (3) environmental limitations, (4) costs for both materials, (5) materials handling and crew installation, and (6) other associated substructure costs including pile cap or sub-superstructure connections. As a geotechnical foundation designer and constructor, Almita is interested in (1) optimizing foundation designs to meet client expectations on three variables: technical performance, cost, and schedule; (2) a comparative analysis based on the simulation of three different foundation systems: helical piles, driven steel piles and concrete. The PI's construction engineering & management (CEM) research group at the University of Alberta will engage Almita to launch the research aimed at cost and schedule comparison of each of the three foundation systems named above, keeping technical performance constant. A scientific framework integrating engineering design and construction management will be developed and applied. Upon completion of the research assignment, a final technical report outlining the benefits of using one foundation system over another in regards to cost and schedule efficiency will be produced.