Abstract: The load transfer mechanism in the upper portion of the pile during the load tests is analyzed in this paper. A threedimensional numerical analysis model is developed by considering the pilesoil interface properties. The actual load transfer, vertical displacement and stress in the upper portion of the tested pile are obtained. The effect of pile stiffness on the deflection of the pile section and the side friction are also investigated.

Key words: self-balanced pile loading test, upper pile, finite element analysis