2.1. Introduction The pile is derived from the word "Pill" which means sharp arrows or poles from the "Anglo-Saxon" language and some even name it a spade. The pile plays an important role as a key component in moving the base load through low-bearing soil strata to strata or rocks with high bearing capacity.
In normal soil conditions, pile foundations are used to withstand elevations such as offshore platforms, foundations below groundwater levels or basic transmission towers. Pile foundations are also used in soft soil to withstand horizontal loads, such as wind power and earthquake bending forces. Soils that are easy to grow and shrink that are sensitive to soil moisture change also need a pile. In addition, for construction works on water such as jetty and bridge piers, it also requires a pile foundation. There are various types, shapes, sizes and materials used for the pile foundation and the selection is dependent on the specific situation.
