Numerical analysis for a slope reinforced with one row of piles

3D numerical analysis is presented for a slope reinforced with one row of piles by the three-dimensional elasto-plastic shear strength reduction finite difference method. The numerical results show that the factor of safety increases with the decrease of piles spacing, and the piles becomes more like a barrier and the influence of soil arching becomes more pronounced as the pile spacing decreases. The critical slip surface is found to be divided into two parts when the pile spacing is small, and these two parts gradually get connected with the increase of pile spacing until a clear critical slip surface is formed. The shear strength reduction finite difference method indicates that the pile row needs to be installed in the middle of the slope for maximum safety.