The effects of the combined loading on the bearing capacity (B.C.) shallow bridge foundations on cohesionless soil are investigated by 2D and 3D finite element analyses (F.E.A.), in conjunction with the main parameters involved, as the embedment depth. For the better visual understanding how the various loading or inherent parameters affect the ultimate B.C. the results of F.E.A. are presented as interaction diagrams of the normalized vertical load, moment and horizontal load. The scour effects on the B.C. of shallow foundation are investigated, through the normalized scour depth.

Shallow foundations, cohesionless soil, embedment depth, scour, F.E. analyses