Calibration of the Soil–Pile Interaction Model: An Approach Based on the Nonlinear Winkler Model

The design of deep foundations subjected to lateral loads is a key aspect in ensuring the safety and efficiency of structures such as tall buildings, transmission towers, and offshore installations. The nonlinear Winkler model (BNWF), which represents the soil through a series of nonlinear springs using the p–y curve approach, is widely applied in geotechnical practice due to its computational efficiency and simplicity. However, the calibration of p–y curves remain a challenge, as it relies on empirical parameters and often lacks experimental validation, particularly for tropical soils found in Brazil. This study presents a numerical calibration of the soil–pile interaction model based on three-dimensional finite element simulations of lateral load tests on piles embedded in cohesive soils, performed using the ABAQUS® software. The calibration was carried out by varying key soil parameters, including cohesion (c), elastic modulus (Es), and Poisson’s ratio (νs), along with the soil–pile interface friction coefficient (μ). The results were compared with the semi-empirical p–y curves recommended by the American Petroleum Institute (API) for soft clays. As a practical contribution, the study provides representative parameter ranges for cohesive soils, suitable for application in design software based on the Winkler model. These findings aim to improve the accuracy of p–y curve applications in engineering practice and support more reliable structural analysis of pile foundations under lateral loads.