Abstract: Based on indoor model tests, the pressure box, strain gauge and reinforcement sensor are used to examine the retaining effect and failure mode of a rectangular hollow pile and a circular cross section hollow pile. The research results show that (1) the maximum bending moment of the rectangular hollow pile and the circular hollow pile occurs about 5 cm above and below the surface, with the distribution range of about 1/4 to 1/2 of the pile length of the free segment. It is suggested that the structural reinforcement in the 1/2 range above the pile bottom to the sliding surface should be strengthened in the design. (2) The bearing capacity and bending resistance of rectangular cross section hollow pile are better than that of circular cross section hollow pile. (3) The arrangement of the water hole will lead to the reduction of the bearing capacity of the pile, and water collecting holes should be arranged in the staggered arrangement. (4) The circular cross section hollow pile is subjected to shear failure along the sliding surface, while the rectangular hollow pile is subjected to compression failure.