Complete Guide to Soil Consolidation Analysis
The Soil Consolidation Calculator predicts settlement and time rate using Terzaghi’s one-dimensional theory. Essential for foundations, embankments, and preloading. Pair with Settlement and Pile tools.
Consolidation Mechanism
Excess pore pressure dissipates → volume decrease → settlement.
Settlement Equations
NC: \[ S = \frac{C_c}{1+e_0} H \log \frac{\sigma'_0 + \Delta\sigma'}{\sigma'_0} \]
OC: \[ S = \frac{C_s}{1+e_0} H \log \frac{\sigma'_p}{\sigma'_0} + \frac{C_c}{1+e_0} H \log \frac{\sigma'_0 + \Delta\sigma'}{\sigma'_p} \]
Time Factor
\[ T_v = \frac{C_v t}{H_d^2} \]
Hd = H/2 (double), H (single)
Degree of Consolidation U
U = f(Tv) via Casagrande or approximate formulas.
Step-by-Step
- Determine e₀, Cc, Cs, σ'₀, σ'p
- Calculate final settlement S
- Find Hd based on drainage
- Compute Tv and U
- Settlement at time t = U × S
Example: NC Clay
e₀=0.9, Cc=0.3, H=5m, σ'₀=100 kPa, Δσ'=80 kPa, Cv=2 m²/year, t=1.5 years, double drainage:
- S = 0.23 m
- U ≈ 78%
- St = 0.18 m
Cv from Lab
| Clay Type | Cv (m²/year) |
|---|---|
| Soft | 0.5–2 |
| Medium | 2–5 |
| Stiff | 5–10 |
Preloading & Surcharge
Accelerate consolidation with temporary load.
Best Practices
- Use wick drains for thick layers
- Monitor with piezometers/settlement plates
- Apply secondary compression separately
Common Mistakes
- Ignoring OCR
- Wrong drainage path
- Using lab Cv directly
Advanced Topics
- 2D/3D finite element
- Non-linear models
- Creep effects
Conclusion
Accurate soil consolidation prevents differential settlement. Our calculator delivers instant, code-compliant results for NC and OC clays. Design safe, long-lasting foundations!
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