newbuilder
Structural
- Jul 1, 1999
- 73
I have had a little experience checking slopes using the standard software Slope/w. Together with the standard rules for slopes it is not preferred to impose loads too near the edge of a slope. Often the vertical loads from excavators and the corresponding horizontal loads) will destabilize the analysis.
Recently I have been working on a site where the excavation sub-contractor repeatedly places large surchaghes on the top and edges of slopes (usually the excavator). These slopes are loose fill slopes. Often I am concerned about the safety. The slope angles are steep 50 to 70 degrees. The excavator sometimes even does gymnastics as it moves and reaches. As i stand and observe the ground for distress - I see none. I also persuade the drivers to back off when I feel that things are being pushed too far.
My question is that the slope appears very stable. Could it be that the factor of safety is just lower than the computer analyses assumes or are more complicated geotechnical three dimensional parameters at play. I suspect the latter.
Is there any way of modelling slope stability more accurately by choice of parameters or considering slope wedge edge shear resistances to give more realistic results?
As a designer I was concerned with maintaining safety. As a contractor I need to be concerned with safety and the progress of the work.
I welcome any suggestions.
Recently I have been working on a site where the excavation sub-contractor repeatedly places large surchaghes on the top and edges of slopes (usually the excavator). These slopes are loose fill slopes. Often I am concerned about the safety. The slope angles are steep 50 to 70 degrees. The excavator sometimes even does gymnastics as it moves and reaches. As i stand and observe the ground for distress - I see none. I also persuade the drivers to back off when I feel that things are being pushed too far.
My question is that the slope appears very stable. Could it be that the factor of safety is just lower than the computer analyses assumes or are more complicated geotechnical three dimensional parameters at play. I suspect the latter.
Is there any way of modelling slope stability more accurately by choice of parameters or considering slope wedge edge shear resistances to give more realistic results?
As a designer I was concerned with maintaining safety. As a contractor I need to be concerned with safety and the progress of the work.
I welcome any suggestions.
