Surcharge Loads around Transformer Foundation Partition Walls

[FAHStructural]

Background:
I am having four (4) existing 500,000-lb transformers replaced with four new similar ones through a jack and slide operation in a switch yard. The existing transformers sit next to each other on concrete pedestals (10' x 10' x 4' deep each) and are contained within four wall partitions (25' x 25' each). Gravel is filled up to ground level around the pedestal for containment of potential oil leaks. Each partition is made up of 2 high walls (2' thick x 20' high above ground) for fire protection and 2 short walls (1.5' thick 3' high above ground) for ease of access from the switchyard. The partition walls go several feet deep in the ground for foundation. The switchyard is leveled with compacted fill that is covered with gravel. The jack and slide plan requires the placement of a 4,000 psf surcharge load outside the partition along one of the short walls.

Question:
Does the short wall that will be loaded by lateral soil pressure have to be evaluated for the 4000-lb surcharge? Is the gravel within the partition capable of resisting the applied lateral soil pressure on the short wall?

 

[SlideRuleEra]

1) Does the short wall that will be loaded by lateral soil pressure have to be evaluated for the 4000-lb surcharge?

2) Is the gravel within the partition capable of resisting the applied lateral soil pressure on the short wall?

1) Absolutely yes... why would you not want to know if the short wall will be overloaded?

2) That will depend, in part, on the answer to your first question. What would you do if the gravel does not provide adequate lateral support?

IMHO, both the short wall itself and lateral support from the gravel will be adequate... but DO THE MATH.

Put plenty of high-quality cover over the top of the short wall so that the wall will not either directly loaded or damaged during the operation.

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