Print this page Special Foundations - Part II
Ruben A. Gomez, P.E.
Course Outline
A simplified slope analysis is proposed, and at the same time, it is compared to other more complex methods which address the refinements in calculations, but fail to solve the trial and error uncertainties that have arisen since the times of the precursor Alexandre Collin.
A real life example is presented by using real parameters as they appeared in practice. In the same manner, consideration has been given to real life solutions using materials and methods readily available in the construction industry.
This course includes a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.
Learning Objective
At the completion of this course, the user will:
- Become aware of the importance of slope stability in foundation design;
- He/she will follow the details of the failure mechanisms of slope collapse;
- Learn about the evolutionary process that has taken place from the times of Collin and Terzaghi to the present day;
- The reader will also have the opportunity to examine an alternative simplified method of analysis; and
- Become aware of the importance of the factor of safety and the limitations of the methods available.
Intended Audience
This course is intended for soil engineers, foundation engineers, construction engineers, structural engineers, architectural engineers and general contractors.
Benefit for Attendee
The regular attendee will become aware of the fact that a well intended and designed structure on a hillside could be in jeopardy if slope stability is minimized or ignored.
Course Introduction
The stability of a natural or manmade slope cannot be predicted with an absolute certainty, although as it can be read from this course text, a reasonable assessment could be made through a well thought plan of action and a thorough site investigation. Such an investigation requires a careful study of the soil and its groundwater conditions, coupled with a study of the local geology and a comparative analysis of the existing nearby stable and unstable slopes as well.
A building structure is well designed when all load combinations have been accurately evaluated, the design methods have been carefully selected and executed, and the working drawings have been prepared in a complete and comprehensible manner for the use of the field personnel who will have the responsibility to bring those ideas to fruition. We all agree that such sequence of ideas will bring good results, however, if the proposed structure is also sitting on a hillside, there is a need to add the help of well applied slope analysis.
Course Content
The course content is contained in the following PDF file:
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Course Summary
This course is comprised of three main parts: slope failure mechanisms, available methods of slope stability analysis and the recommended maintenance program geared to preserve the integrity and safety of the slope.
Related Links and References
The following reference books were used by the author in the preparation of this course:
1- Soil Mechanics in Engineering Practice, Karl Terzaghi.
2- Engineering Manual, U.S. Army Corp of Engineers.
3- Special Foundations, Part I of this series.
Quiz
Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.
DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.
