Rough Estimation For Unit Weight Of Deposit By Koelzer And Lara Formula Calculator

Koelzer and Lara Formula:

\[ WT = \left(\frac{psa}{100} \times (W1 + B1 \times \log_{10}(T))\right) + \left(\frac{psi}{100} \times (W2 + B2 \times \log_{10}(T))\right) + \left(\frac{pcl}{100} \times (W3 + B3 \times \log_{10}(T))\right) \]

Percentage of Sand (psa):

Unit Weight of Sand (W1):

N/m³

Constant B1:

Percentage of Silt (psi):

Unit Weight of Silt (W2):

N/m³

Constant B2:

Percentage of Clay (pcl):

Unit Weight of Clay (W3):

N/m³

Constant B3:

Age of Sediment (T):

years

Unit Weight of Deposit (WT):

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1. What is the Koelzer and Lara Formula?

The Koelzer and Lara Formula provides a rough estimation of the unit weight of sediment deposits based on the percentage composition of sand, silt, and clay, along with their respective unit weights and compaction constants over time.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Koelzer and Lara formula:

Where:

\( psa \) — Percentage of Sand (%)
\( W1 \) — Unit Weight of Sand (N/m³)
\( B1 \) — Constant B1 for sand compaction
\( psi \) — Percentage of Silt (%)
\( W2 \) — Unit Weight of Silt (N/m³)
\( B2 \) — Constant B2 for silt compaction
\( pcl \) — Percentage of Clay (%)
\( W3 \) — Unit Weight of Clay (N/m³)
\( B3 \) — Constant B3 for clay compaction
\( T \) — Age of Sediment (years)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the logarithmic compaction of different sediment components over time, providing an estimated unit weight based on the sediment composition and age.

3. Importance of Unit Weight Estimation

Details: Accurate estimation of unit weight is crucial for geotechnical engineering, foundation design, sediment transport studies, and environmental impact assessments of sediment deposits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all percentage values (must sum to 100%), unit weights in N/m³, compaction constants, and sediment age in years. All values must be valid positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical values for the compaction constants B1, B2, and B3?
A: The constants vary based on sediment characteristics but typically range from 0.1 to 50, with clay having higher values than sand and silt.

Q2: How accurate is this estimation method?
A: This provides a rough estimation and should be used for preliminary calculations. Field measurements are recommended for precise engineering applications.

Q3: What is the valid range for sediment age?
A: The formula works for sediment ages greater than 0 years, though typically applied to deposits ranging from 1 to 100+ years.

Q4: Can this formula be used for mixed sediment types?
A: Yes, the formula is specifically designed for mixed sediment deposits containing sand, silt, and clay components.

Q5: What units should be used for input values?
A: Percentages should be entered as percentages (0-100%), unit weights in N/m³, and age in years.