Height of Wedge of Soil given Weight of Wedge Calculator

Height of Wedge Formula:

\[ h = \frac{W_{we}}{(L \times \gamma)/2} \]

Weight of Wedge (W_we):

Length of Slip Plane (L):

Unit Weight of Soil (γ):

kN/m³

Safety Factor:

Height of Wedge (h): m

Height with Safety Factor (5%): m

1. What is Height of Wedge of Soil?

Definition: The height of the soil wedge is the vertical measurement of the triangular soil mass that may potentially slide along a slip plane.

Purpose: This calculation is crucial in slope stability analysis to determine potential failure mechanisms in soil structures.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ h = \frac{W_{we}}{(L \times \gamma)/2} \]

Where:

\( h \) — Height of Wedge (m)
\( W_{we} \) — Weight of Wedge (kN)
\( L \) — Length of Slip Plane (m)
\( \gamma \) — Unit Weight of Soil (kN/m³)

Explanation: The weight of the wedge is divided by half the product of slip plane length and soil unit weight to determine the height.

3. Importance of Wedge Height Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation helps engineers assess slope stability, design retaining structures, and prevent soil failures.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the wedge weight in kN, slip plane length in meters, and soil unit weight (default 18 kN/m³). The safety factor (default 5%) accounts for uncertainties.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical unit weight for soil?
A: Common values range from 16-20 kN/m³ for most soils, with clay soils typically at the higher end.

Q2: How is the weight of wedge determined?
A: The weight can be calculated from the wedge volume and soil unit weight, or measured directly in field tests.

Q3: When should I adjust the safety factor?
A: Increase for critical structures (up to 10%) or decrease for temporary works (as low as 3%).

Q4: What if my slip plane is curved?
A: This calculator assumes a planar slip surface. For curved surfaces, use more advanced analysis methods.

Q5: How does water content affect the results?
A: Increased water content raises unit weight and reduces shear strength, potentially requiring higher safety factors.