Weight of Wedge of Soil Calculator

Weight of Wedge Formula:

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

Weight of Wedge (kN):

1. What is Weight of Wedge of Soil?

Definition: This calculator determines the weight of a soil wedge in kilonewtons based on the length of the slip plane, height of the wedge, and unit weight of the soil.

Purpose: It helps geotechnical engineers and construction professionals analyze slope stability and potential failure planes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

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

Where:

\( W_{we} \) — Weight of wedge (kN)
\( L \) — Length of slip plane (m)
\( h \) — Height of wedge (m)
\( \gamma \) — Unit weight of soil (N/m³)

Explanation: The formula calculates the triangular area of the wedge and multiplies by the unit weight of soil.

3. Importance of Wedge Weight Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation is crucial for slope stability analysis, retaining wall design, and assessing potential landslide risks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the length of slip plane (m), height of wedge (m), and unit weight of soil (N/m³). All values must be > 0. Results include ±5% tolerance.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a slip plane?
A: A slip plane is the potential surface along which soil mass may slide or fail.

Q2: How is wedge height determined?
A: Wedge height is typically the vertical distance from the slope crest to the slip plane.

Q3: What are typical unit weights for soil?
A: Common ranges: 16-22 kN/m³ for most soils, 18-20 kN/m³ being typical.

Q4: Why divide by 2 in the formula?
A: The division by 2 accounts for the triangular cross-section of the wedge.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation provides an estimate with ±5% accuracy under standard conditions.