Skip to main content
Skip table of contents

GGU-RETAIN: Analysis of mobilised passive earth pressure using global safety factors

In accordance with the EAB R 9 and Weißenbach (Geotechnical Engineering Handbook, Volume 3, 2001), two cases must be distinguished:

  • Case 1
    The vertical forces acting downwards are relatively small.

  • Case 2
    The vertical forces acting downwards are greater than the vertical components of passive earth pressure determined using a negative angle of wall friction.

In Case 1, Weißenbach (Geotechnical Engineering Handbook, Volume 3, 2001) gives the following relationship:

ηv = (Pv + Eav + Cv + G) / Epv

  • Eav = vertical component of active earth pressure

  • Cv = vertical component of the counterforce C for toe fixation

  • G = self-weight of wall

  • Pv = permanent external loads (including vertical components of anchors)

  • Epv = vertical component of passive earth pressure

In accordance with the EAB, Cv is always determined as 1/3 · φ. The EAB gives a safety factor of 1.5.

In Case 2, Weißenbach (Geotechnical Engineering Handbook, Volume 3, 2001) gives the following relationship:

ηv = Qg / (Pv + Eav + G)

  • Qg = vertical ultimate bearing capacity of the wall or soldier piles
    Qg can be determined pursuant to DIN 4026 or DIN 4014.

Further useful information relating to verification of V can be found in Weißenbach (Geotechnical Engineering Handbook, Volume 3, 2001).

If the wall toe is bedded, Epv is determined from the positive subgrade reactions and the angle of wall friction.

JavaScript errors detected

Please note, these errors can depend on your browser setup.

If this problem persists, please contact our support.