GGU-STABILITY: "Consolidation layers" menu item

The program can calculate excess pore water pressures due to consolidation processes in accordance with classical consolidation theory (one-dimensional) (see "Theoretical principles"). A layer can also be equipped with vertical drains. Input of consolidation layers is almost completely analogous to that of artesian water. Consolidation layers are independent of the layers entered using the menu item "Editor 1/Enter system parameters".

A total of 30 consolidation layers can be defined. You must first enter the "Consolidation time [days]", for which the excess pore water pressures are to be determined. You then select the "Layer x" button. The number in brackets after the layer name indicates how many polygon course points have been defined for this layer. If the "With vertical drainage" check box is not activated, the following dialog box opens:

You must then define the "Constrained modulus", the "Permeability" and the "Settlement duration" of the respective layer. If you enter a value for "Settlement duration" ≠ 0, the program calculates the pore water pressure distribution within the layer at the time:

Settlement duration + t .

Then enter the "Drainage conditions". Subsequent input affects graphical representation only.

If you have defined a consolidation layer "With vertical drainage", a slightly different dialog box appears. Additionally, you must enter the "Drained distance de" and the "Radius of drain rw" of the vertical drain. An input of drainage conditions is not necessary, as only horizontal drainage to the drains is assumed for vertical drains.

The polygon course, which describes the consolidation layer, is entered after pressing the "Edit course" button.

You must enter for each polygon course point:

• x-ordinate,

• base of the layer,

• top of the layer and

• excess the pore water pressure at time t = 0.0

If a slice foot is within the consolidation layer, the program can, using the above described input, determine all necessary values for a consolidation calculation at his point.