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Culmann Slope Stability Planar Wedge Calculator

The Culmann slope stability method analyzes planar slip surfaces in steep soil embankments and rock cuts governed by the Mohr-Coulomb shear criterion.

Calculated Result
2.28

Factor of Safety (FS)

Critical Failure Plane Angle

42.5°

Critical Slope Height (H_cr)

22.8 m

Slope Stability Status

Stable (FS ≥ 1.3)

Calculation Breakdown

  1. θ = ½ · (i + φ)42.5°
  2. H_cr = (4c/γ) · [sin(i)cos(φ) / (1 - cos(i-φ))]22.8 m

What Is the Culmann Slope Stability Planar Wedge Calculator?

The Culmann slope stability method analyzes planar slip surfaces in steep soil embankments and rock cuts governed by the Mohr-Coulomb shear criterion.

This calculator computes the critical failure plane angle θ, maximum stable embankment height Hcr, and factor of safety for existing slopes.

How Does the Culmann Slope Stability Planar Wedge Calculator Work?

The calculation evaluates user-provided measurements using recognized domain equations, converts between measurement units, and adjusts for real-world efficiency factors.

Culmann Slope Stability Planar Wedge Calculator Formula & Variables

The core mathematical equation utilized by this calculator is expressed as:

θ = (i + φ) / 2, H_cr = (4·c / γ) · [ sin(i)·cos(φ) / (1 - cos(i - φ)) ], FS = H_cr / H

Culmann analytical limit equilibrium solution for critical planar sliding wedge height and safety factor.

How to Use the Culmann Slope Stability Planar Wedge Calculator

  1. Enter your primary measurements in the input fields above.
  2. Select your preferred units (e.g. metric or imperial) if applicable.
  3. Review or adjust operational assumptions such as field efficiency.
  4. Click Calculate to instantly generate the full results breakdown and visual chart.
  5. Use the Reset button at any time to clear the form and test a new scenario.

Step-by-Step Example Calculation

10-meter steep 60° cut slope in cohesive soil (c = 25 kPa, φ = 25°, γ = 19 kN/m³)

Input Values:

slopeHeightM:10
slopeAngleDeg:60
soilCohesionKpa:25
soilFrictionAngleDeg:25
soilUnitWeightKnPerM3:19
Worked Steps: Critical failure plane forms at 42.5° with critical stable height Hcr = 23.3m, yielding FS = 2.33.

Understanding Your Result

Your calculated result represents the realistic operational capacity or baseline output under the specified conditions. Comparing theoretical and effective outputs reveals the direct impact of turns, overlap, and practical downtime.

Factors That Affect the Result

Field terrain, operator experience, equipment maintenance, overlap margin, and weather conditions can significantly influence real-world output.

When Should You Use This Calculator?

Use this calculator whenever you need quick, verified estimates for job planning, budgeting, equipment sizing, or project timelines.

Assumptions & Limitations

  • Slope Stability
  • Geotechnical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering

Frequently Asked Questions

Calculation Accuracy & Reference Note

This calculator implements verified, deterministic mathematical equations based on published standards. Results should be treated as professional engineering estimates; always verify critical operations with local equipment manuals and site inspections.

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