Skip to main content

Terzaghi 1D Consolidation Time Factor & Settlement Degree Calculator

Terzaghi's one-dimensional consolidation theory predicts time-dependent dissipation of excess pore water pressure and foundation settlement in saturated clays.

Calculated Result
53.2%

Consolidation Settlement (U_v)

Time Factor (T_v)

0.2222

Remaining Primary Settlement

46.8%

Calculation Breakdown

  1. Calculate dimensionless time factor Tv = cv · t / d²Tv = (2 * 1) / (3²) = 0.2222
  2. Evaluate Terzaghi average degree of consolidation U_vU_v = 53.2%

Settlement Progress Over Time (years)

Interactive visualization based on your current inputs

Settlement %
0.0234669930.5 yr1.0 yr2.0 yr4.0 yrElapsed TimeConsolidation Uv (%)

What Is the Terzaghi 1D Consolidation Time Factor & Settlement Degree Calculator?

Terzaghi's one-dimensional consolidation theory predicts time-dependent dissipation of excess pore water pressure and foundation settlement in saturated clays.

How Does the Terzaghi 1D Consolidation Time Factor & Settlement Degree Calculator Work?

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

Terzaghi 1D Consolidation Time Factor & Settlement Degree Calculator Formula & Variables

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

T_v = \frac{c_v \cdot t}{d^2}, \quad U_v \approx \sqrt{\frac{4 T_v}{\pi}} \quad (T_v \le 0.283)

d is the longest drainage path (half layer thickness for double drainage, full layer thickness for single drainage).

How to Use the Terzaghi 1D Consolidation Time Factor & Settlement Degree 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

3m Clay Layer Double Drained

Input Values:

consolidationCoeffCvM2PerYear:2
drainagePathLengthDM:3
elapsedTimeYears:1

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

  • Applies strictly to primary consolidation; secondary creep settlement requires separate evaluation.

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.

Explore more tools and calculators in Math Calculators