What Is the 1D Terzaghi Primary Consolidation Settlement Calculator?
Primary consolidation settlement is the time-dependent vertical compression of saturated cohesive soils as water is squeezed out.
How Does the 1D Terzaghi Primary Consolidation Settlement Calculator Work?
Applies the logarithmic relationship between effective stress and void ratio obtained from laboratory consolidation tests.
1D Terzaghi Primary Consolidation Settlement Calculator Formula & Variables
The core mathematical equation utilized by this calculator is expressed as:
S_c = rac{C_c H}{1 + e_0} log_{10}left( rac{sigma_0 + Deltasigma}{sigma_0}
ight)
Terzaghi 1D consolidation formula for normally consolidated cohesive clays.
How to Use the 1D Terzaghi Primary Consolidation Settlement Calculator
- Input clay stratum thickness, initial void ratio e0, compression index Cc, in-situ stress, and foundation stress increment.
Step-by-Step Example Calculation
Building Foundation over Saturated Clay
Input Values:
clayLayerThicknessM:5
initialVoidRatioE0:0.85
compressionIndexCc:0.32
initialEffectiveStressKPa:90
stressIncreaseDeltaKPa:60
Worked Steps: Produces total primary consolidation settlement Sc = 192.1 mm (0.192 m).
Understanding Your Result
Outputs settlement in millimeters and meters; compares final stress against preconsolidation stress.
Factors That Affect the Result
- Overconsolidated clays settle far less (governed by recompression index Cr) until preconsolidation pressure is exceeded.
When Should You Use This Calculator?
- Predicting foundation settlement for high-rises, highway embankments, and reclaimed land developments.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Assumes 1D vertical strain and lateral confinement; valid for normally consolidated clays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Calculation Accuracy & Reference Note
Standard Terzaghi 1D consolidation theory.