What Is the Rankine Active & Passive Earth Pressure Calculator?
Rankine theory calculates the lateral stresses exerted by soil on vertical earth-retaining structures under active yielding or passive compression states.
How Does the Rankine Active & Passive Earth Pressure Calculator Work?
Calculates active coefficient Ka and passive coefficient Kp.
Computes lateral stress at the wall base σ_a and σ_p.
Determines tension crack depth z_c in cohesive soils.
Integrates lateral pressure over wall height to find total thrust Pa and Pp.
Rankine Active & Passive Earth Pressure Calculator Formula & Variables
The core mathematical equation utilized by this calculator is expressed as:
Rankine plastic equilibrium equations for active and passive lateral stress states.
How to Use the Rankine Active & Passive Earth Pressure Calculator
- Input backfill soil properties (γ, φ, c).
- Specify wall height H and uniform surface surcharge q.
Step-by-Step Example Calculation
Cantilever Wall with Surcharge
Input Values:
Understanding Your Result
Primary output reports total active lateral thrust Pa driving against the wall.
Summary displays passive resistance thrust and tension crack depth.
Factors That Affect the Result
- Friction angle φ (higher φ drastically reduces active pressure and boosts passive resistance).
- Presence of cohesion.
When Should You Use This Calculator?
- Design and stability analysis of gravity, cantilever, and basement retaining walls.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Assumes frictionless vertical wall back-face and horizontal ground surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Calculation Accuracy & Reference Note
Classical Rankine plastic equilibrium formulation.