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Terzaghi Undrained Cohesive Clay Footing Bearing Capacity (φ=0) Calculator

For saturated cohesive soils under fast construction loading, water cannot drain, so friction angle φ_u equals zero.

Cohesion from vane shear or unconsolidated undrained (UU) test

Foundation transverse width

Depth below finished ground surface

Total unit weight of foundation overburden

Calculated Result
306.6 kPa

Ultimate Bearing Capacity (qult)

Net Capacity (qnet)

285 kPa

Calculation Breakdown

  1. Terzaghi φ=0 Formulationqult = 5.7·cu + γ·Df => 306.6 kPa

Bearing Capacity vs Strength cu

Interactive visualization based on your current inputs

qult
0.0148296444592cu = 30 kPa (Soft)cu = 60 kPa (Firm)cu = 100 kPa (Stiff)cu (kPa)qult (kPa)

What Is the Terzaghi Undrained Cohesive Clay Footing Bearing Capacity (φ=0) Calculator?

For saturated cohesive soils under fast construction loading, water cannot drain, so friction angle φ_u equals zero.

Terzaghi bearing capacity factor Nc is 5.7 for strip footings, and bearing capacity is independent of footing width.

How Does the Terzaghi Undrained Cohesive Clay Footing Bearing Capacity (φ=0) Calculator Work?

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

Terzaghi Undrained Cohesive Clay Footing Bearing Capacity (φ=0) Calculator Formula & Variables

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

q_{ult} = 5.7 c_u + \gamma D_f

Terzaghi undrained total ultimate bearing capacity.

How to Use the Terzaghi Undrained Cohesive Clay Footing Bearing Capacity (φ=0) 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

Strip Footing on Soft Stiff Clay

Input Values:

undrainedCohesionCuKpa:65.0
footingWidthBM:2.0
embedmentDepthDfM:1.5
unitWeightKnPerM3:18.5

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

  • Net ultimate bearing capacity q_net = 5.7 · cu.

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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