Distribution of Cooper E80 Load

[engineertipsman]

I have a retaining wall close to a railroad, and I have figured out the vertical load using the Bousinesq equations. I was wondering how you guys add in the Vertical load? If a surcharge, do you take the whole amount, or do you distribute down through the soil?

 

[msquared48]

You should consult a geotech on this as it will depend on what soil type and proximity to the wall you have as to the surcharge seen, I trust you have a geotech report? If not, engage one.

Normally I have found that a uniform surcharge of a certain extra height of soil is recommended. But that's just my experience.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
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