Surcharge
A surcharge is an increase in lateral earth pressure on a retaining wall or a load placed over an area to compact soil, crucial for stability and performance in construction and geotechnical engineering.
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Definition
A surcharge is an increase in the lateral earth pressure of a retaining wall, caused by a vertical load behind the wall. It can also refer to a load placed over an area to compact it or change its characteristics.
Purpose
The purpose of a surcharge is to simulate additional load conditions or to pre-compress the soil, improving the stability and performance of retaining walls or preparing the ground for construction.
Examples of Use
- Retaining walls experience surcharge loads from nearby structures, vehicles, or stockpiled materials.
- Construction sites use surcharges to pre-load soil and reduce settlement for future building foundations.
- Highway embankments are often surcharged to ensure stability and prevent future settling.
Related Terms
- Retaining Wall: A structure that holds back soil or rock from a building, structure, or area.
- Soil Compaction: The process of increasing the density of soil by mechanical means.
- Earth Pressure: The force exerted by soil on a retaining structure.
Notes
Understanding and managing surcharges is crucial in geotechnical engineering to ensure the safety and stability of retaining structures and prepared ground surfaces.