A simplified framework for estimation of deformation pattern in deep excavations

To stabilize the excavations in urban area, soil anchorage is among the very common methods in geotechnical engineering. A more efficient deformation analysis can potentially lead to cost-effective and safer designs. To this end, a total of 116 three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) models of a deep excavation supported by tie-back wall system were analyzed in this study. An initial validation was conducted through examination of the results against the Texas A&M excavation cases. After the validation step, an extensive parametric study was carried out to cover significant design parameters of tie-back wall system in deep excavations. The numerical results indicated that the maximum horizontal displacement values of the wall (shm) and maximum surface settlement (svm) increase by an increase in the value of ground anchors inclination relative to the horizon. Additionally, a change in the wall embedment depth was found to be contributing more to svm than to shm. Based on the 3D FE analysis results, two simple equations are proposed to estimate excavation deformations for different scenarios in which the geometric configuration parameters are taken into account. The model proposed in this study can help the engineers to have a better understanding of the behavior of such systems.