Computer aided slope stability analysis

Abstract

Primary purpose of slope stability analysis in most of the engineering applications is to provide safe and economic design of slopes that prevent failure. The analysis technique chosen depends on both site conditions and potential mode of failure which depends upon the rock mass characteristics. Various slope stability analysis techniques include physical, numerical and analytical methods. Physical modeling is a time consuming process and a costly affair, while analytical method involves past experiences, it is site specific and depends upon various parameters which are difficult to quantify. Numerical analysis with sophisticated softwares provides an accurate solution within short duration. This paper presents an in-house developed software package called "V-slope" to analyze and interpret the slope with options for suggesting suitable safety measures based on the nature of slope. Slip circle and tension crack techniques were considered for analysis. The slope profile for different factor of safety (FOS) values will be displayed on the screen for easy understanding. In case the FOS is lower than the required, the V-slope gives suggestive measures. In case of temporary slopes the only way by which slope failure can be prevented is by decreasing the slope angle and in such cases the program gives additional volume of material to be excavated and the likely additional cost incurred for various slope angle options. For permanent slopes, option is provided for designing the soil nails, i.e. number of bolts required, length, diameter and spacing of the bolts etc. Finally the V-slope is compared with a comprehensive commercial software package Slide and the results were found very much satisfactory.