How to Calculate Soil Bearing
What is Soil Bearing?
Soil bearing capacity is the maximum load soil can support without excessive settlement or failure. It's critical for foundation design.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Use Terzaghi's formula with soil strength parameters (c, φ)
- 2Account for depth, shape, and inclination factors
- 3Results show allowable bearing pressure
Worked Examples
Input
Sandy soil φ=35°, c=0, square footing, 1 m depth
Result
q_all ≈ 250-300 kPa
Typical sandy soil
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕Using generic values without site investigation
- ✕Neglecting water table effects
Frequently Asked Questions
What reduces bearing capacity?
High water table, soft clay, and shallow foundations all reduce capacity significantly.
How is bearing capacity measured?
Plate load tests, boring logs with SPT, or laboratory testing provide site-specific values.
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