Finite element analysis to simulate installation of Controlled Modulus Columns

T. Amarathunga, D. S. Liyanapathirana, W. Fuentes, C. J. Leo, P. Hu

Research output: Chapter in Book / Conference PaperChapterpeer-review

Abstract

Controlled Modulus Columns (CMC) are a ground improvement method based on column inclusions that have become popular in geotechnical practice due to their simplicity and efficiency in construction. They are installed in soil with a displacement auger that laterally displaces the surrounding soil. During the installation, CMC are associated with large soil deformations and highly nonlinear material behaviour. Hence, conventional small-strain finite element models are not effective in simulating the installation stages because the elements in the finite element model at the vicinity of the auger are grossly distorted. However, as a first step towards incorporating the installation effects of CMC in the column design, the adaptive remeshing finite element analysis procedure is performed in this study, which is available in ABAQUS/Standard and capable of performing a deep penetration problem while avoiding mesh distortion. The soil type considered in this study is sand and hence the constitutive behaviour is simulated using the Mohr-Coulomb Model. The load-carrying capacity of a controlled modulus column and the influence zone around a column during installation were determined considering the stress distribution and soil deformation around a column during installation.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 5th International Conference on Transportation Geotechnics (ICTG) 2024, Volume 4: Applied Ground Improvement Methods
EditorsCholachat Rujikiatkamjorn, Jianfeng Xue, Buddhima Indraratna
Place of PublicationSingapore
PublisherSpringer
Pages115-123
Number of pages9
ISBN (Electronic)9789819782253
ISBN (Print)9789819782246
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2025

Publication series

NameLecture Notes in Civil Engineering
Volume405
ISSN (Print)2366-2557
ISSN (Electronic)2366-2565

Keywords

  • Adaptive remeshing
  • Bearing capacity
  • Controlled modulus columns

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