Geotechnical centrifuge modelling at the University of Western Australia : Fahey, M; Finnie, I; Hensley, P J; Jewell, R A; Randolph, M F; Stewart, D P; Stone K J L; Toh, S H; Windsor, C S Aust GeomechN19, Dec 1990, P33–49

Abstract

This paper has described the new geotechnical centrifuge facility at The University of Western Australia (UWA), and summarised the various research projects that are currently being undertaken using the centrifuge. In addition to the projects already described, there are many other areas where centrifuge modelling may prove useful. The centrifuge, by its nature, is ideal for any problems where self-weight loading is important. Such problems may involve static loading, as in retaining walls, reinforced soil, soil nailing, and the stability of slopes and excavations, or may involve dynamic loading where inertial and flow effects become important. Centrifuge modelling has played a key role in research on earthquakes, and events such as blast loading, where inertial effects are critical. There is also a useful role to play for problems involving flow of granular materials, for example in the mining industry (transport, stockpiling and retrieval of ore and waste material) or in silo design. The range of geotechnical problems where centrifuge modelling may prove useful is enormous, and it is likely that other geotechnical centrifuges will be established in Australia over the next few years. In the meantime, the centrifuge at UWA is seen as a national facility, and it is hoped that researchers and design engineers throughout Australia will make use of the facility. (Author/TRRL)