Optimum design of multi-anchored larssen type sheet pile wall for temporary construction works

Abstract

In some construction works such as multi-basement buildings, subways, deep excavation problems are encountered. In such cases, the shoring walls are used to to prevent damage to the structures next to the excavation area and to provide a safe working environment in the excavation area. In cases where a temporary excavation support is required, sheet pile walls can be more economical comparing to the other walls in the long run due to their reusability. In the present study the analyses were carried out by changing various parametric components such as the number of anchors in vertical row, horizontal and vertical spacing amongst the anchors, anchor angle and excavation depth in LARSSEN type sheet piles constructed temporarily in medium-dense sand. In the analyses, the trapezoidal horizontal earth pressure envelope recommended by FHWA (1999) since the stress concentration occured at the anchor locations. Besides the limit values recommended by FHWA (1999) and BS (1989) was used in the analyses. In total 35488 different sheet pile wall geometry configurations were investigated. According to research results, the lowest costs occur when the horizontal spacing amongst the anchors is 3 m and the angle of the anchors with the horizontal is 150. The lowest costs were obtained when the vertical distance of the uppermost anchor to the ground surface is 3 m. Sheet pile sections with optimum cost were modeled in Plaxis 2D to run displacement analyses. Findings showed that the wall displacements were within the allowable limits commonly used in the literature.