Rigid Inclusion Alternative for Column Supported Embankment: PennDOT SR95 GR4 Case Study-PPT Presentation

PPT Presentation

Pdf Summary

The presentation describes the use of Controlled Modulus Columns (CMCs) as a cost-saving ground-improvement alternative for supporting the GR-4 project along the I-95 corridor.<br /><br />Unlike conventional piles, CMCs work by sharing loads with the surrounding ground. A load-transfer platform distributes structural loads between the columns and the soil, while load transfer along each column varies with depth. The design considers the interaction between the CMCs and surrounding soils, including positive and negative skin friction and the neutral axis.<br /><br />The project’s CMC design was evaluated using two-dimensional finite-element analysis in PLAXIS 2D. The analysis examined the load-transfer platform, sensitivity to loading and soil layers, and alternative CMC configurations. The presentation also notes that simplified symmetric, one-dimensional compression models can help with confirmatory analyses and column-spacing refinement, but may not capture edge effects, non-uniform loading, or lateral deformation.<br /><br />The slides cover the GR-4 site soils, piling plans, CMC design and layout, and installation. Overall, the presentation outlines how CMCs were designed and installed as an alternative foundation solution for the project.

Keywords

Controlled Modulus Columns

CMC design

ground improvement

load transfer platform

PLAXIS 2D

foundation alternative

I-95 corridor

skin friction

neutral axis

soil interaction