Bearing Capacity

Bearing Capacity

The bearing capacity is the maximum load that the soil can support without failing in shear.

Terzaghi's Bearing Capacity Theory

Applies to shallow foundations (DfBD_f \le B) with rough bases.

General Equation

qu=cNcsc+qNq+0.5γBNγsγq_{u} = c N_c s_c + q N_q + 0.5 \gamma B N_\gamma s_\gamma

  • quq_u: Ultimate bearing capacity.
  • cc: Cohesion.
  • qq: Effective overburden pressure at foundation level (γDf\gamma D_f).
  • BB: Width of foundation.
  • Nc,Nq,NγN_c, N_q, N_\gamma: Bearing capacity factors (functions of ϕ\phi).
  • sc,sγs_c, s_\gamma: Shape factors (1.0 for strip footings).

Shape Factors (Square Footing)

For a square footing of width BB: qu=1.3cNc+qNq+0.4γBNγq_u = 1.3 c N_c + q N_q + 0.4 \gamma B N_\gamma

Allowable Bearing Capacity

qall=quFSq_{all} = \frac{q_u}{FS} Typical Factor of Safety (FSFS) = 3.0.

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