Case Histories of Numerical Methods in Geotechnical Engineering: Benefits & Lessons Learnt by Experts

Event Details

Numerical analysis using finite element and finite difference methods has transformed from a niche to mainstream design tool within geotechnics in the last decade. This is due to the development of sophisticated yet accessible 2D and 3D programs that model the ground and adjacent structures, together with increased training in use of this technology.

Many lessons are learned through hindsight. Looking at case histories is not only a great way to understand post design behaviour of the structures installed; there are also significant benefits in learning from what others have done, through both their positive and negative experiences.

Two eminent geotechnical engineering professionals who have helped pioneer the development and application of these programs will give keynote lectures during morning and afternoon sessions. There will also be presentations by a number of leading geotechnical engineering companies on their experiences using numerical analysis.

Objectives

The objectives of the seminar are to enable the delegates to:

• Appreciate the potential impact that numerical methods have on the geotechnical design.
• Recognise and understand the various benefits from numerical methods through the presentations of case studies.
• Understand how to improve the use of geotechnical numerical analysis by learning from practitioners within the industry.
• Realise the future direction for geotechnical design using numerical methods.

The event will also provide an opportunity to network with other delegates and share knowledge and experiences in applying numerical analysis within geotechnics.

Who should attend?

This seminar is intended for:-

• Geotechnical engineers and analysts of any level and experience, who are already using or considering undertaking numerical analysis.
• Stakeholders who commission geotechnical works.
• Equipment manufacturers who develop geotechnical instrumentation.

Agenda

09:30 Coffee& Registration

• Welcome & Introduction
  • Tim Morris, NAFEMS
  • Ashraf Hamalawi, EMGG
  • Peter Scott, NAFEMS GC

• Keynote Lecture 1, Brian Simpson, Arup

• Presentations chaired by David Potts and Brian Simpson

• “High Rise using Pile Assisted Raft, including Pile Tests, Specialist SI and Back Analysis Based on Monitored Data”, Peter Scott & Jonathan Dewsbury, Buro Happold

• “Calibrated Numerical Model for Assessment of Safe TBM Operating Pressures”, Yu Sheng Hsu, Mott MacDonald

13:00 Lunch break

• Keynote Lecture 2, Tony O’Brien, Mott MacDonald

• Presentations Chaired by Prof Andrew Chan and Dr Tony O’Brien

• “A Practical Application of FEA to Derive Soil Displacements and Investigate the Effects on Piles from Jack-up Installation”,
  Nigel Kee and Lindsey Cubbon (Fugro)

• “Basal Instability Adopting Conventional and FE (Utilising Different Material Models)”, Alex Nikolic and Angelo Fasano (Buro Happold)

• “Closing Remarks”, Peter Scott, Chairman of the NAFEMS Geotechnical Committee

17:00 Close