Concrete Retaining Walls
A precast concrete retaining wall is normally a structure that retains earth or similar materials, such as aggregates, silage, grain etc. It is most commonly used where there is a vertical change in level or where it is necessary to create bays for the storage of materials.
The most important consideration in the design and installation of retaining walls is that the retained material is attempting to move forward and down due to gravity. This movement creates a lateral earth pressure behind the wall. This lateral earth pressure will depend on the angle of internal friction and the properties of the retained material. Lateral earth pressures are typically smallest at the top of the wall and increase toward the bottom. Earth pressures will push the wall forward or overturn it if not properly looked at. Also, any groundwater behind the wall that is not dissipated by a suitable drainage system causes an additional horizontal pressure on the wall.
A structual engineer will consider these factors and any other points such as the strength of the anchoring system used. They will normally include a safety factor in their calculations to ensure that their is sufficient room for any anomalies. Based on these calculations it is possible to work out the most appropriate product to use that has the necessary structural capabilities.
Concrete retaining walls have gained favour over in-situ concrete walls or timber walls. They are more economical, easier to install and more environmentally sound. There are two methods for fixing the retaining wall in place; embedding them into a concrete floor, or alternatively, using a ground fixing kit. The advantage of the latter solution is that the precast retaining walls can be moved at a later date.
Please visit our retaining walls page for more information.
