Geotechnical numerical analysis
Numerical analysis that tests your design before you build
Testing designs prior to building
Loading conditions such as new loads, excavations, or groundwater cause ground behaviour to change. Many times, simple assumptions made by designers don’t capture these interactions.
At Geotesta, we build numerical models from investigation data, laboratory results and in-situ testing to simulate how the ground behaves under proposed loads and changing conditions, such as groundwater or nearby structures. This helps the design team assess construction risk and identify any extra controls needed.
Numerical Analysis Scope
Finite element modelling (FEM)
Finite element modelling represents both the structure and the surrounding ground. This allows engineers to assess how loads and ground conditions interact.
Stress analysis
Using FEM we can model how added loads are redistributed through soil and rock, thereby identifying zones where excessive stress or movement may occur.
Deformation modelling
We can forecast settlement, lateral displacement, or deformation of a structure against the project specifications before the design is finalised.
Seepage modelling
Our seepage modelling evaluates how groundwater and/or seepage may impact ground pressure, slope stability, excavations or subsurface structures.
Pavement modelling
Pavement analysis evaluates how sub-grade conditions, moisture content, and loadings may result in pavement distresses or deformations, or reduce overall pavement performance.
Scenario testing
Modelling can compare different loads, groundwater levels, geometries and mitigation strategies. This helps engineers understand how sensitive a design may be to each option.
Analysis based on real ground data
Frequently asked questions
Geotechnical numerical analysis uses computer models simulating how soils, rocks, water beneath the surface and structures may interact due to proposed loading conditions, excavation or changes within the immediate area surrounding a project.
Numerical modelling is often used when ground conditions or project interactions are far too complex for standard calculations, especially when there are high levels of groundwater, adjacent structures, or heavy loads involved.
No. The need depends on the specifics of the project, ground conditions and degree of risk associated with designing for those conditions. For example: high levels of groundwater or complex geometries near adjacent structures are examples of when modelling could be beneficial, or even necessary.
You may need borehole data, soil/rock parameters, laboratory results, in-situ test results, water table levels, proposed geometry, structural loadings, and stages of construction.
Yes. Wherever possible Geotesta reviews your existing investigation data for suitability to utilise as inputs into your model. If certain critical parameters are missing or uncertain, further testing may be recommended.
FEM can identify stress distribution, settlement, deformation and interactions between soil and structures. It can also assess how excavation may affect the ground under different design and construction scenarios.