Procedure for Design of Abutments

A series of steps must be followed to obtain a satisfactory design.

STEP 1: SELECT PRELIMINARY PROPORTIONS OF THE WALL.

STEP 2: DETERMINE LOADS AND EARTH PRESSURES.

STEP 3: CALCULATE MAGNITUDE OF REACTION FORCES ON BASE.

STEP 4: CHECK STABILITY AND SAFETY CRITERIA
a. Location of normal component of reactions.
b. Adequacy of bearing pressure.
c. Safety against sliding.

STEP 5: REVISE PROPORTIONS OF WALL AND REPEAT STEPS 2-4 UNTIL
STABILITY CRITERIA IS SATISFIED AND THEN CHECK
a. Settlement within tolerable limits.
b. Safety against deep-seated foundation failure.

STEP 6: IF PROPORTIONS BECOME UNRESONABLE,CONSIDER A
FOUNDATION SUPPORTED ON DRIVEN PILES OR DRILLED SHAFTS.

STEP 7: COMPARE ECONOMICS OF COMPLETED DESIGN WITH OTHER
SYSTEMS.