The finite element method is a consistent mathematical procedure of dividing a physical problem into smaller elements where known solutions can be applied by approximation. Hence, finite elements involve a successive corrective approach until a solution is found within specified tolerances.

Finite element methods (herein FEM) can be particularly usefull in soil-structure-interaction problems (excavations, foundations, etc.). Not every project warrants the use of FEM. However, critical projects such as excavations next to sensitive historical structures can benefit from the insight provided by the FE method. FEM is probably the only available tool to engineers for analyzing three dimensional problems. In contract to conventional methods, FEM is the only capable procedure for capturing non-linear soil behavior.

It is almost certain that given the same geotechnical FEM problem and where parameters have to be estimated, two engineers will arrive at different but hopefully similar results. This is to be expected because the great number of parameters that have to be estimated. Finite element analyses should be performed by experienced engineers and will yield better results when good soil testing results are available.

Deep Excavation LLC, has a wide range of finite element analyses capabilities. We can model both 2-Dimensional and 3-Dimensional problems.

Please contact us we will gladly assist you in your project.