Performance of Tied-Back Walls in Clay

Parametric finite element studies are described that illustrate the relative performances of braced and tied-back wall systems. Key factors in the different performances of the two systems are isolated and the degree of their influence demonstrated. Circumstances are shown where tied-back wall systems perform better than braced wall systems and vice versa. Additionally, the influence of prestress load, wall stiffness, tie-back stiffness, excavation depth, and tie-back spacing on tied-back wall performance are investigated. By judicious choice of these parameters it is shown that the designer can significantly reduce wall movements and soil settlements.