FRICTION SLABS
Product Overview
Reinforced concrete cantilever retaining walls are designed with a thin stem and base slab. These walls are a cost-effective alternative to gravity walls, using less concrete while still ensuring strength and durability. The design involves a stem, which may be either of constant thickness or tapered based on structural and economic considerations. The base is divided into two parts: the heel, which is located beneath the backfill, and the toe.
Key Features
- Economic Design: Uses less concrete compared to monolithic gravity walls while ensuring durability and performance
- Versatile Stem Design: Can be designed with either constant thickness or tapered stem, depending on the project's needs
- Durable Foundation: The cantilever design is supported by a reinforced concrete slab with a shear key, ensuring sliding resistance
- Factory Precast or On-site Formation: Can be precast in a controlled factory environment or cast on-site for increased flexibility
- Cost-Effective: Most economical for wall heights up to 25 feet
Applications
- Construction Projects: Ideal for use in civil infrastructure projects, including road construction, landscaping, and terracing
- Heavy Load Support: Effectively resists lateral soil pressure in retaining wall applications
Design Considerations
- Tapered Cantilever Design: The tapered stem and base offer enhanced strength while using reduced material
- Precision Engineering: Designed with careful analysis and testing using software like spWall and spMats
Dimensions
- Height: Up to 25 ft (economical range)
- Base Width: Dependent on project specifications
- Stem Thickness: Variable based on the taper design