Training on Calculating the RQD Parameter in Engineering Geology Using a Designed Program in Excel Spreadsheet (Random Examples)
Rock Quality Designation (RQD) is an important measure in geotechnical engineering used to assess the quality and fracturing of rock masses. It is calculated as the percentage of rock core pieces longer than 10 cm (4 inches) relative to the total drilled length. To calculate RQD in Excel, start by inputting the lengths of all core pieces recovered from a drilling operation. Next, filter the data to identify only the core segments longer than 10 cm. Using Excel’s built-in functions, sum these qualified core lengths and divide the result by the total core length drilled. Multiply the final ratio by 100 to express the RQD as a percentage. Excel’s capabilities also allow for quick adjustments, visualization through charts, and easy recalculations, making it an efficient tool for conducting RQD analysis.
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Designed by Dr. Ahmad Fahmi
A plasticity chart is a useful tool in geotechnical engineering for classifying fine-grained soils based on their plasticity characteristics. The chart plots the liquid limit (LL) and plasticity index (PI) of a soil sample, which are determined through laboratory tests such as the Atterberg limits. To classify soil using this chart in an Excel spreadsheet, you first input the values of LL and PI from your tests. Excel can then be used to plot these data points on the plasticity chart, typically overlaying them on a pre-made grid that distinguishes between various soil types (e.g., clay, silt, or organic soil). By plotting the data points in Excel, you can quickly determine the soil classification based on its location on the chart. This method is efficient and allows for accurate soil categorization in line with established classification systems such as the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS).
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Designed by Dr. Ahmad Fahmi
Discover how to draw a soil particle distribution curve using Sieve and Hydrometer tests in an Excel spreadsheet
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In geotechnical engineering, understanding the distribution of soil particle sizes is crucial for assessing soil properties. To create a soil particle distribution curve, engineers commonly use Sieve and Hydrometer tests. The Sieve test separates coarse particles, while the Hydrometer test measures the finer particles suspended in a liquid. Once the data from both tests are collected, it can be easily input into an Excel spreadsheet. Using Excel, you can calculate cumulative percentages of particles retained or passed through various sieve sizes and plot them to generate a smooth soil particle distribution curve. This graphical representation helps visualize the gradation of the soil, offering insights into its characteristics, such as grain size distribution, which is essential for soil classification and design decisions.
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Designed by Dr. Ahmad Fahmi
Stress Distribution in Soil: Boussinesq’s Method (Point Load)
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To effectively learn the concept of “Stress Distribution in Soil” using Excel spreadsheets, you can create interactive models to visualize and calculate how stress disperses under loads. By inputting parameters such as soil properties, point or distributed loads, and depth, Excel can be used to apply formulas like Boussinesq’s method or Westergaard’s theory. The spreadsheet can then automatically compute stress values at different points and generate charts or stress bulbs, making the process more intuitive and dynamic. This hands-on approach helps in understanding the complex behavior of stress distribution through visualization and iterative calculations.
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Designed by Dr. Ahmad Fahmi
Mohr-Coulomb Failure Criterion
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The Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion is a fundamental concept in geotechnical engineering that describes the shear strength of soils based on cohesion and internal friction angle. It defines the conditions under which soil will fail under stress, combining normal and shear stresses on a failure plane. Using Excel spreadsheets, engineers can perform illustrative calculations by inputting parameters like cohesion, friction angle, and stress values
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Designed by Dr. Ahmad Fahmi