This thirty-fifth manual in the GEO5 engineering series focuses on the application of the “Regions Without Reduction” function in Finite Element Method (FEM) stability analysis. The manual explains how to use this feature to prevent the reduction of shear strength parameters in specific regions during a stability analysis, addressing issues related to localized plastic zones that do not represent the global slip surface. Available for download, this manual is essential for geotechnical engineers who need to ensure accurate and reliable stability assessments in complex soil-structure interactions.
Learning Objective:
The goal of this manual is to teach users how to apply the “Regions Without Reduction” function in the GEO5 FEM program during slope stability analysis. Users will learn how to identify areas where the reduction of shear strength parameters should be suppressed, define these regions within the model, and analyze the impact on the overall stability of the structure, ensuring a more accurate determination of the global factor of safety.
Assignment Description:
In this assignment, users are tasked with performing a slope stability analysis where localized plastic zones are causing numerical instability. The analysis involves using the “Regions Without Reduction” function to prevent shear strength reduction in specific elements and evaluating how this approach influences the stability analysis results. The manual provides detailed instructions for setting up the problem, defining the regions, and interpreting the results to achieve a reliable factor of safety.
Outcome:
Upon completing this assignment, users will be able to effectively use the “Regions Without Reduction” function in GEO5 FEM software to manage plastic strain distribution and enhance the reliability of their stability analyses. They will gain practical experience in identifying problematic areas in the model and applying this function to avoid unrealistic plastic zones, leading to more accurate and stable analysis outcomes.
Conclusions:
The manual concludes that the “Regions Without Reduction” function is a valuable tool for addressing issues related to localized plastic strains that do not contribute to global instability. By carefully defining these regions, users can improve the convergence of their analyses and obtain a more accurate assessment of the slope’s stability. The manual emphasizes the importance of understanding when and where to apply this function to avoid influencing the global slip surface and ensuring the integrity of the analysis.
📥 Download LINK
