(一)Introduction
Underground continuous walls are large-scale engineering structures which are commonly used for retaining dry and wet soil, façade protection, and water and soil conservation in many modern construction projects. They have applications in a variety of projects, such as highways, railways, dams, and bridges. This article will provide a comprehensive insight into the use of underground continuous walls, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
(二)Types of underground continuous walls
Underground continuous walls come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be customized for different projects. The most common types of underground continuous walls are steel sheet piles, steel tube piles, and pre-cast concrete piles. Steel sheet piles are lightweight and typically have a Z or straight shape, making them ideal for use in shallow structures. Steel tube piles are stronger than sheet piles and have a curved shape, which makes them better suited for deeper structures. Pre-cast concrete piles are the strongest type of underground continuous walls and have a rectangular shape with reinforced ribs, making them suitable for heavy loads in both shallow and deep structures.
(三)Design considerations
Designing underground continuous walls requires careful consideration of several factors. These include type of soil, soil bearing capacity, water level, inclination of the wall, and the use of drainage systems. Type of soil will help determine the type of wall to be used. Soil bearing capacity will determine how much weight the wall can carry. Water level must be considered in order to ensure the wall remains watertight. The inclination of the wall should be checked to ensure that the wall is built on an even plane, and drainage systems should be included to ensure the wall does not become saturated with water.
(四)Advantages and Disadvantages
Underground continuous walls have several advantages over standard retaining walls. They can be installed quickly and efficiently, as there is no need for excavation and pouring of concrete. They are also more cost effective, as they require less material and labor. In addition, they are more durable than standard retaining walls, as they are often made of high-strength steel or concrete. However, there are some disadvantages to using underground continuous walls; these include damage from corrosion, as well as increased risk of water leakage or dam failure due to improper installation.
(五)Conclusion
In conclusion, underground continuous walls are an effective and efficient way to provide support and stability to a variety of construction projects. They are more cost effective and durable than standard retaining walls and can be installed quickly and easily. However, they do come with some risks, such as corrosion and water leakage, which should be carefully considered before installation.