Earth Pressure Coefficient Calculator

This calculator can be used to determine the earth pressure coefficient (K) using Rankine's theory. It is useful for geotechnical engineers and civil engineers in designing retaining walls and other earth-supported structures.

Input Parameters

Calculation Results

Calculation Formula

K = cos(φ + δ) / cos(φ - δ) * cos(α)

Where:
K = Earth Pressure Coefficient
φ = Angle of Internal Friction (degrees)
δ = Angle of Wall Dip (degrees)
α = Angle of Wall Slope (degrees)

Earth Pressure Coefficient Calculator Usage Guide

Learn how to use the Earth Pressure Coefficient Calculator and its working principles

How to Use the Calculator

  1. Enter the soil unit weight in kN/m³.
  2. Enter the angle of internal friction (φ) in degrees.
  3. Enter the angle of wall dip (δ) in degrees. This is the angle at which the wall is inclined from the vertical.
  4. Click the "Calculate" button to compute the earth pressure coefficient (K).
  5. The result will be displayed in the Earth Pressure Coefficient (K) field.

Working Principle

The earth pressure coefficient (K) is a factor used in geotechnical engineering to determine the lateral earth pressure exerted on retaining structures. Rankine's theory is a common method used to calculate K, which assumes a soil mass behind the retaining wall is in a state of plastic equilibrium. The formula used is:

K = cos(φ + δ) / cos(φ - δ) * cos(α)

Where φ is the angle of internal friction, δ is the angle of wall dip, and α is the angle of wall slope. For a vertical wall, α is typically 0 degrees.