Modelling sheet pile retaining walls

In finite element analysis of retaining wall problems, the wall is often modelled with two-dimensional elements. When analysing walls constructed from thin steel sections such as sheet pile walls the stiffness and thickness of the wall elements are determined by equating the bending stiffness and axial stiffness of the prototype and the finite element model.

The element thickness is not arbitrary and can influence the results obtained. One-dimensional beam elements provide an alternate method for sheet pile retaining wall analysis. The results of analyses using two-dimensional elements to model the wall are compared to analyses in which one-dimensional beam elements are used.

Beam elements are more accurate for modelling thin section walls such as sheet pile walls. Two-dimensional elements are recommended for modelling thick concrete walls.

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