SEDL / STP / STP392-EB / STP41283S

Measurement of Embankment Stresses on a Hundred-Foot-High Retaining Wall

Kruse, George H.
Associate Engineer, Department of Water Resources, State of California, Sacramento, Calif.

Pages: 12    Published: Jan 1965

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Abstract

Eight Carlson soil-stress meters measured stresses at the face of a 100 ft-high vertical concrete-core block at the Oroville Dam. The calibration and installation of these gages is discussed briefly. Measurements taken during construction of the 1964 embankment indicate gage readings are reproducible and consistent. Six of the gages were located behind a 20-ft wide, 70-ft thick zone of moderately compacted clay soil. Two were below this area. A disproportionate reduction of stress at the wall behind the “compressible” clay zone illustrates its effectiveness in reducing lateral stresses.