Development of a Joint Tightness Parameter for Sheet Pile Structures
Abstract
The amount of leakage through sheet pile interlock joints is of interest to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for a number of applications. For engineering purposes it would be useful to have a defensible method for quickly developing estimates of relative leakage among the various sheet pile options being considered. During the course of a USACE project involving sheet pile construction, a simple, geometry-derived method was developed for estimating the relative leak-tightness of two or more specific sheet pile interlock designs. Although the technique was created to help provide an objective basis for comparing several project-specific alternatives, it was recognized that the technique could have a wider utility in properly selected applications - especially those where a fast judgement is required and conducting physical leakage tests is not feasible. The key factors affecting leakage - interlock channel length and width - are accounted for in the method. The technique falls within the capabilities of any Army Engineer District, requiring only some simple measurements from interlock specimens and the application of some basic algebra. This report documents the logic, calculations, and assumptions underlying the method, and includes a step-by-step sample application.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA401544
Entities
People
- Charles P. Marsh
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center