An anchored retaining wall is a type of retaining wall that is reinforced by anchors or cables that are embedded into the soil or rock behind the wall. The anchors are tensioned to provide additional support and stability to the wall. Anchored retaining walls are commonly used for tall or heavily loaded walls.
The purpose of an anchored retaining wall is to provide structural support and stability to prevent soil or other materials from moving downhill. They are commonly used in bridge abutments, embankments, and steep slopes.
There are several types of anchored retaining walls:
- Gravity anchored retaining wall: This type of wall relies on its weight and the weight of the soil it is holding back to provide stability. The wall is reinforced with anchors or cables that are embedded into the soil behind the wall.
- Cantilever anchored retaining wall: This type of wall uses a cantilevered structure to resist the lateral pressure of the soil behind it. The wall is reinforced with anchors or cables that are embedded into the soil behind the wall.
- Tied-back anchored retaining wall: This type of wall uses a series of anchors or cables that are tensioned to provide additional support and stability to the wall. The anchors are embedded into the soil or rock behind the wall and are tied to a plate on the front of the wall.
The criteria for using an anchored retaining wall include:
- Wall height: Anchored retaining walls are suitable for walls up to about 100 feet high.
- Load bearing capacity: The wall must be able to withstand the weight of the soil it is holding back, as well as any additional loads placed on it.
- Soil type: Anchored retaining walls are suitable for cohesive soils and soils with low permeability. They may not be suitable for loose or unstable soils.
- Water table: If the water table is high, proper drainage must be provided to prevent water from accumulating behind the wall, which could increase the pressure on the wall.
Anchored retaining walls can be used in a variety of applications, including:
- Bridge abutments: Anchored retaining walls can be used to provide structural support for bridge abutments.
- Embankments: Anchored retaining walls can be used to stabilize slopes along roads and highways.
- Steep slopes: Anchored retaining walls can be used to prevent landslides and erosion along steep slopes.