
CGL is pleased to be supporting CIRIA (The Construction Industry Research and Information Association) Management of Advanced Numerical Modelling in Geotechnical Engineering guidance document planned for release in 2018. Richard Ball, Technical Director and Joseph Slattery, Principal Engineer are attending the steering committee as part of this support.
The finite element method was originally developed as an analytical tool and was largely used by academics. However, over recent years, the technique has increasingly become used for design purposes and its use is still evolving rapidly. It is now commonly used to model the ground’s interaction with embedded or adjacent assets such as tunnels, shafts and temporary works. It is used in this way because the complex interaction with existing structures cannot always be adequately modelled with older and simpler limit equilibrium techniques. With increasing reliance placed on this type of complex modelling for design purposes, effective organisational management of its use is required. Guidance is therefore required to help establish the principles of good practice and methodologies for managing the quality and safety of the output.
This steering committee will draw upon CGL’s experience developed using Plaxis 3D FE analysis in a range of projects that have covered the reuse of foundations, temporary works design, deep basement wall movements and design of foundations over and around existing sensitive structures.


Lambeth High Street, London– Finite Element analysis for re-use of existing piled foundations.


National College for Digital Skills, Ashley Road, London – Finite Element analysis for complex ground movement analysis