ABSTRACT
A finite element based methodology has been developed for the analysis of soil-culvert interaction. An elastic plastic work hardening cap soil model and a large deformation formulation are included in the computer program. The possibility of yielding of the culvert is accounted for by using a Von Mises yield criterion. The compaction and construction processes are also simulated. Predictions with this program agreed with the results of field, laboratory, and full scale tests. Prime locations for yielding of the culvert are at the spring line and shoulders; shear failure develops in the soil in the neighborhood of the spring line and above the upper half of the culvert. Yielding of the culvert, soil shear failure, and large buckling deformations(individually or combined) were identified as the causes of failure of soil-culvert systems. Minimum soil cover of 1 to 2m above the crown is required to protect flexible buried culverts from failure under the influence of heavy live loads.
