Numerical modelling and analysis
We use numerical modelling and analysis to calculate the stability of foundations or structures, offshore wind turbines in extreme weather conditions, how a coastal area may be affected by a tsunami, or how a rock slide may be initiated and propagated over vast areas.
Analysis of soil pressure, deformation, and ground behaviour, when loaded with the weight and stresses of buildings and structures. Calculation of soil pressure, deformation, and ground behaviour for foundation engineering design solutions and support structures. Analyses of the interaction between soil and construction are also crucial for optimum design.
Specialist expertise
NGI has long experience and expertise in
- combining good command of selected simulation tools and an understanding of geomechanical processes and material behaviour
- in the development of numerical models for the mechanical and dynamical behaviour of geomaterials
We may use the finite element method (FEM) to simulate the behaviour of foundations for large structures. We have also developed customized analysis programs for the dynamic behaviour of foundations and the capacity of suction anchors and skirt foundations in clay and sand.
Analytical tools are used for simulating various geomechanical processes, including:
- static and dynamic interaction between structures and the ground
- displacement and load capacity of foundations
- modelling of braced construction pits
- modelling of oil and gas reservoirs, soil slides and avalanches, tsunamis, and one- and two-phase flows in porous media
Research and development
NGI's research efforts relating to numerical modeling include:
- contributions to the PLAXIS expert panel
- fracture development in friction materials
- analytical tools for large deformations in cooperation with the University of Stuttgart
- geotechnical analysis pack GeoSuite, in cooperation with large parts of the Norwegian and Swedish engineering profession
- materials model for the cyclic behavior of clay
- analysis model for progressive failure in sensitive clay
Relevant analytical software
- Plaxis software package
- ABAQUS, CFX
- Itasca programpakke (FLAC, UDEC, PFC
- Geoslope programpakke
- Phase2
- Comsol multiphysics modeling
- BIFURC
