Settlement Calculator (Consolidation)
Calculate the consolidation settlement of a soil layer by comparing the initial and final heights after loading, supported by verified methodology and references.
Layer Parameters
How to Use This Calculator
This tool is for geotechnical professionals who need a quick, transparent estimate of how much a soil layer compresses under a new structural or surcharge load. Provide the undisturbed initial layer height and the measured height after excess pore-water pressure dissipates.
The interface highlights both values, calculates the net settlement (S), and surfaces a percent change to make comparisons easier. Use the summary table to capture the input history for reporting and download the same rows as a CSV.
Methodology
The calculator relies on the simple consolidation settlement formula S = H₀ - Hf, where H₀ is the initial height and Hf is the final height once equilibrium is reached. The percent change is a ratio of settlement to the initial height and helps quantify deformation severity.
- Initial height refers to the pre-loading thickness of the compressible layer.
- Final height captures the thickness once consolidation ends.
- Settlement (S) simply subtracts the final height from the initial height.
- Percent change is S divided by H₀, expressed as a percent.
Data Source and Formula
Values follow the consolidation settlement document published by Geotec Software (Geotec Software - Consolidation Settlement).
Worked Example
Suppose H₀ = 5.00 m and Hf = 4.80 m. The settlement is S = 5.00 - 4.80 = 0.20 m. Percent change is 4.0%. Enter those inputs and click Calculate to see the same values reflected in the results card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Consolidation settlement is the gradual decrease in soil volume as excess porewater pressure dissipates, typically caused by the weight of a new structure.
Settlement is the algebraic difference between the initial and final layer heights, following S = H₀ - Hf. The calculator updates the summary and download as soon as you confirm the inputs.