Lateral load estimation from visco-plastic mud-flow around cylindrical row of piles

In this paper, the influence of slow and creeping flow of mud/slurry is modelled as a visco-plastic fluid around cylindrical row of piles. The study is carried out theoretically using principles of applied fluid mechanics. The research initiates from actual requirement in using a series of piled columns as barrier(s) to stabilise such slopes considered to be at risk of land-slide due to reduced stability. It was thought that in the event of slope failure, the homogenised behaviour of the moving mass could be modelled as a fluid with appropriate inertial and mechanical properties. Parametric studies were carried out to estimate forces on a row of piles, considering visco-plastic fluids with different mechanical properties. The analysis focused on determining the variation of force per a unit distance with depth on piles, under the influences of a number of key parameters.