DESCRIPTION:
Mechanically stabilized earth walls (MSEWs) are commonly used on roadway projects and are typically cost effective and aesthetically pleasing. The basic concept behind MSEWs is to combine soil, reinforcing materials made of steel or polymers, and appropriate
facing to produce a composite system with engineering properties that are ideal for most roadway applications. Reinforced soil slopes (RSS) utilize the same types of reinforcement for the construction of steep embankments. Both MSEWs and RSS structures can
provide substantial savings in construction time and costs when compared with other types of earth retaining systems.
The goal of the course is to educate agencies about state-of-the-practice design tools. This includes comprehensive instruction on the design of MSEWs using load resistance factor design (LRFD). The course also presents construction practices to promote
implementation of mechanically stabilized earth technology in cost effective earth retention structures. This course would most benefit persons who are involved in the design and construction of earth retention structures for surface transportation projects.
OUTCOMES:
Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:
- Recognize potential applications for MSEWs and RSS structures in transportation facilities
- Prepare conceptual and basic (i.e., for simple geometry) designs, and be able to check contractor-submitted designs for walls and slopes
- Examine and select appropriate material properties and parameters used in design
- Calculate the cost of conceptual MSEWs and RSS structures and determine if construction is a cost-effective option
- Select appropriate specification/contracting method(s) and prepare detailed specifications for materials and methods of construction
- Define and communicate major components of construction inspection of MSEWs and RSS structures to confirm compliance with design
TARGET AUDIENCE:
The primary audience for this course is agency and consultant bridge/structures, geotechnical, and roadway design engineers; engineering geologists; and consultant review specialists. In addition, management, specification and contracting specialists, and
construction engineers interested in design and contracting aspects of MSEWs and RSS structures are encouraged to attend. Attendees should have a basic knowledge of soil mechanics and structural engineering. (Note that NHI offers a 1-day course, FHWA-NHI-132043
Construction of MSEW and RSS.
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The National Highway Institute (NHI) has been approved as an Authorized Provider
by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET),
1760 Old Meadow Road, Suite 500, McLean, VA 22102. In obtaining this approval, NHI
has demonstrated that it complies with the ANSI/IACET Standards which are widely
recognized as standards of good practice internationally. As a result of their Authorized
Provider membership status, NHI is authorized to offer IACET CEUs for its programs
that qualify under the ANSI/IACET Standards.
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