Note:

This calculator helps determine the Vertical Pressure (σv) at a given depth based on overburden density and gravitational acceleration.

The calculation considers three main parameters:

• Overburden Density (ρ): The density of the material above, typically ranging from 15 to 19.2 ppg. It increases slightly with depth due to compaction.
• Acceleration due to Gravity (g): A constant value of 32.2 ft/s².
• Depth (D): The vertical depth at which stress is being calculated, measured along the z-axis.

Understanding Vertical Pressure:

• Shallow Depths: Upper sediments have high porosity, leading to lower density and stress.
• Greater Depths: Density increases as porosity reduces due to compaction and diagenesis, leading to higher stress.
• Principal Stress: Vertical stress (σv) is a principal stress and is mainly controlled by gravity at significant depths.

Applications in QEHS:

• Occupational Safety: Evaluates stress on underground structures like tunnels and basements to ensure worker safety.
• Environmental Impact: Assesses soil compaction and subsidence risks in construction and excavation projects.
• Health & Safety in Construction: Helps determine structural stability for foundations, retaining walls, and embankments.
• Heavy Equipment Operations: Estimates ground stability when placing cranes, drilling rigs, or other heavy machinery.

Enter these values and click the Calculate Vertical Pressure button to determine the stress at a specified depth.