Influence of Cutoff Wall Layout and Embedment Depth Ratio on Seepage Patterns in Cofferdams
YU Guangbin
ZUO Jiangrui
Abstract：In addressing issues such as concentrated seepage exits and excessive exit gradients in traditional symmetric cutoff wall designs for seepage control in thick overburden cofferdams,an asymmetric layout and embedment depth optimization method was proposed.Through finite element numerical simulations and seepage characteristic analyses,the regulatory mechanisms of cutoff wall position offset and embedment depth ratio on seepage paths and exit gradients were revealed.The results show that upstream-offset placement of the cutoff wall can significantly enhance permeability stability with only a slight increase in seepage flow.The embedment depth ratio exhibits a significant nonlinear effect on seepage characteristics.In the synergistic effects of cutoff wall embedment depth and position offset,upstream offset optimizes horizontal seepage paths to reduce gradients,while increased embedment enhances vertical interception to reduce flow.Together,these two factors achieve dual objectives of economic efficiency and safety.
Keywords：seepage characteristicscutoff wall designembedment depth ratioposition offsetnumerical simulation
Publication Date：2025-08-20
Online Publishing Date：2025-09-04(First online date of this platform, not the publication date of the document)
Pages：6( 95-100 )