Application	PLAXIS 2D
Version	PLAXIS 2D
Date created	2 June 2025
Date modified	2 June 2025
Original author	Richard WITASSE - Principal Application Engineer
Keywords	PLAXIS 2D, Soldier pile, Deep excavation, Prestressed anchors, Surcharge load, Soil–structure interaction, HSsmall model

 

This exercise presents a comprehensive workflow for modelling and analysing an anchored soldier pile wall using PLAXIS 2D. Soldier pile walls supported by ground anchors are commonly used in deep excavations, especially in urban environments where ground movements must be carefully controlled to protect nearby structures. The tutorial focuses on simulating the construction process and structural response of such a system under the influence of a significant surcharge load, representative of multi-storey buildings adjacent to the excavation.

The model includes detailed representation of the soil stratigraphy, with appropriate material constitutive models (such as HSsmall) and careful definition of interfaces to capture soil–structure interaction. Key structural components—such as plate elements for the soldier piles, volume elements for the lagging, and embedded beam elements for the grouted anchors—are incorporated to realistically reflect the geometry and stiffness of the wall system.

Through staged construction, the simulation replicates the sequential excavation process, anchor installation, and prestressing. The results include analysis of horizontal displacements, ground surface settlement, and internal forces in both the soldier piles and lagging. Particular attention is given to the influence of surcharge loading and how it affects the overall stability and deformation of the retaining structure.

This tutorial is designed to guide users through advanced geotechnical modelling practices in PLAXIS, with emphasis on excavation support systems, anchor pre-tensioning, and structural performance assessment of deep retaining walls.