Pseudo Static analysis in PLAXIS 3D

Question

My first phase is Gravity loading, do I need to create a second Plastic phase and apply the acceleration in this phase and then do the Safety calculation? or can I do it from the initial phase?

Stefanos Papavasileiou · Answer

Dear Juan, 
 The initial phase is intended to simulate the in-situ stresses before humans come and change the current situation. This is useful to have a separate phase as especially with Gravity loading equilibrium needs to be reached. With K0-procedure you may need a following-up so-called nil step that no changes are applied to the geometry to ensure equilibrium. 
 I would indeed add the pseudostatic analysis in one of the upcoming phases.