• Geotechnical engineers are considering, or newly using, finite element modelling alongside traditional limit equilibrium methods
• Engineers involved in design studies or peer review of slope stability, retaining structures, or foundation design
• Practitioners working on projects with punching shear risk — strong-over-weak ground profiles, footings, or retaining systems
• Professionals seeking CPD hours accredited by Engineering New Zealand (ENZ) in geotechnical practice
  

• When FEM adds meaningful value to geotechnical projects
• Using strength reduction analysis to validate engineering judgement
• Visualising deformation, resistance mobilisation, and failure mechanisms
• Avoiding over-precision and unnecessary modelling complexity
• Practical lessons on model setup, sanity checks, and interpretation

A residential development in Hawke’s Bay required an assessment of punching failure beneath concrete slabs supported by a geogrid-reinforced gravel raft. While hand calculations confirmed the overall check, the GTS NX model revealed the depth and extent of deformation beneath the slab, making the failure mechanism visible and strengthening the supporting design evidence.

Supporting visual: Deformed mesh and vertical displacement contours beneath the loaded slab.

Following a debris-flow event in the Bay of Plenty, an embedded steel-pole barrier was designed to protect a dwelling. As part of an independent design review, a GTS NX model was used to evaluate how resistance mobilised within volcanic ash soils, where displacement concentrated, and where yielding developed below ground—helping turn engineering judgement into clear, reviewable evidence.

Supporting visual: GTS NX displacement and yield contours compared with the original WALLAP results.