Bolts Overview

Bolts in RS3 are one-dimensional support elements which can be used to model a variety of bolt types commonly used as support elements for excavations, slopes, retaining walls and other geotechnical structures.

Adding Bolts

Bolts are added to a model using either the Add Single Bolt option or the Add Bolt Pattern option. Bolt patterns can also be created with the Sequence Designer dialog.

Editing Bolts

Options for editing bolt patterns include Edit or Delete Bolts.

Bolt Properties

Bolt properties are defined with the Define Bolts option. The following bolt models are available in RS3:

• End Anchored
• Fully Bonded
• Plain Strand Cable
• Split Set / Swellex
• Tieback

Bolt properties can be assigned to bolts when they are initially added to the model or with the Assign Properties dialog.

Bolt Staging

The staging sequence of bolt installation can be specified when bolts are initially added. If bolts are not initially installed at the desired stage, the staging can be changed at any later time using the Assign options. Bolt staging can also be assigned with the Sequence Designer dialog.

Bolt Theory

For information about the numerical implementation of bolt support in RS3 see the Bolt Formulation document in the RS3 Theory section.