The development of a small - scale geotechnical teaching centrifuge

Geotechnical engineering is a core discipline within civil engineering that supports the infrastructure development which underpins modern society. The simulation of realistic geotechnical design at undergraduate level is often restricted to routine calculation-based methods reinforced by simple element laboratory tests which fail to provide a holistic learning experience. Using the latest research techniques, laboratory teaching can now offer the opportunity for students to test small-scale physical models which are representative of larger real world full-scale engineering problems. To provide greater connectivity between geotechnical theory and design, a small-scale 1.1m diameter teaching centrifuge has been developed. This enables observation of the behaviour of small-scale models tested under increased gravity to be directly related to fullscale field conditions. Accompanying educational resources have also been developed. An additional core objective was to promote widening participation amongst other higher education institutions and this has been achieved by ensuring that the centrifuge is highly cost-effective, built from standard off-the-shelf parts and features supporting documentation in the form of a “how-to” guide which details the centrifuge design, engineering drawings and the manufacture and installation process for technology transfer.