Item: Uncut Column Stability Tests For Hard Slab Snow Conditions
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Title: Uncut Column Stability Tests For Hard Slab Snow Conditions
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop Grenoble – Chamonix Mont-Blanc - October 07-11, 2013
Authors:
- Wesley R. Farnsworth [ Arctic Geology Department, University Centre in Svalbard, Norway ] [ Department of Geosciences, University of Oslo, Norway ]
- Markus Eckerstorfer [ Earth Observations, Northern Research Institute (NORUT), Forskningsparken, Pb. 6434, 9294 Tromsø, Norway ]
Date: 2013-10-07
Abstract: This study aims to better understand a slabs influence on the mechanics of artificial avalanches. It seems that stability tests do not represent stability in hard slab conditions well. We believe this is caused by the complete isolation of the stability column unnaturally “fixing the race†between weak layer propagation and the fracture down through the thickness of the slab. This study is based on two small data sets comparing normal Propagation Saw Test (PST) to a variation where the up-slope end of the column is not cut, thus an un-isolated beam or an uncut column (u-PST). Initial results suggest that cut lengths for the u-PST are greater than the PST. Although results are significant, the temporary lack of a robust dataset inhibits concrete conclusions. Still it seems the data sets provide important insight regarding fracture mechanics and suggest the importance of incorporating slab properties into stability test, especially when dealing with hard slab avalanche conditions.
Object ID: ISSW13_paper_O2-01.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Unknown
Keywords: slab properties, propagation saw test, hard slab, uncut columns
Page Number(s): 001-006
Subjects: propagation saw test slab hardness slab properties
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