Abstract: The theoretical and basic assumptions in the application of equivalent beam method in the deep excavation supporting design are introduced in this paper in detail. A conversion formula is proposed based on the correlations in the active and passive earth pressures and this formula is then introduced in simplifying the embedment depth of cantilever walls. This new approach is also verified a practical deep excavation project. In the application, the embedment depth of the sheet piles can be adjusted based on the monotonic properties of the fitting function, as well as the soil properties and state. The effect of the zero earth pressure points from various methods on the supporting structures are also analyzed.

Key words: Deep Excavation Support, Embedment Depth, Conversion Formula