Abstract: The numerical analytical model of the ultimate capacity of a single circular hole is established on the geophysical and geotechnical investigation results for a large refinery project. The progressive failure mode is studied by the stepped incremental loadings with the consideration of the interactions of foundation structures, overburden soils and the thickness of the karst rock at the dome. The incremental shear strain plots under the correspondent incremental loadings are also provided and the progressive failure process of the circular hole can be explicitly demonstrated.

Key words: Single Circular Hole, Incremental Shear Strain, Ultimate Capacity