Uncertainty in the consolidation process via the prefabricated vertical dra
in (PVD), and the effects of uncertainty on the design of PVDs, are investi
gated in this paper. Analysis results suggest that the coefficient of horiz
ontal (radial) consolidation, c(h), is the predominant random variable and
that its probability distribution type has a considerable influence on the
probability of achieving the target degree of consolidation by a given time
. A probability-based design method is given by taking into account the unc
ertainty in c(h) in the design. The corresponding probabilistic design fact
ors are calibrated, and a simple-to-use design procedure and charts are pro
vided.