Analytical solution for ultimate embedment depth and potential holding capacity of plate anchors

Abstract

This paper proposes an analytical approach to evaluate the ultimate embedment depth and holding capacity that plate anchors can potentially achieve. Based on a plasticity model for anchor-soil interaction and compatible chain solution, detailed derivations are presented that allow the main dimensionless groups of input parameters to be identified. For typical cases where the weight of the anchor is negligible relative to its holding capacity, explicit expressions are provided in non-dimensional form for ultimate embedment and anchor capacity. A thorough parametric sensitivity study highlights the major factors affecting these quantities. Two practical examples are considered that demonstrate the proposed analytical approach for different types of anchors, in one case revealing significant scope for improved design of plate anchors in order to optimise performance.

Analytical Study on Limiting Value of Shape Factor of Vertically Loaded Anchors in Saturated Soft Clay

“…In general, the size and the shape of drag anchors influence the loading capacity and the capacity to penetrate into the soil, respectively [2]. It is very important to fully understand the loading capacity of drag anchors; therefore, some scholars have conducted the research on the loading capacity, such as O'Neill et al [3], Merifield et al [4], Merifield and Sloan [5], Song et al [6], Aubeny and Chi [7], Tian et al [8], Han et al [9], Cheng et al [10], Peccin da Silva et al [11], and so on. The results obtained from the research on loading capacity of drag anchors show that, at the same embedded depth, the bigger the fluke of the drag anchor is, the larger the maximum loadbearing capacity; when the drag anchors have the same size of fluke, the deeper the drag anchor embeds into the soil, the larger the maximum load-bearing capacity is.…”

Influence of parameters on the ultimate penetration depth of a double-plate vertically loaded anchor in soft clay

“…In addition, VLAs can simultaneously withstand horizontal and vertical loads compared with the conventional drag embedment anchors which only withstand the horizontal load (Yang et al, 2010). When VLAs are penetrated into the specified position in the seabed, then the anchor line can be reconfigured to be normal to the fluke, which induces a higher pullout capacity than the conventional drag embedment anchors (Tian et al, 2015). To enhance the pullout capacity of VLAs, the area of the anchor plate of VLAs should be increased.…”