Vertical Pull-out Capacity -
Abstract
A numerical investigation into the vertical pull out capacity of suction embedded plate anchors (SEPLA) was performed for this investigation. The aim of this investigation was to examine the soil flow mechanisms and quantify the effect of suction in the overall capacity of these anchors. The AFENA computer program which uses finite element analysis (FEA) was used to carry out the numerical investigation. Strip and circular shaped anchors that were horizontally embedded into normally consolidated soil were considered. The soil shear strength increased with depth at a rate of 1 kPa/m (figure 1). It is envisaged that this investigation combined with future research will increase knowledge of anchor behaviour, leading to more structurally efficient and cost effective designs.
Western Australia is currently undergoing a significant increase in its oil and gas production. With Sinclair Knight Merz’s (SKM) culture of expansion and technical excellence a knowledge base in this field may prove to be a valuable commodity in the future.