3D Large Deformation FE Analysis of Spudcan Foundations on Layered Clays Using CEL Approach

Abstract

Spudcan foundations are used widely to provide support at the seabed for independent legged jack-up rigs. In order to explore the continuous load-penetration profile and mobilised soil failure patterns, simulating deep penetration of spudcans during preloading a jack-up rig, large deformation finite element (LDFE) analyses are essential. This paper investigates continuous penetration of circular spudcan foundations in single and two-layer clay deposits. An LDFE approach termed Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) approach in commercial package Abaqus was used. For implementing the CEL approach, a 3D model was created, in which only one fourth of the whole model was considered accounting for the geometric symmetry. Parametric LDFE analyses were performed encompassing the range of practical interest. The results from 3D CEL approach were compared with the previously published results from axisymmetric LDFE analyses using the RITSS (remeshing and interpolation technique with small strain) approach. The good agreement obtained shows that the CEL approach is capable in analysing complicated large deformation problems.Keywordsbearing capacityclaysfailure mechanisms3D large deformation finite element analysisspudcan foundationsCEL