Advancing anchorage technology : Littlejohn, S Civ Engng N YV62, N7, July 1992, P61–64

Abstract

An overview of earth anchorage technology, with emphasis on current U.S. corrosion protection practice as compared to that used in Europe. Comments from U.S. practitioners involved in setting new guidelines regarding corrosion protection are included, as well as some from other industry participants. In addition, the article covers testing procedures, load transfer, and other aspects of anchorage design and construction. A 1986 study by the Federation Internationale Precontrainte is cited, in which 35 corrosion failures were found. These are described and a plea is made for readers to contribute performance data to the global data base. Monitoring anchorage structures in place would also greatly improve the body of data about their performance. Designers need to explain the reasons for testing, monitoring and corrosion protection to clients and contractors to enhance confidence in the method. There may be millions of earth anchorages in place that are performing well, but many owners and contractors are still skeptical about using this method for stabilization. Further case histories would help overcome this reluctance.