DEM modeling of dynamic anchors with particles of different shapes and sizes

Abstract

Capturing the accurate behavior of anchors has been a challenge in geotechnical engineering because of uncontrolled parameters in laboratory settings. The use of numerical modeling methods such as the finite element method, discrete element method (DEM), and coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian method can help address this issue. Among these methods, the DEM is notable for its ability to model the interaction of the anchor and soil particles. However, the limitations of DEM, including the shapes and sizes of the particles, can affect the results. Researchers have proposed different sizes and shapes for geotechnical issues, but, a gap remains about the interaction of particles tailored for dynamic anchors that has not been thoroughly explored. The current study investigated soil particles of different shapes and sizes to assess the pullout capacity of dynamic anchors that can be used in offshore engineering. The results indicate that the use of a mixture of particles with realistic shapes can increase the accuracy of the assessment of the anchor behavior. Different scenarios for particle mixing have been proposed and the numerical results showed good agreement with the experimental test results. A novel numerical method also has been introduced with which to simulate sand pluviation techniques.