Development of umbrella anchor approach in terms of the requirements of field application

Abstract

In this study, an innovative anchoring approach has been developed dealing with all relevant aspects in consideration of previous works. An ultimate pulling force calculation of anchor is presented from a geotechnical point of view. The proposed umbrella anchor focuses not only on the friction resistance capacity, but also on the axial capacity of the composite end structure and the friction capacity occurring around the wedge. Even though the theoretical background is proposed, in-situ application requires high-level mechanical design. Hence, the required parts have been carefully improved and are composed of anchor body, anchor cap, connection brackets, cutter vanes, open-close ring, support elements and grouting system. Besides, stretcher element made of aramid fabric, interior grouting system, guide tube and cable-locking apparatus are the unique parts of this design. The production and placement steps of real sized anchors are explained in detail. Experimental results of 52 pullout tests on the weak dry soils and 12 in-situ tests inside natural soil indicate that the proposed approach is conservative and its peak pullout value is directly limited by a maximum strength of anchored soil layer if other failure possibilities are eliminated. Umbrella anchor is an alternative to conventional anchor applications used in all types of soils. It not only provides time and workmanship benefits, but also a high level of economic gain and safe design.