Finite Element Analysis of the Holding Capacity of Shallow Suction Caisson Anchors

Abstract

The foundations of offshore structures have been actively studied to provide design guides for oil platforms. Recently, techniques developed for the oil industry have found new applications in the design of the foundations for offshore wind turbines. The analytical solutions for the holding capacity of suction anchors have been developed based on limit equilibrium and limit analysis theorems and have often been compared with the results of sophisticated approaches such as finite element analysis. However, some solutions show discrepancies with finite element analysis results under specific conditions, (e.g., certain values of the ratio of length to diameter). The aim of this study was to provide a guide for estimating the location of the optimal loading point and the holding capacity of shallow suction caisson anchors, under an inclined load for various profiles of undrained shear strength. A set of graphs and formulae proposed may be used for preliminary determination of the anchor capacity and verification of other solutions. The effect of soil disturbance is also discussed.