Coupled Finite Element Analysis of Strip Anchors in Sand

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Publication Title
Coupled Finite Element Analysis of Strip Anchors in Sand

Abstract
Plate anchors offer an efficient and cost-effective solution for mooring floating wind turbines. However, predicting the capacity of plate anchors in sandy seabed presents significant challenges, primarily due to uncertainties in soil drainage conditions and the evolution of excess pore pressure near the anchors. This paper investigates the effect of partial drainage on the capacity of strip anchors in sand using fully coupled Finite Element (FE) analyses. Two-dimensional coupled FE models were established in Abaqus/Standard, employing the critical state-based NorSand constitutive model implemented in a user material subroutine (UMAT) to capture sand behaviour accurately. Using calibrated model parameters, the FE model was validated against reported centrifuge anchor test data, confirming its reliability. A parametric study was then conducted across two embedment ratios and two relative densities, subjected to three loading rates (ranging from fully drained to partially drained conditions).The results highlight variations in failure mechanisms across different drainage conditions, with a focus on excess pore pressure evolution around anchors. This work establishes a robust framework for accurately predicting plate anchor capacity in sandy seabed under varying drainage conditions, offering valuable insights for offshore anchoring applications.
Authors
Zhenyu Liu; Shiao Huey Chow; Mason Ghafghazi; Yinghui Tian

Published In

5th International Symposium on Frontiers in Offshore Geotechnics (ISFOG2025)

Theme

12 - Gravity base foundations, Drag and Plate Anchors

DOI
https://doi.org/10.53243/ISFOG2025-217

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