The static equilibrium of drag anchors in sand

This paper examines the static equilibrium of drag anchors during embedment in sand. A limit equilibrium method is developed to allow the anchor holding capacity to be predicted given a specific anchor geometry and position relative to the free surface of the sand. The method is based on the earlier approach of Le Lievre and Tabatabaee, but is extended to include a three-dimensional soil wedge, which is consistent with experimental observation. The solution procedure is also extended to be more applicable for anchors at a preultimate stage by incorporating a force behind the anchor fluke. To calibrate the method, a series of centrifuge model anchor tests has been performed in silica and calcareous sands. The static capacity of the anchor during embedment is compared with the static limit equilibrium solution and good agreement is demonstrated. Key words: drag anchor, statics, sand, limit equilibrium, ultimate holding capacity.