Field Scale Tests for Determination of Pullout Capacity of Suction Pile Anchors under Varying Loading Conditions

Abstract

Full scale tests have been conducted on suction pile anchors for testing the pullout behaviour under various loading conditions for mooring applications. Suction pile anchors with varying diameters and constant length to diameter ratios have been used in the tests. The tests have been carried out in the field within breakwaters where natural environmental factors like wind, lower waves and tidal influence exists. Comparison has been made between static pullout and dynamic loading on the suction pile. It is found that the pullout capacity of the suction pile anchors is influenced by pile geometry, angle of pullout and nature of pull (static / dynamic loading).