Investigation of the installation process of drag-in plate anchors from LDFE modelling

The installation of drag-in plate anchors is investigated using advanced large-deformation finite-element (LDFE) analysis. A new modelling technique that can realise the continuously evolving loading angle on the anchor line is described. The entire anchor trajectory is simulated until the anchor reaches an ultimate state after dragging for a very large distance, typically in the range of 40–70 times the anchor width. An installation in simple uniform and non-sensitive soil is first presented with agreement against well-established plasticity analysis and an analytical solution offering verification of the techniques developed. The effects of anchor padeye position, seabed soil conditions, anchor line properties and the anchor–soil interface on the installation response are then discussed. The findings highlight that plasticity and analytical approaches are not necessarily conservative when the yield surface derived from deep embedded anchors is applied in shallow conditions. The LDFE results also demonstrate the importance of accounting for soil remoulding around both the anchor and anchor installation line. The results of this study provide insights for offshore engineers to consider and incorporate when estimating a drag anchor installation trajectory and holding capacity.