ABSTRACT
Holding capacity of suction anchor was studied by centrifuge model tests, in view of their application to the mooring system for floating wind power generation in offshore Japan. Capped stainless steel pipes placed in loose sandy deposits were pulled at about mid depth of the anchor embedment in nearly horizontal direction (initial angle of elevation of 12.5 to 23.7 degrees) under 20G centrifugal conditions. Measured holding capacities were compared with capacities estimated from a limit equilibrium model considering Reese type failure mechanism, as well as from a practical method proposed by Deng and Carter, both of which were associated with friction angles evaluated from centrifugal miniature cone penetration tests carried out prior to the anchor placement. Capacities predicated by Deng and Carter method underestimated measured ones.
