Analysis of Predicted Capacity versus Load Test Results of Ground Anchors in Multi-Geology Installation

Over the past few years, we have gathered results of 150 sacrificial ground anchor tests with about 25% of them tested to pullout failure. This paper reviews the predicted capacities based on the available geotechnical data and load test results from the actual sites. This comparison develops a correlation between bond stress in different soil types to the N₆₀ value, which can be used to confirm bond stress estimation. Additional conclusions were drawn based on differences in installation methods, for example solid stem auger installation versus air rotary installation. The ultimate capacities of these anchors were compared to see how the capacities differed or if they were similar. Finally, we compared the variability in load test results performed on different anchors at the same site. We compared how deflection readings at the same load can vary as well as how the ultimate capacity of anchors can vary at a single site.