Properties of ground anchors
The most important tips in the ground anchor modeling procedure in PLAXIS
Part I:
The stiffness of a ground anchor (i.e. the resistance against elongation) is formed by the axial stiffness of the anchor bar, EA. This applies to the anchor free length as well as the grouted part of the anchor, since upon loading of the anchor, tensile cracks will occur in the grout body, and hence, the grout body itself will not
contribute to the axial stiffness.
The axial stiffness, EA, can be specified directly as input parameter in a material data set for anchors, as used for the node-to-node anchor. In 2D, the anchor spacing in out-of-plane direction, ls required. Internally, will divide the axial stiffness by the spacing in order to calculate the axial stiffness per unit of width in a plane strain model. Optionally, a maximum anchor tensile force Fmax,tens force Fmax,comp should be set to 0). It is also possible to specify the Material type as Elastoplastic with residual strength, which enables the modelling of anchor breakage
(Fresidual,tens = 0).