Recent centrifuge modelling of offshore geotechnical problems at IWHR

Abstract

Centrifuge modelling has been proven to be an efficient and reliable approach for examining offshore geotechnical problems. This study reports the two series of centrifuge tests to understand the behaviour of spudcan penetration in a “soft-stiff-soft clay” stratigraphy and the behaviour of gravity anchor subjected to a lateral loading. A hydraulic system has been adopted to apply the large compressive and tensional load on the spudcan and gravity anchor, respectively. Load cells were installed on the base of the spudcan to directly measure the stress acting on the spudcan base. A 2D laser scanner was adopted to monitor the horizontal, vertical movement and tilting of the gravity anchor. The influence of the relative soil stiffness on the spudcan pentration behaviour and the soil deformation and interaction with the gravity anchor are discussed based on the centrifuge test results.