Anchor Load Testing
Sep 18, 2021| Anchor Load Testing
As compared to other structural members, there is a unique aspect of anchors, is that every anchor is load tested to verify its load capacity and load-deformation behavior before being put into service. The acceptance or rejection of ground anchors is determined based on the results of:
1- Performance tests
Performance tests involve incremental loading and unloading of a tendon anchor. The performance test is used to verify anchor capacity, establish load-deformation behavior, identify causes of anchor movement, and to verify that the actual unbonded length is equal to or greater than that assumed in the anchor design.
2- Proof tests
The proof test involves a single cycle load and a load hold at the test load. The magnitude of the applied load is measured using the jack pressure gauge.
3- Extended creep tests
An extended creep test is a long duration test (e.g., approximately 8 hours) that is used to evaluate creep deformations of anchors.
The acceptance criteria are based on allowable creep and elastic movements of the anchor during load testing. The results of these anchor tests are compared to specified acceptance criteria to evaluate whether the ground anchor can be put into service.