Three steps to correct earth anchor Misalignment

Step 1 - Assess the Anchor's Structural Tension Strength:

Evaluate the strength of your earth anchor against the load it is expected to bear. What is the gap between the maximum applied load and the anchor's structural tension strength? Anchors with double or triple the amount of structural tension strength in comparison to the load it bears can manage increased misalignment with ease.

Step 2: Confirm if the top helix plate has a vertical depth of at least 5 feet below grade level. Check if you can access installation logs for verification. A deep anchor lead section of 5 feet or more will prevent bending stress from affecting the top helix, ensuring maximum anchor capacity. This means that a secure installation can be achieved with proper depth and alignment.

Instead, it will allow the opportunity for slack conductors since the earth anchor shaft will translate sideways through the soil to align with the load and may bend the shaft. If the anchor lead is shallow, replace the anchor.

Step 3: Verify the Anchor's In-Situ Capacity at the Present, Misaligned Angle by Conducting a Proof Test

By conducting a proof test on the earth anchor at its maximum proof load in a static setting, you can ensure its long-term reliability. In many instances, it is possible to pull-test anchors with up to 25 degrees of misalignment, without experiencing any failures.