Axisymmetric transient modelling of a suction caisson in sand: A numerical study

摘要

This paper deals with the axisymmetric behaviour of a suction caisson installed in sand uponrnvertical monotonic and cyclic loading. A steel caisson is numerically modelled using the finite element codernLAGAMINE. The Prevost model reproduces the cyclic behaviour of the soil, i.e. it captures the accumulation ofrndeformation and pore water pressure within the soil. Coupled interface finite elements allow the modelling ofrnthe uplift behaviour of the caisson in both drained and partially drained conditions. Upon compression or tractionrnloading, the suction caisson presents different modes of resistance: friction along the shaft, bearing capacity underrnthe lid or the tip of the caisson, suction effect. The first part of this work describes the progressive mobilisation ofrnthese modes of resistance during monotonic simulations. The partially drained effect is particularly interestingrnsince it drastically increases the resistance to transient loading. It proceeds from the transient consolidationrnprocess induced by the caissons loading. The second part describes the evolution of the settlement of the suctionrncaisson upon different kind of cyclic loading signals.