Understanding Ground Anchors
Ground anchors can be formed from solid or hollow threaded bars, or from multiple high-tensile wire strands connected in groups to form strand anchors.
Each ground anchor comprises a fixed length and a free length. The fixed length, or anchor section, is bonded into the ground using cement grout, providing the primary restraint. The free length passes through low-strength overburden or the active zone of the ground being restrained.
The restraint developed within the fixed length is transferred through the free length to the surface structure via the anchor head assembly.
We offer a range of ground anchor systems to suit different ground conditions, loading requirements and project applications, including:
- Bar anchors – suited to hard or stiff cohesive ground and commonly used for retaining structures and slope stabilisation (LC 111–4,418 kN)
- Hollow bar (self-drilling) anchors – suited to softer cohesive or non-cohesive ground and useful where unstable ground conditions make pre-drilling difficult (LC 210–9,601 kN)
- Strand anchors – multi-strand systems suited to higher loads and weaker ground, often used for heavily loaded retaining structures and deep excavations (LC 300–3,600 kN)
- Removable anchors – suitable for temporary works or locations where the tendon needs to be partially removed once it is no longer required
- Duck-bill anchors – percussively driven anchor systems suited to applications where rapid installation is required and access is restricted