Modified vertical bearing capacity for circular foundations in sand using reduced friction angle

Bucket foundations, which are large cylindrical structures that are open at the base and closed at the top, recently have attracted much attention in offshore projects. To demonstrate the relationship between the vertical bearing capacity of a bucket foundation relative to the corresponding capacity of the circular plate, several loading tests on small-scale bucket and surface foundations were performed at Aalborg University. In the current research, the modified vertical bearing capacity of circular surface footings was investigated with the reduced friction angle. A linear relationship with reasonable accuracy was found between the relative density and the reduced friction angle.

► Suction buckets are tubular steel foundations that are installed by applying suction inside the bucket.
► In the research modified vertical bearing capacity of circular surface footings was investigated with reduced friction angle.
► A linear relationship with reasonable accuracy was found between the relative density and the reduced friction angle.