| Abstract: | Suction foundations have been deployed in the last three decades in a growing number of offshore developments, for bottom-fixed and floating structures, in shallow and deep waters, many of them successfully. Suction foundations, traditionally used as anchors and jacket foundations in the oil and gas industry, are now also used in the offshore renewable (wind) industry, e.g. for monopods, tripods, and jackets. When technically feasible, suction foundations are often cheaper than pile foundations. Additionally, their installation is relatively noise-free and, by applying overpressure, they can be removed during decommissioning. This paper focuses on the more complex design issues and some pitfalls related to suction foundation design. Additionally design practices and recommendations for suction caisson design, including installation and extraction feasibility, foundation resistance, settlements and response in sand, clay and layered soil profiles, will be presented for basic understanding. |
