AXIS Explores
Onshore foundations
Overview
Foundations are designed for a longer design life than other WTG components and include a large safety factor.
Onshore foundations are generally either spread foundations (either ‘embedded ring’ or ‘anchor cage’) or piled.
Understanding the properties of the soil and rock beneath is critical to correct foundation design, which requires expensive surveys pre-construction.
Types of failure
Foundation failure
Foundation failure can be caused by:
- Movement of the steel foundation elements. Over time this can allow water ingress, causing corrosion of the steel components.
- Poor design e.g. incorrect ratios of steel elements to volume of concrete
- Poor construction e.g. if the concrete was not poured to the correct depth, or not allowed enough time to cure this weakens the foundation
Total failure of the foundation is catastrophic and results in a complete loss of the WTG.
However, regular monitoring can identify movement of the foundation and allow remedial work to be done before it becomes critical.
This material is for general information and education purposes. The advice and recommendations in this document may help to reduce the risk of property loss and business interruption. Implementing these recommendations does not guarantee the avoidance of loss or that all reasonable preventative measures have been taken. By providing this advice and recommendations, AXIS does not relieve the owner or others of their duties and obligations with respect to assessing and implementing loss prevention measures. AXIS disclaims any liability with respect to loss prevention or loss mitigation programs.
