Failure of Smooth Grouted Post-Tension Anchors in Dams

An experimental research investigation was conducted in two phases (Phase 1 and Phase 2), which involved the construction of full scale grouted post-tension trunnion anchor rods that were subjected to a simulated rod fracture. The overarching objective of this study was to determine by what phenomenon smooth grouted post-tension anchor rods re-anchor themselves and over what length does this re-anchoring occur. Supplementing the two phased study was an investigation into the estimating the remaining service life of in-situ post-tensioned grouted anchors using flaw tolerance limit plots and a conceptual method to determine tension in grouted post-tension anchor rods by perturbing the anchor plate.