Three-dimensional modeling of anchoring systems in concrete

Numerical simulation is a valuable tool for getting inside information on the mechanism occurring in fastening technology. The additional knowledge and understanding of the anchoring behavior, like e.g. the load transfer and the damaging state in the base material, is the basis for innovative product development. Reliable simulation results require a sophisticated material modeling, especially for concrete material which is widely encountered as base material for anchoring systems. Concrete shows completely different behavior underlying different loading conditions, and it often determines the load carrying capacity of the structure and the corresponding failure mechanism. The basic knowledge of the working principles of anchors is investigated first and than utilized for a case study of an undercut anchor. Here the behavior of the anchor in cracked concrete is investigated and compared with the application in undamaged base material.