1. Pipe-Line Anchor Block Optimization
Zakariya Saleh Al-Helal

2. Anchor Block
Anchor block! Why?
restraints for pressurized pipes

3. Objective Function To optimize an anchor block for a given force How ?
Minimize the volume A

4. Design Stage
Normal forces analysis
Frictional forces
Moments

5. Problem Description

6. Problem Description

7. Problem Description

8. Design Constrains Factors of Safety Soil bearing capacity
Against sliding
≥ 1.25
Against overturning ≥1.5
Soil bearing capacity
≤ 3 ksf
≥ 0

9. Excel Model
Features:
Easy to Handle
Flexible
Minimum Cost
Time Saving

10. Excel Model
Optimization

11. Model Importance Material Saving: For a pipe force: Fp=1502 lb;
Typical Solution Obtained by Saudi Aramco Engineer:
V=30*16*16=7,680 ft3
Excel Model: minimized to V=4,288 ft3
% Saving: =45%

12. Results Concluded
The dimensions for a given force can be obtained using:
Model (Solver)
Tables
Charts
Equations

13. Results Concluded
The dimensions are exponentially related to the pipe’s force magnitude
Approximately Min 40% saving in material

14. THANKS