Anchored excavation projects
Anchored excavations represent an engineering solution for stabilizing excavation walls and slopes where, due to depth or geological conditions, simple gravity-based solutions (e.g. gently sloped embankments) are insufficient or economically unjustifiable.
Anchors are structural elements that transfer loads from temporary or permanent retaining structures (such as sheet pile walls, shotcrete linings, or pile walls) into the load-bearing soil or rock mass behind the excavation, using pre-stressed tensile force.
Scope of application
Anchored excavations are used in the following cases:
Construction of underground garages, basement levels, and subway stations
Infrastructure projects: tunnels, utility shafts, underpasses
Temporary protection of deep excavations in urban areas
Slope stabilization and landslide remediation
Construction of retaining and support structures along roads, railways, and riverbanks
Types of anchors
Anchors vary based on their purpose, durability, and installation method. Main categories include:
a) Temporary anchors
Used during the construction phase (e.g., excavation), typically with a service life up to 2 years
Common in urban projects where retaining walls are removed or integrated into the final structure
b) Permanent anchors
Designed for long-term stabilization (20–100 years)
Applied in permanent retaining walls, slope stabilization, and landslide remediation
Require enhanced corrosion protection (double corrosion protection, HDPE sheathing, cement grout)
c) Passive and active anchors
Active anchors: prestressed to immediately take on loads
Passive anchors: mobilized only upon structural movement (e.g., settlement or slip)
d) Geotechnical and geomechanical classification
Based on load-bearing capacity, force transfer mechanism (friction, adhesion), material (steel, composite), and installation depth
Advantages of anchored excavations
Enable vertical or near-vertical excavation walls, saving space in urban environments
Faster construction compared to massive retaining structures
Modular and adaptable to varying geological conditions
Applicable in various soil types (except highly saturated or poorly cohesive sediments without additional measures)
Limitations and challenges
High initial cost due to specialized equipment, grouting, and quality control
Susceptibility to corrosion, especially in permanent anchors – requires robust corrosion protection
Geometric constraints – not suitable where anchor zones are obstructed (e.g., adjacent buildings or underground utilities)
Requires precise planning and geotechnical assessment, including monitoring of displacements and anchor forces
Anchored excavation projects are a modern, efficient, and technically advanced solution for the safe execution of deep excavations and retaining structures. Despite their complexity in design and construction, they offer significant advantages in urban settings and challenging ground conditions. Success depends on close collaboration between geotechnical designers, contractors, and supervisors, as well as the use of verified systems and materials with adequate protection.
Our services in the field of anchored excavtions:
Our works
Stages of work
- Monitoring and reporting
- Monitoring of displacements, stresses, and deformations during construction
- Ongoing and final monitoring of system stability and performance
- Preparation of a comprehensive report including measurements and conclusions
- Examples of work:
Our advantages
since 1946
we work in the field of geology and geotechnics
Own equipment
for field and laboratory research
Full range of services
from geological research to geotechnical design
Standart ISO 9001
quality management system
Reviews
Jetmir Rakovec
Feedback from a construction company: “Working with your company left us with only positive impressions! The geological investigations for our project were carried out professionally and in the shortest possible time. All recommendations were clear and precise, which allowed us to avoid unnecessary costs during the construction phase. Special thanks for the detailed reports and your attentive approach to our requirements!”
Matej Kovačič
We required a geological report for the design of a residential house. The Geoinženiring team responded promptly, carried out the drilling and investigations smoothly, and without complications. Communication with the geologist was clear, professional, and timely. We are very satisfied with their approach.
Astrid Cvikl
I commissioned a geological survey for a house construction site and was very satisfied! The experts explained all the results in detail and provided clear recommendations regarding foundation selection. I was impressed by their high level of professionalism and friendly attitude. I highly recommend this company to anyone seeking reliable geological services!