What type of soil is less effective for most anchor applications?

The choice of rocky soil or hardpan as less effective for most anchor applications is rooted in the characteristics of these soil types. Anchor systems rely on the soil’s ability to provide resistance against forces applied to the anchor, such as tension or lateral loads.

Rocky soil or hardpan often consists of dense, compacted materials that are difficult for anchors to penetrate and grip. This compactness can limit the anchor's embedment depth, thus reducing the effective holding capacity. In contrast, other soil types like gravel, compacted clay, or sandy soils tend to have better engagement with the anchor systems, allowing for improved anchorage performance and increased resistance to forces.

Gravel, for instance, offers good drainage and relatively easy installation for anchors, making it an ideal medium for many anchoring applications. Similarly, compacted clay can provide significant resistance due to its cohesive properties, while sandy soil, though less stable under certain conditions, can still provide a reasonable grip for anchors when designed suitably.

Understanding how different soil types interact with anchoring systems is critical in designing effective and reliable outside plant installations.