Finite Element Analyses on Bearing Performance of a Novel Precast Foundation for Cable Termination Support

This study designs a novel modular prefabricated concrete foundation for cable termination supports in the power industry. This foundation is composed of prefabricated components including concrete segmented foundations, strut and connector via bolted connections, featuring convenient construction and a reduction of nearly 40% in concrete consumption. The finite element model was established using FEA software (Version ABAQUS 2020), and an economical and stable mesh size was selected through mesh convergence analysis. The settlement and bearing capacity of the foundation under axial compression were analyzed. Results show that this prefabricated foundation remains in the elastic stage under service load, with uniform settlement and excellent integrity. The stress of reinforcement bars and bolts is much lower than the material yield strength, and the concrete has ignorable damage. In addition, the safety margin is sufficient, and the force transfer path is clear. The research results can improve the prefabricated system for power facilities and provide technical support for the green and efficient construction of cable termination support foundations.