How to model the foundation of the structure with Plaxis 3d (v2013) software?

I have a simulation performed by plaxis 2013 , which collapses and it does not converge properly. I would appreciate it if someone could give me an idea of the problem.
This is a model of the wind turbine foundation where I’ve used the Mohr-Coloumb constitutive model for modeling the soil around the foundation, and the plate element technique (and their extrude) for the modeling of the foundation.
The modeling has three steps:
1- The first step: calculating the initial stresses
2- The second step: defining and modeling the foundation of the structure
3- The third step: applying the load
During the analysis of the model, at the step of applying load on the foundation, the soil around the foundation uplifts and foundation deformation is positive while it seems the problem does not relate to the load value. I have also tried to add a negative interface between the bottom of foundation and the soil which did not impact the result.
I am looking forward to hearing any idea on the probable problem on my modeling procedure and/or boundary conditions,
Thanks in advance

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  • Dear Hamidreza,

    The question is whether it is important to you and the project to simulate the interaction between the different pieces. If the pieces are fully connected then an interface is not needed. If the pieces can move relative to each other then an interface can be used.

    Typically for soil to structure interaction, the interface is required so that it is possible to have a relative movement of the soil. Without an interface, the nodes of the soil will be fully connected to the nodes of the structure.

    In both cases, this depends on the engineering and design decisions.