Helical Piling
Understanding the right foundation for your construction project can be tricky. Helical piles, a type of deep foundation made of steel shafts and plates, are often an ideal option.
This article will break down what helical piles are, their installation process, benefits, and how they compare to other foundations. Stay tuned for some profound insights!
What are Helical Piles?
Helical piles are foundation systems that consist of steel shafts with helical screw-like blades, also known as helixes. These piles are installed by rotating them into the ground, creating a strong and stable foundation for various structures.
Definition and purpose
Helical piles serve as solid foundations for various types of structures. They are designed to strengthen existing bases, establish new ones, or stabilize weakening foundations. These prefabricated deep foundation systems strategically transfer the load from a structure sitting on unstable or poor soil to more stable ground or bedrock.
Innovative helical piling systems like QuadraPile further specialize this technique, showcasing the diverse utility and effectiveness of helix piles in constructing strong and reliable foundations.
How they are installed
Installing helical piles involves a straightforward procedure, likened to twisting a corkscrew into a bottle of wine. Below are the steps involved:
- A pile mat construction is set up to provide a solid platform for the piling equipment.
- The helical screw piles, specifically designed for this purpose, are selected.
- The pile gets positioned correctly above the installation point.
- Using hydraulic machinery with rotational capabilities, commonly known as grip van, the helix piles start descending into the ground.
- The process involves rotation rather than hammering or impact force, making it quieter and less disruptive.
- The crew continues twisting the screw into the earth until it reaches the desired depth.
- Once installed, these screw piles foundation systems are ready to support structures immediately.
Benefits of Helical Piles
Helical piles offer versatility and adaptability in various construction projects. Their cost-effectiveness is another advantage that makes them a popular choice. The environmental friendliness and sustainability of helical piles are also notable benefits.
Versatility and adaptability
Helical piles shine due to their high versatility and adaptability in construction applications. They are designed to be installed at different angles, catering for specific design needs and dealing with challenging soil conditions effectively.
From small residential projects to large-scale commercial constructions, helical piles can provide solid foundation support while preventing extensive site excavation or disturbance.
Regardless of the terrain or ground condition – whether it’s loose sand, hard clay, or rocky soil – helical piles deliver efficiency without a hitch. Their adaptable nature also means you can utilise them for temporary installations like event structures or permanent buildings alike, displaying their full scope of application potentials.
Cost-effectiveness
Helical piles are known for their cost-effectiveness when compared to other foundation options. One of the reasons behind this is the lower mobilization costs associated with helical piles.
These piles can be installed efficiently, which increases productivity and saves time and money. Additionally, helical piles can be installed and work through adverse weather conditions, further enhancing their cost-effectiveness.
Another factor contributing to their affordability is that they require less maintenance compared to other foundation methods, making them more economical in the long run. Overall, helical piling offers a cost-effective solution for building sturdy foundations without compromising on quality or durability.
Environmental friendliness and sustainability
Helical piles are not only versatile and cost-effective, but they also boast impressive environmental friendliness and sustainability. These foundation systems require fewer materials and less energy to produce compared to other types of foundations.
Additionally, the steel used in helical piles is often made from recycled materials, minimizing waste and reducing their overall impact on the environment. With a smaller carbon footprint compared to concrete foundations, helical piles offer an eco-friendly solution for piling enthusiasts looking to prioritize sustainability without compromising performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, helical piling offers a versatile and cost-effective solution for building foundations. With their adaptability to various soil conditions and environmentally friendly design, helical piles are a sustainable choice for construction projects.
Whether it’s stabilizing structures or supporting concrete boardwalks, helical piles provide reliable support while minimizing impact on the environment.
