Pile Installation Methods

Many structures that surround us, such as commercial properties, bridges and industrial units, will probably have at some point benefitted from the use of piles and sheet piling. Piling can be used as a temporary installation for groundworks, or as a permanent retaining structure typically found in river embankments and retaining walls.

There are many types of sheet piles manufactured from a variety of materials such as timber and concrete. Due to advancements in materials, piles are also now available in plastic (PVC), these are particularly useful for lightweight applications or where corrosion is a concern.  The most common material for sheet piles however is steel, due to its high strength and ability to withstand large forces.

Why do we need piling?

Piles are often used to support and strengthen foundations; they function as both a lateral load support and as a type of supporting wall or barrier, able to both reinforce the soil and provide stability to the structure being erected: some common scenarios where sheet piles are used include:

• Weak or unstable soil: Piles are driven deep to transfer the load to more stable ground and securely support a building or structure.
• High load conditions: Such as high-rise buildings, bridges or commercial properties, to strengthen foundations and provide additional support.
• Flood plains, rivers and coastal zones: To create stability and to prevent movement in waterlogged or soft soils.
• Groundworks shoring: As a temporary installation to support the sides of deep excavations, commonly used for basements, road developments, cofferdams and trenches.

Things to consider when Pile driving

Piles can be installed using a number of different methods and approaches depending on the prevailing conditions and environment. For example, the required depth of excavation and whether the project is within an urban, domestic or rural setting, will all inform how the piles should be installed.

Aspects to consider for successful pile driving include:

• Geological conditions
• Topographical features
• Use of the correct type of sheet pile
• An appropriate choice of driving hammer

The choice of driving hammer will depend on all the above elements: Side Grip Vibratory Hammers or Excavator Mounted Vibrators (EMVs) are often used where there is a need to mitigate potentially hazardous vibrations. Prevailing features such as residential estates, nearby roads or utilities can attract local concerns about excessive noise and potentially damaging vibrations if, for example, an Impact Hammer is required for dense, compact or rocky soils. A Vibration Monitor is often used in sensitive areas to highlight any vibrations or shocks that could exceed the allowable limits.

The decision therefore on which type of piling installation method to use will essentially depend on the sheet pile being used, the surrounding populace and the topographical and geological conditions.