Reducing Ground Vibrations During the Piling Process
Using a traditional impact driver has been compared to the hammering of a huge nail into a piece of wood, it is not surprising therefore that pile driving in this way could generate environmental concern, especially when operating in otherwise quiet residential areas. It is for this reason that selecting the most appropriate type of piling hammer is essential.
Benefits of using Piletec’s Free-Suspended Vibrators (FSVs)
Following a risk assessment, pile driving in close proximity to domestic dwellings, roads or buried services may attract restrictions on noise and vibration; restrictions that could be easily avoided by using a Piletec High frequency resonance free FSV.
As well as mitigating groundwork costs and reducing levels of ground vibration, the correct choice of FSV can also significantly decrease driving and extraction time while facilitating better and safer working conditions.
Which FSV? (Soil and hammer types)
Having decided that using an FSV is the preferred option, the next step is deciding which model of FSV would best suit the project. Depending on ground conditions, a crawler crane or a mobile/telescopic crane can be used to provide a powerful combination of vibratory and vertical downward force. Piletec’s experienced sales desk are able to provide advice on the best piling vibrator model for the job at hand.
The specific model of FSV will ultimately be chosen by considering a number of factors, including:
- Pile size and thickness
- Type of crane being used
- Proposed pile driven depth (m)
- Ground conditions
Ground conditions can be classified as Very Loose, Loose, Medium Dense, Dense Granular or Soft Cohesive and Very Dense Granular or Firm Cohesive. In general terms, vibratory piling hammers are most suited to granular soil conditions such as gravel, sand and other particulate soils.
Vibration Monitors and Alarms
Where there is a particular requirement to actively monitor vibration levels on site, battery powered Vibration Monitors are a highly effective tool for accurately reporting vibration levels in real time. The results can be saved and downloaded to PC for later scrutiny and this can be particularly useful if the need arises to mitigate potential or retrospective damage claims.
Audible and Visual Alarms
Piletec’s 2-Stage Audible and Visual alarm is a twin warning system that can be retro-fitted to all Piletec Vibration Monitors. The operator has the option of disabling the siren and two trigger settings are possible. For example, the first alarm could act as a pre-warning to indicate that vibrations are nearing the upper limit.
If the audible alarm fails to alert personnel, the strobe lights will simultaneously flash for twenty seconds. All Vibration monitors are weatherproof, enabling the units to be mounted in a variety of locations; usually in line of sight on the perimeter fencing. Battery life is maximised as the monitors only use power when triggered.
Why Choose Piletec?
Our team is able to supply the most suitable FSV to complete your project based on all the above criteria. We will assess your needs and get your project up and running quickly with high performance, reliable piling equipment sourced from reputable UK and European manufacturers. Our fleet of well-maintained vehicles is supported by our nationwide team of fully trained service engineers who can provide technical support onsite.