Micropiles and Other Deep Foundation Solutions

Micropiles and other deep foundation solutions are employed to transfer the load of a structure to a stronger subsoil layer. Before installing deep foundations, geotechnical engineers need to study the site location and soil sensitivity, and determine the budget and amount of time allotted for the project. Once the requirements are established, it's time to weigh and choose from the different solutions. 

Micropiles

Made of steel with diameters from 60 to 200 mm, micropiles can be installed on almost any subsurface condition and on sites with restricted access. They're often used for underpinning. Hollow bar micropiles are a variant that are suited to collapsible soils.

Caissons

Also called drilled shafts, drilled piers, or bored piles, caissons can easily carry heavy loads because they allow larger diameter piles. They also enable construction in dense or hard strata. A variation, mini-caissons, can be employed in dense urban locations.

Helical Piles

Also known as screw piles, helical piles and anchors have been used in construction for over 200 years. The piles consist of central shaft with helix-shaped flights or plates and a bracket that can be attached to a structure. The system can be used for new construction or retrofit applications. Their installation doesn't generate spoils, doesn't require a curing period before load testing, and can be done even in bad weather.

Continuous Flight Augur Piles

CFA piles or augercast piles are often used for sensitive sites because it's quick, requires no casing, and creates minimal disturbance. A hollow auger is drilled to the required depth and a cement grout mix is immediately pumped down to create the pile.

When two or more options are both feasible, choosing the most suitable method can be difficult, unless tempered with considerable practical experience. An established geotechnical services firm can install the deep foundation on time and on budget, and possesses the tools and experience needed to select and apply the most appropriate solution.

To learn more about deep foundation, visit www.moretrench.com.