A helical pier is an innovative foundation that is gaining popularity in oil and gas. The reason for this is simple: the construction industry in this sector needs projects to finish faster while staying as economical as possible. For these reasons, more engineers and general contractors are opting for this nearly two-hundred year old solution for pre-construction support as well as repairing existing structures.
Why are piers used?
Helical piers have the advantage of being installed in difficult situations with minimal site impact. They don’t require excavation and can be used in close proximity to underground services. They are also highly adjustable in terms of both depth and capacity, based on the soil conditions at your project location. The diameter of the helix plates that are welded onto a central pin will vary, depending on the location and soil conditions. For example, rocky soils will require helix plates with a smaller diameter, while soft or sandy soils can accommodate larger helix plates.
These helix plates, along with factors like skin friction, help to provide the compression and tension load resistance that helical piers are known for. Their unique shape helps them turn smoothly into the soil without disturbing it. Helical piers also have the benefit of being more mobile than concrete piers, so they can be moved if necessary.
Another advantage of helical piers is that they can be built on before concrete footers are poured, which allows you to accelerate your project significantly. This is especially true for sloping sites where waiting for the footers to reach their full strength can be time-consuming and costly.
No Comments