Helical Pile Definition - A helical pile is a deep foundation element used to support or resists any load or application in either compression (down), tension (up) or lateral (side). The helical pier is comprised of three elements. The pile is installed applying a torsion force to the pier via a hydraulic motor. The torque applied during installation when applied to a empirical conversion factor typically indicates ultimate capacity.
Starter Section - comprising of at least one bearing plate to transfer the loads to the bearing stratum from the surface.
Extensions - Comprising of a steel central shaft transmitting the torque to the bearing stratum.
Termination - Comprising of interface between the structure and the helical pier.
Helical Pier Benefits
- Quickly installed
- Low installation cost
- Installs with little or no vibration
- Installs in areas with limited access
- Little or no disturbance to the site
- Soil removal from site unnecessary
- Installed torque correlates to capacity
- Easily load tested to verify capacity
- Can be loaded immediately after installation
- All weather installation
New Construction Piers
Advantages of Helical Piles for New Construction include:
- Vibration free installation
- No spoils
- Very rapid mobilizations
- Quick rate of installation
- Predictable load capacities
- Field verified quality assurance with torque testing
- Low overhead requirements
Marina Seawall using Helical Tiebacks
New Construction Helical Piers
Additional Case Studies
Oil Spill Case Study #1
Oil Spill Case Study #2
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