Micropiles, also known as a mini-pile, are a small diameter deep foundation element used to transfer structural loads from the ground surface to deeper, more competent soils or rock layers.
Grouted Helical Micropiles offers the benefits of a pre-engineered helical micropile design for applications requiring higher load capacities, ranging from 20,000 lbs. to 400,000 lbs. per pile. This type of micropile utilizes a unique flowable grout during installation, allowing it to be screwed into the soil. As a result, these helical micropiles establish a deep foundation that combines a central shaft, which bears the load through friction, with helical plates that provide end-bearing support in stable underlying strata.
Benefits of a grouted helical micropile:
Resistance to buckling in weak surface soils: The helical design of the micropile provides increased resistance to buckling, making it suitable for installation in weak or unstable surface soils. This helps ensure the stability and integrity of the foundation.
Higher load capacity: The grouted helical micropile system is designed to handle higher load capacities compared to other foundation systems. This allows for efficient and reliable support of heavy structural loads.
Stiffer pile: The design of the micropile results in a stiffer pile, meaning it deflects less under a given load. This increased stiffness enhances the structural performance of the foundation and reduces the potential for settlement or excessive movement.
Additional corrosion protection in aggressive soils: A grouted helical micropile system incorporates corrosion protection measures, such as specialized coatings or materials, to withstand aggressive soil conditions. This ensures the longevity and durability of the micropile in environments where corrosion is a concern.
The grouted helical micropile design involves the construction of a grout column around the shaft of a standard helical mini-pile system. The process begins by inserting a helical pile into the soil through the application of torque to the shaft. The helical shape of the bearing plates generates a powerful pulling force that drives the anchor further into the ground.
Once the lead section with the helical plates has penetrated the soil, a lead displacement plate and extension are attached to the shaft. By resuming torque on the assembled shaft, the helical plates advance and the displacement plate moves downward, causing the soil to be displaced outward and creating a cylindrical void around the shaft. A flowable grout, sourced from a reservoir at the surface, is then immediately injected into this void, completely surrounding and encapsulating the shaft.
This process continues by adding additional extensions and displacement plates until the helical bearing plates reach a layer of stable load-bearing soil. The grouted helical micropile displaces the soil around the shaft, eliminating the need to remove excavated materials from the site.
Tim is the President of Intech Anchoring and has 25 years of experience in the Civil Engineering and Geostructural Industry. Tim has developed extensive industry knowledge by working to support the needs of specialty contractors at each and every business level. Tim’s diverse industry background has given him exposure to a wide variety civil construction projects, ranging from the simplest residential applications to the most complex commercial and industrial projects. Coupled with a highly skilled and educated team, Tim focuses on providing the highest quality products and solutions to Intech Anchoring’s customers in order to consistently exceed expectations.
