How Cased Micropiles Can Improve Foundation Stability

Cased micropiles are a specialized type of foundation system designed to provide a reliable and cost-effective solution for deep foundations. Unlike standard micropiles, which consist of a steel bar grouted into a small-diameter hole, cased solutions utilize a high-strength steel casing.

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Construction Process

The construction process begins with drilling a small-diameter hole into the ground. Once the desired depth is reached, a steel casing of similar small diameter is inserted and left in place. Steel reinforcement is then inserted into the casing and grouted, creating a robust and stable foundation element.

What Sets Micropiles Apart?

  1. Increased Load Capacity: They have greater compression, tension, and shear capacities compared to the standard micropile. The presence of a high-strength steel casing provides additional strength and stability, allowing for the transfer of heavier loads through weaker soils to stronger strata. This increased load capacity makes them an economical solution for projects with demanding structural requirements.
  2. Versatility in Different Soil Conditions: They can be drilled through a wide range of soil types and conditions, from loose soils to solid rock. The steel casing eliminates the risk of cave-ins that can occur when drilling uncased holes through loose soil. This versatility allows for their use in various geotechnical settings, making them suitable for a wide range of projects.
  3. Smaller Drilling Equipment and Reduced Spoil Volume: They can be installed using smaller drilling equipment.. This not only reduces the overall project cost but also allows for easier access to restricted areas. Additionally, the installation generates smaller volumes of spoil, minimizing the need for excavation and disposal. This can be particularly advantageous in urban environments or sites with limited space.
  4. Minimal Vibration and Disturbance: Installed without being driven, resulting in minimal vibration during the construction process. This makes them ideal for projects where vibration needs to be minimized, such as slope stabilization or work near sensitive structures like historic buildings. The reduced vibration helps to minimize disturbance to the surrounding environment and ensures the safety and stability of nearby structures.
  5. Suitable for Restricted Access: Well-suited for projects with limited access, such as foundation strengthening for existing buildings. The small diameter allows for installation in tight spaces and areas with restricted access. This makes them a practical choice for retrofitting or upgrading existing structures without causing major disruption to the surrounding environment.
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Versatile Applications

Micropiles find their niche in diverse applications. Whether you need support for wind turbines, towers, transmission lines, or residential and commercial buildings, our skilled engineers can tailor micropile solutions to your specific needs. We specialize in:

Commonly used to provide reliable foundation support in both new construction and retrofitting projects. They are capable of transferring heavy loads from structures to the underlying soil or rock strata. Can be utilized to support a variety of structures, including buildings, bridges, towers, and industrial facilities.

Highly effective in stabilizing slopes and preventing soil erosion. By installing them at various angles and depths, they reinforce the slopes and enhance their stability. They play a crucial role in preventing landslides and maintaining the integrity of embankments, hillsides, and cut slopes.

Often employed for underpinning existing structures that require additional support or foundation reinforcement. Their installation can be carried out in limited access areas or in close proximity to existing structures without causing significant disruption. They provide a reliable solution for strengthening foundations and improving the load-bearing capacity of buildings.

A cost-effective and efficient solution for constructing stable retaining walls. They can be installed vertically or at an angle to support the weight of retained soil and resist lateral forces. Offer stability and durability, making them an ideal choice for the construction of retaining walls.

Commonly used in bridge and infrastructure projects, especially in challenging soil conditions. They provide reliable foundation support and can be installed in areas with limited access or where deep foundations are required. They ensure the safe transfer of heavy loads from bridges, viaducts, and other infrastructure elements to the underlying soil or rock strata.

Play a crucial role in environmental remediation projects. They provide stabilization and support for contaminated soil or groundwater treatment systems. Can be installed to create barriers or containment structures, preventing the spread of contaminants and ensuring the safety of the surrounding environment.

History and Evolution of Cased Micropiles

Micropiling technology has evolved significantly since its inception in the 1950s. Introduced by Dr. Fernando Lizzi and Fondedile, micropiles were initially used for underpinning historic buildings. Over time, micropiling spread to the United Kingdom in 1962 and gained popularity in Germany. In 1973, it made its way to North America, but adoption was initially slow due to different market conditions.

In the mid-1980s, micropiling started to gain traction in North America, particularly among geotechnical contractors. The advantages of micropiles, such as load transfer capabilities and versatility in different soil conditions, became recognized. Advancements in drilling techniques, equipment, and materials have further improved the efficiency and effectiveness of micropiling.

Today, ongoing research and development efforts focus on enhancing the performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness of micropiling technology. Innovations in materials and drilling techniques continue to push the boundaries of load-bearing capacity and versatility that they can achieve.

Benefits of Cased Micropiles for Soil Stabilization

  1. Enhanced Load Transfer: Cased micropiles excel in enhancing load transfer capabilities. The combination of casing, grout, and reinforcement works together to effectively transmit loads through weak soils to stronger underlying strata. The steel casing provides additional strength and stability, while the grout and reinforcement contribute to the load-bearing capacity. This ensures the efficient transfer of axial, tensile, and shear loads, making cased micropiles a reliable choice for projects with demanding structural requirements.
  2. Mechanisms for Transferring Different Loads: Specifically designed to transfer various types of loads, including axial, tensile, and shear loads. The steel casing, filled with grout and reinforcement, acts as a robust column element with significant axial capacity. It effectively resists compressive forces and ensures overall stability. Additionally, the grout-filled steel casing offers superior shear capacity compared to other micropiles, making it highly suitable for resisting lateral forces and shear loads.
  3. Increased Depth Capabilities: Have the capability to extend to depths of up to 250 feet, depending on factors such as soil stiffness, casing diameter, wall thickness, and steel strength. This increased depth capability allows for the installation of cased micropiles in deeper soil layers or when encountering challenging soil conditions. It provides flexibility in designing foundations for projects that require substantial support at greater depths. 
Casing Drill for Soil Nail Wall Installation

Why Choose Access Limited?

At Access Limited, we take pride in our ability to overcome challenges. Our micropile solutions are designed for restricted access environments, ensuring minimal disruption. Whether you are dealing with low headroom conditions, existing structure underpinning, or remote locations, our specialized drilling equipment and skilled crews guarantee efficient and precise installations.

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Select your state or province from the options provided, and let our experts assess your project requirements. Access Limited is your dedicated partner, delivering innovative micropile solutions tailored to your unique challenges. Trust us to fortify your projects with reliable foundations, regardless of the obstacles in your path.

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