Piling is the insertion of reinforced concrete piles deep into the ground using different approaches. These piles support heavy loads and irregular structures, ensuring their stability. Piling is specifically used in areas where the soil isn’t stable enough to support buildings.
From driving to CFA piling, various types of piling are available. You can choose any of them based on soil conditions, construction sites, building regulations, and other similar factors. To make informed decisions, you should opt for site investigation. It enables you to understand what piling type suits your place. In this post, we will tell you the key things involved in these investigations. Let’s move forward without further ado.
Key Phases of Site Investigation
It’s completed in 3 basic phases. Each phase conducts useful information about the soil condition and other factors that can impact piling. These phases are listed below.
Desk Study
It’s the initial phase of site investigation that involves collecting and reviewing existing information about the site. Investigators go through geological maps, historical land use records, and previous site investigation reports. It helps them understand the site’s conditions, making it easy for them to plan further investigations.
Site Survey
It involves a physical inspection of the site to identify any visible features that could affect the piling, such as slopes, water bodies, or existing structures. It helps in validating the information gathered during the desk study. Moreover, it also helps you identify any additional factors that may influence the piling process.
Ground Investigation
It’s the most crucial phase of the site investigation. It involves conducting various on-site and laboratory tests to assess the soil and rock properties. During this phase:
- Soil and rock samples are collected by drilling deep into the ground.
- Soil layers and groundwater levels are checked at the construction site.
- Soil resistance to penetration test is conducted.
Apart from that, various other tests are conducted to study and analyse the soil condition and its properties. Let’s delve into the details of these tests.
Tests Conducted During Site Investigation
The following are some primary tests conducted during a site investigation for piling.
Soil Classification Test
They involve analysing the physical and mechanical properties of the soil. Experts conduct them to gather information on grain size distribution, plasticity, and moisture content. These tests help in understanding the soil’s behaviour under load. Based on this information, you can select the appropriate piling method.
Strength Tests
These are conducted to determine the soil’s ability to resist shearing forces. The most common test for this purpose is a triaxial compression test. It provides you with useful information that helps in assessing the soil’s load-bearing capacity.
Permeability Test
It measures the rate at which water flows through the soil. Understanding soil permeability is essential for predicting drainage conditions. It also helps you assess the potential for soil liquefaction, which could compromise the integrity of the piling. Based on this information, you can opt for piling that can provide enough support.
Groundwater Monitoring
It’s a critical part of the site investigation. Groundwater conditions can affect the piling process and the long-term stability of the foundation. Continuous monitoring helps in noticing changes in groundwater levels. As a result, you can select the piling type accordingly.
Common Challenges in Site Investigation for Piling
Following are some common challenges you may experience during the site investigation.
- Soil conditions can vary significantly across a site, making it hard to understand the ground.
- Fluctuations in groundwater levels can also pose significant challenges during site investigation and piling processes.
- Underground obstructions, such as buried utilities, old foundations, or natural boulders, can cause unexpected delays and increase project costs.
Best Practices for Site Investigation
Choose a Reliable Company
For a successful site investigation, you should rely on a well-reputed piling company. Make sure your selected firm has the appropriate tools and qualified experts to conduct this survey. Apart from that, you should pay attention to their expertise as well. For instance, if you are considering mini-piling, you should contact a reliable mini piling company for investigation and installing piles.
Comprehensive Planning
Effective site investigation begins with comprehensive planning. A thorough desk study and site survey can help a lot regarding this. Proper planning helps in identifying potential challenges early. It ensures that the investigation is both efficient and detailed.
Appropriate Testing
Using a combination of on-site and laboratory tests is crucial to collect reliable data. Each test provides specific information about the soil and groundwater conditions. Based on this information, the appropriate piling type and design is selected.
Continuous Monitoring
Monitoring different site conditions throughout the project is important for adapting the piling process as needed. It helps in responding to any changes in site conditions that could affect the stability of the piling system.
Site investigation is crucial for selecting the appropriate piling type and completing the project efficiently. You should hire a reliable company to conduct all tests, and install piles.
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