The Three Methods of Pile Driving
How Marine Contractors Install Piles in Southern California
In southern marine construction, there are three primary methods for installing piles for piers and docking systems, each with their own set of benefits and proper application criteria. These three systems are:
- Impact driving method
- Vibrodriving method
- Water Jetting method
Depending on the soil type, the scope of the project, and many other factors, the method that is best used for pile installation can vary. Fortunately, Associated Pacific Constructors is very familiar with all methods of pile driving. Here’s a closer examination of the three types of pile driving systems that can be employed in pier and dock construction:
Impact Driving Method
Utilizing the impact method of pile driving is the most straightforward, hammer vs. nail approach. As the name implies, a massive drop hammer is used as a falling weight to create an impact on the piling via a driving cap. Usually, this hammer system is powered hydraulically, although in the past diesel and air pressure systems were commonly used to create the explosive force necessary to drive piles. Advancements in hydraulic technology have made that particular method of impact pile driving much more practical and efficient, and come at a much lower noise cost.
Vibrodriving Method
Pile driving by utilizing the vibrodriving method is pretty ingenious. Predominantly used when the soil being driven is fairly soft, vibrodriving involves attaching an oscillating driver to the top of a piling. This driver features an engine that is specifically designed to create vibrations in the piling, reducing the surface friction along the sides of the pile. With some added downward force applied, vibrodriving essentially allows piles to be wiggled into the ground.
Water Jetting Method
Water jetting is primarily used in sand and or soft material. This method works very well with concrete or timber piles which are used for guide or friction piles. There are two ways of getting water around the pile. One method employs a steel pipe, pressurized with water, and lowered alongside the pile. As the water displaces the soil or sand the pile lowers itself down to the desired tip elevation. The other method is used with a concrete pile. During the casting or manufacturing process, a PVC tube is cast into the pile from the bottom to near the top of the pile. This allows for a water jet hose to be connected to the top of the pile. As the pile is lowered into the seabed by a crane the water pressure is increased and flows through the internal pipe, allowing the water to wash out the bottom of the pile and the pile is lowered into position.
Pile Installation with Associated Pacific Constructors
We own and operate an extensive range of specialized equipment that is able to install all types of marine and land-based pilings. Everything from load-bearing piles, marina guide piles, and more are in our wheelhouse. As one of the most experienced Marine Contractors on the southern California Coast we can provide all your marine pile and foundation solutions. Contact us today to get started on your project!
