Micropiles are deep foundation elements typically ranging between 150 mm to 350 mm in diameter. They are comprised of high-strength steel casing, rebar, and grout.
Micropiles are commonly used for replacing the deteriorating foundation systems, renovation of structures, slope or landslide stabilization. They do not rely on end-bearing capacity, so there is no need to establish the competency of rock beyond bond-depth. They can be installed quickly in virtually every type of ground and at various angles using highly adaptable and compact mobile drilling equipment.
Micropiles are generally used in the following circumstances:
- Difficult ground conditions such as natural or man-made obstructions
- Sensitive ground with adjacent structures
- Limited access or low headroom
Advantages of Micropiles:
- Cost-effective as they help shorten the project timeline
- Allow facility upgrades with minimal disruption to normal operations
- Improves the ground
- Offer high skin friction