Chapter 82 Piling problems

The successful installation of piles requires a good understanding of the potential problems that can arise, which are highly dependent on the type of piling and the ground conditions in which the pile is installed. These can affect the geotechnical behaviour of the piled foundation and its structural integrity, as well as its impact on the environment.

For bored piles, the different methods of boring, the type of drilling tool and the way the ground is supported will have different effects on the ground. The structural integrity is also affected by the way in which the concrete is placed, the detailing and installation of reinforcement, and the final trimming of pile heads.

Driven piles are either low or high displacement piles. Installation techniques vary from drop hammers and vibratory techniques to hydraulic press-in methods. The technique chosen and the amount of ground displacement can affect both the behaviour of the pile and its structural integrity. Installation aids such as jetting and pre-boring require careful control, and environmental effects such as noise and vibration also require particular consideration.

Guidance is provided on how problems are commonly identified, how they are assessed, and the ways in which they can be resolved.