What is the proper vinyl sheet pile driving method for different soil types?

“Pitch and drive” method is the most practical way of pile driving in loose soils especially when using short piles. Also called “set and drive”, this method installs piles one by one. However, with only one interlock in control, sheet piles have high tendencies of rotating from the axis and leaning forward or backward. Panel driving is recommended for the dense deposit of sands and compact cohesive soils such as heavy clay or in presence of obstructions. In this method, a number of piles are interlocked together before driving. The panel of piles is supported by guide frames and driven gradually in sequence, sometimes in a staggered manner. The method can achieve installations of longer piles in more difficult ground conditions with better results in sheet pile alignment and verticality. In cases of difficult ground conditions such as hard strata and the presence of obstructions, driving assistance is employed along with a proper selection of driving method and equipment. Jetting and drilling help by loosening or eliminating obstructions by creating pressure right under the tip of the sheet pile being driven. Long and slender PVC sheet piles require steel mandrels as supports when driven in such conditions. Mandrel, which shape is similar to sheet pile profiles, increases the rigidity of Plastic Sheet Pile and supports the weight of the driving equipment such as a vibro-hammer.

What is the proper machine to drive piles in different conditions?

Impact driving is suitable for all soil types but appears to create the highest degree of stress to sheet piles. It is more appropriate to cohesive soils and soft soils such as silts and peats, loose medium to coarse sand, and gravels free of rock inclusions. Drop hammers such as the hydraulic hammer are the common types of impact-driving machinery. Driving using vibratory hammers is ideal for non-cohesive or granular soils such as soft soils and round-grained sand or gravel. It has also shown satisfactory performance in sandy, silty, or softer clay soils. It is less effective in angular-grained materials and soils with a firm consistency. With the introduction of vibration, however, the sub-soil can be further compacted, increasing penetration resistance and ultimately-refusal. If this is the case, driving aids like jetting and drilling might be necessary.

What are the pvc sheet pile selection criteria for soil condition of different hardness?

General rule of the thumb: “the harder the soil, the stronger and stiffer sheet pile section should be used”. Driveability of a pile section is a consequence of its cross-sectional properties (thickness, depth, and width), designed shape, length, grade, and the applied load. Hardness of soil strata characterized by SPT or CPT values is used to predict soil resistance which is essential in the calculation of driving force to be applied. Knowing the range of force from the selected driving machine, corresponding sheet pile sections can be picked according to their yield strength and elastic modulus.

How should I choose a sheet pile section for soils with, say, SPT Value, N=30? Can I still consider using vinyl or shift to steel?

Every sheet pile material has a design purpose, strengths, and areas of improvement. The availability of different materials denotes the need for a special material for a specific application. Plastic or synthetic sheet piles for example are known for being light and corrosion-resistant; Steel sheet piles are recognized for their extraordinary strength and versatility; and so on.

ESC Group

Aug 21, 20233 min read

Features and Advantages of Using Trench Sheets

Updated: Sep 23, 2023

Trench sheets are widely used in the construction industry to provide excavation support, water and soil retention, and land reclamation. They offer numerous features and advantages that make them a popular choice for various applications such as retaining soil, supporting trenches, and creating temporary structures. In this article, we will discover what an ESC trench sheet piling can offer.

What are trench sheets used for?

Trench sheets, also known as trench sheet piles, are highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications in construction. Trench sheets are often used as ground support solutions. The most common type of applications are sewerage and drainage work, and specifically sheeting for light excavations and temporary works. The ability to adapt to different conditions and requirements makes trench sheets suitable for various construction projects.

Excavation Support

One of the primary purposes of trench sheets is to provide excavation support. When conducting deep excavations, trench sheets act as temporary retaining walls, preventing soil collapse and ensuring the safety of workers. The sheets are driven into the ground to create a barrier that holds back the earth, allowing construction activities to be carried out below ground level. This feature is particularly beneficial in projects involving basements and underground structures.

Retaining Walls and Soil/Water Pressure Resistance

Trench sheets excel at resisting pressure from both soil and water, making them ideal for constructing retaining walls. They provide structural support for retaining soil and are capable of withstanding substantial loads. The sheets are designed to withstand high lateral forces and maintain their stability, ensuring the integrity of the retaining structure.

Lightweight Shoring Solutions and Easy Installation

Trench sheets are typically made of lightweight steel profiles, which makes them easy to handle and install. Their lightweight nature allows for efficient transportation, reducing logistical challenges on construction sites. This feature enhances productivity and facilitates faster installation.

Interlocking and High Yield Sections

Many trench sheet designs feature interlocking mechanisms, enabling quick and secure connections between individual sheets. These interlocks ensure the stability and integrity of the retaining wall or excavation support system. Additionally, some trench sheets are produced from high yield steel, which provides exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and durability. High yield sections are particularly beneficial for more demanding applications where increased strength and resistance to on-site damage are required.

Cost-Effective Solution

Trench sheets offer a cost-effective solution for excavation support and retaining wall construction. Their ease of installation, reusability, and durability contribute to overall project cost savings. Compared to alternative methods such as soldier pile and lagging or modular shoring, trench sheets can often provide a more economical option without compromising on safety and performance.

Trench Sheets (Steel Trench Piles) Sizes

The sections come in different specifications, catering to both temporary and permanent work. The lightweight steel profile of these trench sheets and pile sections makes them easy to handle and install, and they are available in lengths up to 12 meters maximum, any project specific length can be produced.

Compatibility with Accessories

Trench sheets are compatible with various handling and installation accessories, such as waler rails and braces. These accessories enhance the stability and efficiency of the trench sheet systems, providing additional support and reinforcement. The flexibility to incorporate accessories further expands the versatility and applicability of trench sheet systems, providing additional support and reinforcement. The flexibility to incorporate accessories further expands the versatility and applicability of trench sheets in different construction scenarios.

Trench sheets offer a range of features and advantages that make them a valuable asset in the construction industry. Their versatility, excavation support capabilities, resistance to soil and water pressure, lightweight nature, interlocking mechanisms, and compatibility with accessories make them a popular choice for various applications. Whether it's for temporary excavation support or the construction of permanent retaining walls, trench sheets provide a cost-effective and reliable solution for a wide range of construction projects.

ESC provides a wide range of highly efficient cold-formed trench sheets products that offer cost-effective solutions for shallow excavation support applications. These trench sheets and pile sections are made from high yield steel, safeguarding an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. This not only enhances their durability during driving but also makes them sturdy to on-site damage

Are you looking for the best trench sheet piles supplier? Choose ESC! Email us to learn more escuae@escpileuae.com.