Pilots
Definition
Introduction to pile drivers
Piling machines are specialized machines used in civil engineering and construction for the execution of deep foundations by installing piles in the ground. These vertical structures transfer the loads of buildings or infrastructure to deep layers of the ground with greater bearing capacity, ensuring the stability and durability of the work.
The use of pile drivers is essential in projects where the surface soil does not have sufficient resistance or has adverse geotechnical conditions. These machines allow drilling, driving or placing prefabricated or in situ piles, facilitating the construction of buildings, bridges, docks and other large structures.
Types of pile drivers
Percussion pilots
Percussion pilers work by repetitive blows that drive prefabricated piles into the ground. This method is one of the most traditional and consists of the use of a hammer that is raised and released to impact the head of the pile, achieving its vertical penetration.
These machines are robust and can be used on different types of piles, such as wooden, steel or precast concrete piles. However, they generate significant vibrations and noise, which can be a limiting factor in sensitive urban areas.
The control of the impact energy and the depth reached are fundamental aspects to ensure the quality of the pile installed using this technique.
Drilling Piling Machines
Drilling pilers are designed to drill deep holes in the ground, where concrete piles are subsequently placed in situ or stabilizing materials are injected. These machines use rotary or rotopercussive techniques to remove soil and create the space needed for the foundation.
This type of pile driver is ideal for complex soils or where vibrations and noise must be minimized. In addition, they allow the installation of large diameter and long piles, adapting to large-scale projects.
Precision in drilling and handling of auxiliary equipment, such as formwork or casing systems, are decisive for the success of the process.