A Micropile is a small diameter, typically less than 300mm, drilled and grouted non-displacement pile which is heavily reinforced and carries most of its loading on the high capacity steel reinforcement.
Applications
For Structural support (Case 1)
- New Foundations
- Under pinning of existing structures
- Seismic retrofitting of existing structures
- Scour protection
- Earth retention
- Tension anchors
In situ Reinforcement (Case 2)
- Slope Stabilization
- Earth retention
- Ground strengthening and protection
- Settlement reduction
Advantages
- Used where need of minimal vibration or noise is of prime importance
- Easy laying at low head room
- Easy installation at any angle below the horizontal
- Offer a practical and cost-effective solution to costly alternative pile systems as well as a solution to job sites with difficult access
- Do not require large access road or drilling platforms
Disadvantages
- Minimum lateral capacity to vertical micropiles
- High slenderness ratio
- Requires specialized and experienced applicators
- Initial higher costing