MICROPILES
A leading specialty foundations provider, Schnabel uses micropile construction to provide dependable structural support in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
Micropiles are typically small-diameter piles installed to transfer loads through less competent ground to more competent underlying ground or rock. They are generally used where difficult access, low overhead, or challenging drilling conditions preclude the use of other types of deep foundations.
Because they can be installed with relatively small drilling equipment, micropiles are a cost-effective foundation system inside existing buildings, under existing bridges, and in other types of low-overhead or restricted-access conditions.
Whatever the environment, whatever your operational challenges, Schnabel has the expertise to provide the right foundation support system for your unique needs.
Micropile Solutions
Micropiles are small-diameter, typically 12 inches or less, deep-foundation piles. An innovative micropiles construction company, Schnabel has specialized drills that can even travel through a standard doorway and drill under an 8-foot ceiling.
Often used to underpin existing structures, micropiles can be installed inside the structure, and their installation produces less vibration than other deep foundation systems. Micropiles are also used to construct deep foundations where there are natural or man-made obstructions, since the drill systems developed for these smaller diameter holes are better able to penetrate cobbles, boulders and other obstructions compared to conventionally drilled or driven-pile systems. Allowable loads for micropiles are typically between 20 and 200 kips, but Schnabel has installed and tested micropiles to 1,200 kips.
Micropiles construction involves the use of small-diameter piles to transfer loads to more competent underlying ground.
In the most difficult drilling conditions, such as landslide debris, Schnabel has drilled micropiles and used them as soldier beams in permanent tieback wall construction. In difficult subsurface conditions and restricted access, micropiles can be a more cost-effective solution for new-structure construction.
With decades of experience performing micropiles installation, Schnabel is able to provide the most cost effective micropile solution for your project.
Sub-surface to street level, safely and efficiently.
Micropile Case Studies
Piedmont Henry Expansion | Stockbridge, GA
Brasfield & Gorrie hired Schnabel to design and install an excavation support system for a new five-story patient tower, requiring a 25-foot excavation. To ensure uninterrupted hospital operations, Schnabel installed underpinning micropiles to maintain the stability of the nearby building with shallow foundations.
American Trucking Association | Washington, D.C.
Forrester Construction contracted Schnabel to design & build a system extending the foundations of existing structures before site excavation. Schnabel’s micropile support system enabled the construction of a new basement under an existing structure to support the renovation of the historical American Trucking Association building in Washington D.C.
NCDOT contracted Schnabel to design and build a repair that would keep this important interstate open and reestablish the eastbound lane. This successful project was completed during the coldest months of the year and within the timeframe established by the State of North Carolina.
