Abstract:
Grouted helical piles are increasingly becoming a preferred foundation solution in geotechnical engineering due to their numerous advantages over traditional piling systems. These piles combine the benefits of helical screw piles with either gravity-based grouting techniques or pressure grouting techniques, resulting in enhanced load-bearing capacities and improved soil-pile interaction. The primary advantages include increased axial and lateral load resistance, reduced installation time, and minimal site disturbance due to the relatively small equipment footprint required for installation. Additionally, grouted helical piles can be installed in various soil conditions, including loose or weak soils, where conventional piles may not perform adequately. The use of grout minimizes the risk of corrosion by providing an additional protective layer around the steel pile and enhances bonding between the soil and pile, thereby providing greater stability and resistance to settlement. An essential aspect of their performance is the grout take, which refers to the volume of grout absorbed by the surrounding soil during installation. Increased grout take can enhance the load-bearing capacity of helical piles by improving the bond between the pile shaft and the surrounding soil, as well as increasing the effective diameter of the pile. This presentation focuses on the factors contributing to increased grout take in grouted helical piles, including soil type, installation methods, grout properties, and pile geometry. By optimizing the grout mix, modifying the installation technique, and ensuring proper application and soil conditions, the grout take on grouted helical piles can be effectively increased, leading to better pile performance and foundation stability.