The Ultimate Guide to Helical Piles: Why They’re the Future of Foundation Solutions
What Are Helical Piles?
Helical piles, also known as screw piles, are a deep foundation solution used in construction projects that require strong, stable, and fast-to-install foundations. Unlike traditional concrete foundations, helical piles are screwed into the ground, making them an excellent choice for projects in unstable soil conditions, remote locations, and environmentally sensitive areas.
How Do Helical Piles Work?
Helical piles consist of a steel shaft with helical plates (or flights) that allow the pile to be twisted into the soil like a screw. Once installed, they provide superior load-bearing capacity and stability, making them ideal for structures such as:
- Compressor stations
- Electrical substations
- Solar panel foundations
- Pipelines and pipe racks
- Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
- Industrial and municipal projects
Why Are Helical Piles Better Than Traditional Foundations?
Many industries are shifting towards helical pile foundations due to their numerous advantages over traditional concrete foundations. Here’s why:
1. Faster Installation
Traditional concrete foundations require excavation, curing, and extended setup times. Helical piles, on the other hand, can be installed in a fraction of the time, reducing project delays and increasing efficiency.
2. Minimal Environmental Impact
Unlike traditional foundations that involve heavy excavation and soil disturbance, helical piles are installed with minimal ground disruption. This makes them ideal for environmentally sensitive areas and projects requiring low-impact construction methods.
3. Superior Load-Bearing Capacity
Helical piles are engineered to support heavy loads and withstand extreme environmental conditions, making them a preferred choice for energy sector projects, including oil & gas infrastructure and renewable energy installations.
4. Immediate Load-Bearing Capability
Unlike concrete foundations that require curing time, helical piles can be loaded immediately after installation, expediting project timelines.
5. Cost-Effective
The speed of installation, reduced labor costs, and lack of curing time make helical piles a cost-efficient foundation solution compared to traditional alternatives.
Industries That Benefit from Helical Piles
Oil & Gas
- Compressor station foundations
- Pipeline supports
- Tank foundations
Power Transmission & Distribution
- Electrical substations
- Dead-end structures
- Transformer foundations
Renewable Energy
- Solar panel arrays
- Wind turbine foundations
- Battery energy storage systems
Industrial & Municipal Projects
- Mining infrastructure
- Earth-retaining structures
- Underpinning and stabilization
Common Questions About Helical Piles
1. How long do helical piles last?
A helical pile has a lifespan of 50+ years, depending on soil conditions and environmental factors. Galvanized steel options can further enhance longevity.
2. Can helical piles be installed in all soil types?
Helical piles work in most soil conditions, including clay, sand, and even permafrost. Engineers assess soil conditions to determine the correct pile design for each project.
3. How deep do helical piles go?
Depth varies based on load requirements and soil conditions, but they typically range from 10 to 100 feet deep.
4. Are helical piles reusable?
Yes! Helical piles can be removed and reused, making them an excellent choice for temporary structures and sustainable construction.
Why Choose Alterrus for Your Helical Pile Needs?
At Alterrus, we specialize in turnkey helical pile solutions, offering everything from engineering and material procurement to installation and as-built documentation. With over 100 years of combined industry experience, our team ensures that your project’s foundation is done right the first time.
Contact Us Today
📞 (281) 516-5797
📧 projects@alterrusllc.com
🌍 www.alterrusllc.com
