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Modern helical steel piling (also called 'helical anchors') is the latest form of a technology developed by Irish engineer Alexander Mitchell for use on screw pile lighthouses. Nearly 200 years ago, his original technology was versatile, relatively inexpensive, easy and fast to use. Nowadays, the same benefits accrue to projects that use this technology.

Simple elegance belies sophisticated engineering

The simple elegance of these piles belies their sophisticated design. A helical pile consists of a galvanised steel shaft onto which is welded a series of low-pitched circular steel plates. The piles, varying in diameter from tens to hundreds of millimetres, are screwed into the ground with hand-held or machine-mounted hydraulic or electrically powered drilling equipment. The applications range from underpinning to support of roadside structures such as signs and gantries.

The advantages of helical screw piles

Compared to conventional piling, the advantages of helical piles include these:

• Fast installation
• Vibration free, quiet and virtually fume-free
• No excavations or spoil to remove from site
• No concrete or curing time
• Small footprint - helical screw piles are ideal for restricted sites
• Design flexibility
• Sustainability (removable and re-useable).

Steel piling - a versatile piling tool for many applications

The advantages add up to flexibility, applicability to difficult site conditions and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional piling. Used alone or with [grillage foundations], helical pile techniques offer a versatile, cost-effective solution for piling challenges in transport engineering, construction, civil engineering, telecoms and many other applications.

Screw piling - one of several services from FLI Structures

With decades of experience in this specialised field, FLI Structures is a leading exponent of helical piling techniques. As part of our range of design, manufacture, supply and installation for foundations, screw piles often enable time-saving, cost-effective alternatives to traditional concrete foundations. Please contact us for more information about off-the-shelf and bespoke helical screw piles and related foundation services.