How to fill screw piles internally

 

When building houses, sheds, or utility buildings, the use of screw piles is increasingly gaining attention. This foundation method offers many advantages, including quick installation, no need for heavy equipment, and minimal environmental impact. However, one of the most important steps when using screw piles is their internal fill, which provides additional reliability and durability of the structure.

Why is it necessary to fill screw piles?

Filling the internal cavities of the pile serves several important purposes:

• Increase the strength and stability of the structure.

• Provide additional waterproofing.

• Reduce the likelihood of corrosion of metal parts.

• Maintain thermal insulation properties.

• Prevent bracing and deformation.

Each of these factors plays a key role in the overall strength and durability of the foundation.

What to fill screw piles internally with?

There are several popular materials that can be used for filling screw piles. Let's look at the main ones:

1. Concrete

Concrete is one of the most common and effective materials for filling screw piles. It has high strength and load-bearing capacity, making it an ideal choice for foundations.

• Pros: High strength, corrosion resistance, durability.

• Cons: Requires time to set, heavy material.

2. Sand

Sand can be used as an alternative to concrete, especially where a lightweight and inexpensive option is required.

• Pros: Lightweight, easy to place, good drainage.

• Cons: Less strength compared to concrete.

3. Crushed Rock

Filling the pile with crushed rock helps improve drainage and load distribution.

• Pros: Excellent water drainage, easy to place.

• Cons: Less stable than concrete.

4. Water

Water can be used in combination with other materials to create special conditions, such as when pouring concrete. • Pros: Aids in the concrete curing process.

• Cons: Not suitable for long-term use without other fillers.

5. Specialized Mixtures

Specialized pile fill mixtures with unique properties are available on the market.

• Pros: Can have thermal insulation or waterproofing properties.

• Cons: Often more expensive than traditional materials.

How to choose the right material?

Choosing the right fill material for screw piles depends on several factors:

• Type and purpose of the structure.

• Operating conditions.

• Budget.

• Strength and stability requirements.

Impact of fill on structural reliability

The fill of screw piles is essential for the overall reliability and durability of the structure. Let's take a closer look at how it affects various aspects:

Load resistance

Proper pile fill helps distribute loads evenly, which is especially important for heavily weighted buildings. Concrete, for example, provides additional strength.

Corrosion Protection

Filling internal cavities prevents moisture accumulation, reducing the risk of corrosion of metal components. This is especially important for piles in contact with the ground.

Waterproofing

Filling piles with special waterproofing mixtures helps prevent water ingress. This protects the structure from deterioration and decay.

Installation and Placement of Materials

When filling screw piles, certain steps should be followed to achieve the best results:

1. Prepare the internal cavity of the pile by clearing it of debris and soil residue.

2. Select and prepare the appropriate filling material.

3. Place the material in an even layer, ensuring uniform distribution.

4. Check for voids and add more material if necessary.

5. If using concrete, allow it to set before loading the structure.

Filling the internal cavity of screw piles is an important step that should not be ignored. Selecting the right material and performing high-quality work will ensure the reliability and durability of your structure. Remember to consider all aspects, from the type of your project to the climate, to make the best choice for your foundation.