Soil compaction
Dynamic soil compaction is a technique used to improve soil settlement.
Soil compaction increases the density of earth materials at significant depths using high-energy shock waves.
This method is used for building foundations or to stabilise fill or areas with uncompacted materials. It reduces the pore volume and increases soil settlement resistance. Soil compaction is a good alternative to other foundations for new buildings and allows foundations to be set directly on the fill.
The material is compressed with a drop weight from a crane in a specific grid pattern over the area to improve the soil settlement. Experience shows that the soil will settle 5 to 15 per cent during compaction, depending on the force used and the nature of the soil.
Weights and drop height must be planned so that the applied energy gives the desired effect. We have drop weights ranging from 12 to 25 tonnes and can, with our soil compactors, generate energies up to 5,000 kNm.
Nearby constructions such as roads, bridge supports, concrete structures, quays and buildings must be systematically mapped and monitored throughout the project. If necessary, preventive measures can be taken to reduce vibration.
We take a practical approach to planning the magnitude of the energies needed to achieve sufficient soil compaction based on test compaction of different areas on site.
