GROUNDFIX®
HYDRAULIC-PRESSED MICROPILES FOR DEEP STRUCTURAL CONSOLIDATION OF FOUNDATIONS.
GROUNDFIX® is minimally invasive active piling technology using special modular steel elements which are assembled and pressed into the ground by hydraulic jacks attached to the original foundation structure with high-strength anchoring plates and grouts.
GROUNDFIX® represents the structural solution for deeper consolidation of foundations with the aim of transferring loads to soils with a greater load-bearing capacity.
Installation of Micropiles
To install a GROUNDFIX® hydraulic-pressed micropile, it must first be possible to anchor it to the building which will then counteract the hydraulic thrust. In fact, the micropile is slowly driven into the ground at a constant pressure, using a series of jacks, until the solid soil horizon of the project has been reached.
Once driven into the ground, before securing the micropile to the original foundation, it is still possible to apply loads higher than those of operation, with consequent inhibition of primary post-connection subsidence. Furthermore, it is possible to perform load tests for final acceptance testing of the foundation consolidation work on each micropile. If needed, expanding resin injections at surface level can be combined with this technique to restore contact between the original foundation and its footprint or to improve soil densification in the stratum the micropile passes through. GEOSEC® guarantees the constant on-site presence of one of its in-house expert technicians, always in close collaboration with our headquarters’ central technical office and Works Management.
The GROUNDFIX micropile system complies with the design criteria established by the guidelines of Imperial College London.
Technical benefits
This procedure has numerous benefits over traditional piling techniques, namely:
- Possibility to test the load-bearing capacity of every single micropile;
- Possibility of active pre-load;
- No spoil material;
- Quick turnaround times;
- Reduced worksite impact;
- No vibrations generated when driving in the micropiles;
- When allowed for by the structure, subsidence recovery is possible.
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Certifications
Our modular devices are made with materials of traced and certified origin. The structural steelwork is carried out by the Transformation Centre authorized by the competent Ministry and in accordance with the provisions set out in the Ministerial Decree dated 17 January 2018 and subsequent amendments and integrations) “New Technical Standards for Buildings” for the use of structural steel in construction work.
The GROUNDFIX micropile system complies with the design criteria established by the guidelines of Imperial College London.
10-year good workmanship warranty
Thanks to our collaboration with a leading international insurance group, we are able to offer a warranty extension on the work carried out also by means of a 10-year good workmanship warranty coverage. To find out more, go to this website’s “WARRANTIES” section.
Technical Specifications of Micropiles
Modular micropiles are made with S355J2 steel elements for subsequent on-site assembly.
Production diameters: 63 – 76 – 114 mm. Are you a professional? Access the dedicated section directly via the menu on the right or request a no-obligation inspection; our technicians are ready to give you all the support you need for your projects.