Knowledge base

Displacement screw pile foundations

Displacement screw piles are an innovative solution in the field of foundation engineering for construction objects. This advanced foundation technology is gaining increasing popularity in Polish construction thanks to its effectiveness, speed of installation, and friendliness to the natural environment.

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Technical characteristics of displacement screw piles

Displacement screw piles are steel structural elements equipped with a spiral helix, which allows them to be screwed directly into the ground. This system is based on the use of round, closed steel profiles with multiple thread turns, which provides a self-tapping mechanism during the installation process.

The operating principle of these piles relies on the simultaneous action of torque and pressing force. As the pile is screwed into the ground, it is displaced and compacted, without the need for drilling holes or removing excavated material. This process leads to a significant strengthening of the soil structure around the pile, which directly translates into an increase in the bearing capacity of the entire foundation system.

Installation process

The installation of displacement screw piles is characterized by simplicity and speed of execution. Installation is performed using specialized mounting equipment that generates the appropriate torque and downforce. The pile is gradually screwed into the ground, with the helix acting as a thread, facilitating penetration of the substrate.

A key advantage of this process is the elimination of the need for preliminary boreholes. The soil is not excavated, but displaced and compacted around the pile shaft, which eliminates the problem associated with the disposal of spoil and reduces the cost and time of the investment.

Advantages of displacement screw pile technology

Displacement screw pile technology is distinguished by its exceptionally low impact on the natural environment. 

  • The lack of spoil generation means the elimination of the need for its transport and disposal, which significantly reduces the carbon footprint of the investment. 

  • Additionally, the installation process is characterized by a minimal noise level and the absence of harmful vibrations, which is particularly important for projects in urban areas or near sensitive ecosystems.

From an economic point of view, screw piles offer a range of benefits. 

  • Speed of installation translates into a shorter execution time for the entire investment, which generates savings related to labor costs and equipment rental. 

  • The possibility of using light installation equipment eliminates the need for heavy construction equipment, further reducing logistical costs.

One of the most important advantages of this technology is the immediate bearing capacity of the piles after their installation. Unlike traditional concrete piles, which require time to set and reach full strength, screw piles can be loaded immediately after installation. This feature significantly accelerates the construction work schedule.

Applications of displacement screw piles

Displacement screw piles find a wide range of applications in various areas of construction:

  • Residential and public utility construction - They are particularly valued in the case of expanding existing buildings, where minimal vibrations during installation do not threaten the stability of neighboring structures.

  • Energy infrastructure - foundations for power line poles, telecommunications masts, and support structures for photovoltaic installations and wind turbines. 

  • Temporary and modular objects - due to the possibility of dismantling and re-use.

Winkelmann Foundation Screw modular system

An example of an advanced solution in the field of displacement screw piles is the Winkelmann Foundation Screw system. It is characterized by high flexibility and the ability to adapt to various ground conditions. This system allows for the selection of appropriate pile parameters depending on the design requirements and the specifics of the subsoil.

The modular structure allows for the connection of pile segments, which enables the achievement of significant foundation depths. Thanks to this, the system can be used both in shallow-lying load-bearing soils and in cases requiring deep foundations.

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