JET GROUTING SYSTEM
As one of the nation’s premier design-build contractors, Schnabel offers outstanding jet grouting system solutions that enable clients to navigate complex operational hurdles and reach their construction objectives with confidence.
The jet grouting system is an advanced technique used to mitigate groundwater infiltration into subterranean structures. It also proves invaluable for underpinning existing buildings and providing excavation support in challenging environments.
Renowned as leaders in jet grouting, we specialize in the creation of cement-stabilized soil, designed to enhance groundwater control and provide robust foundation support.
With decades of industry expertise, Schnabel is equipped to help you tackle the unique challenges of your project while achieving optimal operational outcomes.
JET GROUTING SOLUTIONS
Jet grouting is a specialized technique used to mix soil with cement grout on-site, creating a soil column that is stabilized by the cement. This process significantly enhances the strength and reduces the permeability of the soil. When executed with precise quality control, the treated soil becomes a highly effective engineered material for supporting foundations and managing groundwater. Common applications include underpinning existing structures and constructing cutoff walls for excavation support.
The jet grouting process begins with the installation of a small-diameter pipe, typically 4 inches in diameter, which is drilled or jetted to the target treatment depth. At this depth, contractors inject a neat cement grout under high pressure—usually around 6,000 psi—through ports located at the bottom of the drill pipe. As the pipe is rotated and gradually withdrawn, the grout is injected to form a circular column of treated soil. The speed of withdrawal can be adjusted to control the diameter of the jet grout column. These columns are strategically placed for vertical support or can be overlapped to form a continuous barrier that prevents the horizontal movement of unstable soil or groundwater.

One of the key benefits of the jet grouting system is its ability to work in environments where existing utilities or other underground obstacles are present. The small-diameter pipe can navigate around these obstructions, allowing for the creation of a larger-diameter column below without disrupting the surface or surrounding structures.
A VITAL PARTNER FOR CLIENTS WITH CHALLENGING PROJECTS NATIONWIDE.
JET GROUTING CASE STUDIES
Lower Olentangy Tunnel Project | Columbus, OH
Granite Construction, the general contractor, hired Schnabel for jet grouting along the 3.2-mile tunnel. Grouting was planned at 4 tunnel shafts for TBM break-in and break-out, 12 Safe Haven sites for cutterhead replacement, and 5 locations where a water main crosses the TBM alignment. Despite project challenges, Schnabel completed the work ahead of schedule.
J Avenue Water Treatment Plant | Cedar Rapid, IA
Schnabel installed 67 jet grout columns to support the expansion of the J Avenue water treatment plant in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This project required an excavation adjacent to an existing structure. The continuous wall of jet grout columns was successful in retaining the soil and water behind the wall and no measurable settlement of the tank structure occurred.
The Minneapolis Children’s Hospital project was Schnabel’s first application of jet grouting to underpin an existing structure in lieu of traditional hand-dug underpinning pits. The project team was very pleased with the performance of the jet grout underpinning system.