MICROPILE SOLUTIONS
As a leader in specialty foundations, Schnabel utilizes micropile solutions to deliver reliable structural support in some of the most challenging and complex environments worldwide.
Micropiles are small-diameter piles designed to transfer loads from weaker soils to more stable, competent ground or rock beneath. These solutions are particularly beneficial in situations where access is limited, overhead clearance is low, or drilling conditions are difficult, making other deep foundation methods impractical.
Thanks to their ability to be installed with compact, portable drilling equipment, micropile solutions offer a cost-effective foundation option for applications such as retrofitting foundations within existing buildings, under bridges, or in areas with restricted access.
No matter the environment or challenges you face, Schnabel’s expertise ensures that we provide the ideal foundation support tailored to your specific needs.
Micropile Solutions
Micropiles are small-diameter deep-foundation piles, typically measuring 12 inches or less in diameter. As a leading innovator in micropile solutions, Schnabel employs advanced drilling technology that can navigate through standard doorways and work in spaces with an 8-foot ceiling.
Micropiles are commonly used for underpinning existing structures and offer the advantage of being installed within the structure itself, minimizing vibration compared to other deep foundation methods. These piles are especially effective in areas with natural or man-made obstacles. The specialized drill systems used for micropiles are adept at penetrating cobbles, boulders, and other obstructions, making them superior to traditional drilled or driven-pile systems. The allowable loads for micropiles generally range from 20 to 200 kips, though Schnabel has successfully installed and tested micropiles with loads up to 1,200 kips.
The construction of micropiles involves using small-diameter piles to efficiently transfer loads to more stable ground beneath the surface.
In challenging environments, such as landslide debris, Schnabel has utilized micropiles as soldier beams in permanent tieback wall installations. When faced with difficult subsurface conditions and limited access, micropiles often prove to be a more economical solution for constructing new structures.
With decades of experience in micropile installation, Schnabel is uniquely equipped to provide the most effective and cost-efficient micropile solutions for your construction needs.
We bring efficiency to every stage, from sub-surface to street level, ensuring safety and precision at every turn.
Interstate 40
Schnabel engineered a pair of anchored micropile walls to secure a landslide area that was eroded by floodwaters from a hurricane, situated beneath Interstate 40 in Haywood County, North Carolina.
American Trucking Association
Schnabel engineered a unique micropile foundation system, facilitating the development of a new basement beneath a pre-existing building. This innovation was key in the refurbishment of the historic American Trucking Association building located in Washington D.C.
NCDOT contracted Schnabel to design and build a repair that would keep this important interstate open and reestablish the eastbound lane. This successful project was completed during the coldest months of the year and within the timeframe established by the State of North Carolina.
