Method and apparatus for installing a helical pile

Abstract

An apparatus and a method to assist in the installation of a helical pile. The apparatus comprises a drive mechanism having an engaged and a disengaged configuration. When in its engaged configuration the drive mechanism operatively grips the exterior surface of the helical pile. When in its disengaged configuration the drive mechanism operatively releases the exterior surface of the helical pile. Movement of the drive mechanism when in its engaged configuration causes rotational movement of the pile. When in its disengaged configuration the drive mechanism moves without rotation of the pile.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to a method and an apparatus that may be used to install a helical or screw pile. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Helical or screw piles have been used for decades to help support the foundation of buildings, bridges and other civil engineering structures. Traditionally helical piles were used primarily in areas of weak or wet soil and their application was somewhat limited as their installation was difficult without mechanical assistance. However, more recently helical piles have become considerably more widespread in use due to the advent of high torque motors that are used to rotate the piles and drive them into the ground. The resistence of a helical pile to both upward and carrying loads makes it attractive for use in a wide range of different situations. Today helical or screw piles are commonly used in foundation support for commercial and residential buildings, to help support temporary structures, as a support for stre...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007] The invention therefore provides a method and an apparatus that may be used to install a helical or screw pile whereby the need for the use of a large boom truck is eliminated or minimized, as is the requirement for physically welding, bolting or pinning an intermediary drive member or torque coupling to the end of the pile in order to connect the pile to the motor of a drive head. The invention provides for a drive mechanism that imparts rotational movement to a pile without appreciable movement or displacement of the drive mechanism in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pile.

Problems solved by technology

Traditionally helical piles were used primarily in areas of weak or wet soil and their application was somewhat limited as their installation was difficult without mechanical assistance.

While such a structure is effective in transmitting rotational movement from the motor to the pile, it can also require a considerable amount of labour to put into operation on account of the need to weld, bolt, pin or otherwise secure the torque coupling to the end of the pile.

Where a large boom truck is used to drive a lengthy helical pile, difficulties can arise when trying to maintain the pile in a vertical orientation due to the length of the pile and the weight of the drive motor that is attached to its upper end.

The cost of utilizing a trunk having an extruded boom can be significant.

Large boom trucks also restrict the ability to work in confined areas.

Attaching, removing and subsequently re-attaching the drive member is both time consuming and costly.

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