Pile foundations play a crucial role in supporting heavy structures, requiring careful installation to ensure stability. The equipment and pouring process used depend on factors like pile size and location.
The concrete pouring process begins immediately after completing the borehole drilling. To ensure a solid foundation, it’s essential to follow specific steps.
Before pouring concrete, thoroughly clean the bottom of the pile borehole. This step ensures a clean surface for optimal adhesion and support.
Estimate the concrete volume needed based on pile length, diameter, and quantity. Choose appropriate pumping machinery based on the construction site’s location and the required concrete amount.
Concrete Pouring Techniques
The technique used for pouring concrete depends on the condition of the pile borehole – whether it’s dry or contains water or slurry.
If the borehole is dry, any suitable method can be used for pouring concrete. However, ensure the falling height does not exceed 2 meters.
In cases of a high water table or slurry-enhanced stability, utilize tremie pipes for concrete pouring.
Using Tremie Pipes
Set up cranes and concrete pumps at a convenient site. Use a long hose to minimize movement during the pouring process.
Insert tremie pipe sections gradually, ensuring they reach the bottom of the pile. Attach the required number of sections and the top part.
To avoid mixing concrete with slurry, pour granulated vermiculite (1/4 kg) into the tremie pipe before concrete pouring.
Pour concrete continuously, aiming to prevent any disruptions in the placement process.
Keep the tremie pipe within the concrete for a minimum of 1 meter. Move the pipe up and down with a crane or suitable machinery as the concrete fills the borehole.
Remove any tremie pipe sections that come out of the pile borehole during the process.
Pull out the tremie pipe once the concrete reaches the top of the pile.
Afterward, remove the temporary casing, ensuring the necking and shearing of the poured concrete.
Complete the process by filling the top part of the pile with concrete up to 15cm above cut-off levels.
By following these steps and techniques, the concrete pouring process for pile foundations can be efficiently and effectively carried out, ensuring the stability and longevity of the constructed structure.