Frequently Asked Questions about the Geopier® System
Q: What is it about Geopier® reinforcement
that constitutes a "Breakthrough in Foundation Technology?"
A: Geopier® represents the first viable, verifiable
"Intermediate Foundation® Technology" in-between deep and shallow
foundations. Geopier reinforcement was developed to take maximum
advantage of soil's unique engineering behavior.
Q: Are there other aggregate pier systems that can achieve similar settlement control?
A: Absolutely not, unless the alternative system incorporates high energy, vertical ramming ( NOT vibration) using a leveled tamper foot.
Q: What general conditions indicate the
use of Geopier soil reinforcement as an alternative foundation solution?
A: When soils are unsuitable for shallow foundations
due to low allowable bearing capacity or excesive settlement.
Q: What are some examples of these conditions?
A: Soft, fine-grained soils, loose, coarse-grained
soils, poorly-compacted fill soils, debris or organic fill soils,
and peat.
Q: What other special uses for Geopier® reinforcement
have proven to be highly effective in addition to settlement control
for buildings?
A: (1) High Capacity uplift anchors. Columns with over 400 kip uplift loads have been supported by Geopier® anchor elements.
(2) Landslide stabilization.
(3) Retaining walls, highway embankments, bridge approaches
(4) Slabs on-grade.
(5) Storage silos.
(6) Tunnel system reinforcement and pavement stabilization.
Q: What equipment is used for constructing
Rammed Aggregate Pier® elements?
A: GeoTech Foundation Company - West performs complete design and build of the Geopier®
system utilizing its own equipment. One Geopier crew is typically
comprised of a drill rig (truck mounted or dangle drill), one excavator
with the Geopier tamper attached to the energy source, and one
skid steer for moving aggregate. If Geopier cavities require casing
in order to keep the holes open, then a fourth piece of equipment
is added.
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