Steel sheet piling is something we’re all aware of, as we use it in construction regularly, yet do you fully understand the benefits this type of sheet metal fabrication offers and how you can utilise them to your advantage?
If you’re not 100% sure, then this post is for you.
Whether you’re considering sheet piling for the first time or you’re a pro at using this on your sites but would like to know more and, in particular, see how the experienced team at Morfab can help, read on.
Sheet piling for construction
First, let’s take a look at what steel sheet piling actually is and why we use steel sheet piles.
Steel piles are sections of sheet steel that have been fabricated and precision-engineered with interlocking edges, which you drive into the ground during construction, allowing you to build a permanent or temporary support or wall to retain earth during excavation.
Steel sheet piling is a hot-rolled sheet section that provides a reliable wall solution, securely retaining earth and water on one side while safeguarding the other side.
Used:
- To support excavation works
- Sheet piling for construction projects
- To protect areas/works/site access areas
Whether temporary or permanent, these sturdy lateral steel structures help to create a border, as they are installed in a sequence and arranged around the specified perimeter.
Steel piling pros
There are various types of sheet piling to choose from, depending on the project and site.
For example:
- Anchored sheet piles should be used when the height required is less than 6 metres.
- Opt for Cantilever sheet piles again when the height is 6m or less.
- Cofferdams – when building large structures such as bridges.
(To find out more about the importance of BIM in sheet metal fabrication, make sure to check out our latest post here.)
Steel sheet piling benefits
- Supports sustainability initiatives – steel is 100% recyclable
- Available in a range of lengths and sizes
- Can be temporary or permanent to suit our construction site requirements
- Neat and clean – steel sheet piling can help tidy areas up and keep construction sites out of sight until they are ready to be revealed
- Minimal storage required – due to their composition, sheet piles can be stacked on top of each other for storage, and due to their density, they don’t take up much space protecting the perimeter
- Cost-effective – one major advantage for construction managers planning their budgets is that steel sheet piling is considerably cheaper than installing concrete retaining walls – which can also be more challenging to remove if they are only to be temporary
- Quick installation – interlocking sections are prefabricated, so when they arrive on-site, they can simply slot into each other quickly and quietly
- Suitable for any shape – working with a professional fabricator allows you to customise your steel sheet piling to meet your site requirements
- Can withstand high pressure
- They require very little maintenance – steel is corrosive and rust-resistant, and due to its strength-to-weight ratio, steel has a long lifespan
- Creates close-fitting joints – ideal when areas need to be kept watertight and of a high quality
- Installed on all ground conditions – steel piles are suitable for all areas, and trained and experienced fabricators will use a range of tools and equipment to secure these in place. For example, you can use vibration hammers, if needed, for installation, as well as hydraulics.
- They have a long life span, standing the test of time and able to withstand even the harshest of environmental factors
- Flexible, able to be installed on all ground types and in all various positions
- Steel is incredibly lightweight, so easy to transport and install
Disadvantages
For all sheet metal fabrication comes with numerous advantages, it is also important to be aware of some of the challenges associated with it.
For example, in the case of steel sheet piling, it can be difficult to install sheets if the ground is rocky or has large boulders.
Sheet piling can also be seen as more expensive if only temporary structures are being used, as it can be costly to dismantle and reassemble repeatedly.
Advantages of working with a professional steel fabricator
We can’t emphasise how important it is to work with a professional team who can not only provide the end product you require but a team that can deliver this on time, within budget, and to a high standard.
Look for a team that has experience working in this area. Who has proven examples of their work and standards. Who provide high levels of customer service matched with the highest quality products at the most cost-effective prices.
Sheet metal fabricator
If you’re looking for a sheet metal fabrication near me, look no further.
We’re an experienced team with years of experience providing construction sites and firms with steel sheet piling.
Designing, manufacturing, and installing, we aim to find the most appropriate solution for you, providing you with the advantages of sheet piles and more.
Want to know more?
Call 0191 8162718