Foundation specialist Roger Bullivant Ltd is creating 92 concrete piles to depths of between 17m and 18.5m using a continuous flight auger (CFA) powered by a large 7006 series rig, designed and manufactured by RBL.
Access to site is via a busy one way street on a bus route, and the construction footprint of the five storey apartment block takes up almost all of the site. Close proximity of buildings on three sides also favoured the CFA technique because of the need to reduce noise and vibration.
RBL associate director Andy Preece says: “CFA piles are the only form of ground engineering suitable on this type of development. Ground conditions meant the
7006 series rig was the most suitable of RBL’s extensive piling fleet.” Pile loads vary between 400kN and 475kN and RBL is creating around 500 linear metres of foundation pile every day. CFA piles have also been installed on site within a lift pit to support a tower crane.
The main contractor is Lomand Homes. Company surveyor Chris Coleman said: “In situ foundations were preferred because we are working in a tight, confined site with little room to receive deliveries of precast concrete piles.
