Impact® Piers

The Geopier Impact® System is an efficient and cost-effective Intermediate Foundation® solution for the support of settlement sensitive structures using Rammed Aggregate Piers® installed using a “displacement method”. A specially designed mandrel and tamper foot is driven into the ground using a strong static force augmented by dynamic vertical impact energy. After driving to the design depth, the hollow mandrel serves as a conduit for aggregate placement and compaction is achieved through static down force and dynamic vertical ramming energy imparted by the vibro-hammer.

The process impacts the aggregate vertically and forces aggregate laterally into the cavity sidewalls resulting in soil improvement, excellent coupling with surrounding soils, and reliable settlement control with superior strength and stiffness. This patented Intermediate Foundation® solution supports shallow foundations and floor slabs; reduces liquefaction potential; and improves stability support of embankments, walls, and tank pads.

Some attributes of the Geopier Impact® System are:

• Economical – 20% to 50% savings
• No excavation or engineered fill
• No structural slabs or grade beams
• No spoils to dispose
• Suitable for sand and fill soils