BACHELOR OF QUANTITY SURVEYING (HONS)
DEPARTMENT OF QUANTITY SURVEYING
FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS REPORT ON PILING
SYSTEM : DISPLACEMENT, REPLACEMENT AND
SHEET PILING
NAME : NUR KAMALIANA IDZATY KAMALUDDIN
MATRIC NUMBER : 85134
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Piling systems are important in various building projects because they provide
fundamental support and stability to structures built on unstable or weak soil conditions.
Displacement, replacement, and sheet piles are the three main types of piling systems used
in construction. Each system has distinct advantages and is chosen depending on the
project's requirements.
Displacement piles are built by driving or screwing them into the ground while displacing
the surrounding dirt. This displacement leaves a void filled with concrete or grout to provide
structural support. In contrast, replacement piles require removing the current dirt and
replacing it with a stable material, such as concrete or steel. These piles are frequently utilized
in regions with poor soil conditions and cannot sufficiently sustain the construction load. Sheet
piles, the third type, comprise interlocking steel or concrete sheets driven into the earth to
form a continuous vertical barrier. They are often used for excavation support, water retention,
and soil erosion prevention.
Understanding the characteristics, design considerations, and construction processes
related to displacement, replacement, and sheet piles is critical for foundation architects and
constructors. This paper aims to provide an overview of each piling system, focusing on its
applications, advantages, boundaries, and relevant construction approaches.
2.0 OVERVIEW
Displacement piles are a form of piling technique that is often utilized in construction
projects. These piles are driven or screwed into the ground, displacing the surrounding dirt.
The displacement generates a void filled with concrete or grout and serves as structural
support for the pile (Fleming et al., 2008). Displacement piles are frequently employed when
the soil conditions are incompatible with other forms of piling techniques. They work well in
deep soils, cohesive soils, and regions with high groundwater levels (Tomlinson & Woodward,
2014). Heavy machinery, like hydraulic hammers or drilling rigs, are often used to install
displacement piles.
Replacement piles, also known as bored piles or drilled shafts, are a form of piling system
widely used in construction. Replacement piles, in contrast to displacement piles, include the
removal of existing soil and replacement with a stable material, such as concrete or steel
(Fleming et al., 2008). This method is generally used in places where the soil conditions are
problematic and cannot sufficiently support the load of a construction. The structure's load is
transferred to a deeper and more stable layer of soil via replacement piles (Tomlinson &
Woodward, 2014). Replacement piles are normally installed by drilling a hole into the earth,
removing the dirt, and then putting and compacting the replacement material.
Sheet piles are a versatile form of piling system that can be implemented for various
applications in construction projects. They comprise interlocking steel or concrete
components driven into the ground to form a continuous vertical barrier (Fleming et al., 2008).
Sheet piles are frequently used for excavation support, retaining walls, coastline
constructions, and soil erosion prevention. Their interlocking construction simplifies
installation while resisting lateral soil pressure and water (Tomlinson & Woodward, 2014).
Depending on the soil and site circumstances, sheet piles can be erected with vibratory
hammers or hydraulic presses.
3.0 ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF EACH PILING METHOD
3.1 DISPLACEMENT PILING
3.1.1 Advantages of Displacement Pile
In construction projects, displacement piles provide substantial benefits. One
significant advantage is their efficient load transfer capabilities. During installation, the
pile displaces the surrounding soil, forming a compacted zone that improves load-
bearing capacity and lowers stress concentrations. Displacement piles allow efficient
load distribution from the structure to the underlying soil (M. J. Tomlinson & Boorman,
2001). Displacement piles are versatile and can be used in various soil types. They
are suitable for installation in difficult ground circumstances such as high groundwater
levels, cohesive soils, and dense soils. Unlike other piling techniques, displacement
piles are not dependent on the load-bearing capability of the ground, giving a reliable
foundation solution independent of soil conditions (Fleming et al., 2008).
3.1.2 Disadvantages of Displacement Pile
Despite their benefits, displacement piles have several drawbacks that should be
considered in construction projects. These include soil disturbance and heave and
challenges with accurately aligning piles. Another issue with displacement piles is soil
disturbance and heave. The displacement process might affect the soil around the
pile, resulting in heave or settlement. Water movement during pile construction can
cause heave in cohesive soils, while loose or granular soils can settle (M. J. Tomlinson
& Boorman, 2001). Proper site inspection and analysis are required to assess the
possibility of soil disturbance and heave and to utilize appropriate design and
construction procedures to limit their effects. Furthermore, precise pile alignment
during installation can be difficult with displacement piles, particularly in rocky or
obstruction-prone ground conditions. Misalignment can lower load transfer efficiency
and structural issues (Atkinson, 2007). Careful planning, monitoring, and applying
appropriate procedures and equipment are required to address alignment difficulties.
3.2 REPLACEMENT PILING
3.2.1 Advantages of Replacement Pile
Replacement piles, also known as bored piles or drilled shafts, provide multiple
advantages in construction projects. For starters, they have a better load-carrying
capacity than other piling techniques. Replacement piles offer solid foundations
capable of supporting enormous loads by removing the current soil and replacing it
with a stable material such as concrete or steel (Fleming et al., 2015). Second,
replacement piles are adaptable and can be erected in various soil conditions,
including cohesive soils, non-cohesive soils, and groundwater locations. They are
versatile and effective because they may be tailored to individual soil conditions (Das
& Sivakugan, 2018).
3.2.2 Disadvantages of Replacement Pile
While replacement piles have advantages, they also have challenges. One
disadvantage is the complexity and cost of installation. The method of installing
replacement piles is more complex and time-consuming when compared to other piling
technologies. It entails drilling into the earth, removing the current soil, and replacing
it with the material of choice. This intricacy raises the project's overall cost (Das &
Sivakugan, 2018). Another downside of replacement piles is their restricted access.
They may be difficult to install in places with restricted access or tight spaces. The
equipment needed to drill and install replacement piles is frequently massive and may
not be suited for limited regions. This accessibility limitation might cause logistical
issues and necessitate alternative piling methods in some scenarios (Fleming et al.,
2015).
3.3 SHEET PILING
3.3.1 Advantages of Sheet Pile
Sheet piles are an efficient and cost-effective way to retain earth or water, endure
high lateral pressures, and prevent soil erosion (Drake, 2016). They are versatile and
adaptable to varied soil conditions, making them suited for temporary and permanent
uses (Engineer, 2007). Sheet piles can be installed quickly by vibrating or pressing
them into the ground, which decreases project time and labour costs (Long, 2001).
Sheet piles are a preferred alternative for efficient retention, adaptability, and time
efficiency in building projects because of these benefits.
3.3.2 Disadvantages of Sheet Pile
Sheet piles have various drawbacks that should be considered in building projects.
Compared to other piling systems, they have a limited load-carrying capability because
they are primarily designed to resist lateral forces rather than vertical loads, which may
necessitate additional measures to support significant vertical loads (Engineer, 2007).
Another issue is corrosion, as sheet piles are exposed to ambient conditions and can
corrode if not appropriately protected. Sheet piles can shorten their lifespan and
compromise their structural integrity, demanding maintenance and preventative
measures (Drake, 2016). Sheet piles can generate significant noise and vibrations
during installation, potentially disrupting surrounding structures or residents. In order
to alleviate these effects, proper mitigation measures should be applied (Engineer,
2007).
4.0 APPLICATION AREA AND SUITABILITY OF EACH PILING METHOD
4.1 Displacement Pile
Displacement piles are adaptable foundation elements that can be used for various
applications. They can be employed in cohesive soils like clay and non-cohesive soils like
sand (Pandya & Desai, 2021). Furthermore, displacement piles are advantageous in
locations with restricted headroom or access since they require little overhead space to
install (Indeed Editorial Team, 2022). Displacement piles are also well-suited for projects in
noise-restricted locations because they make less noise during installation than other
methods (Indeed Editorial Team, 2022). These benefits make displacement piles an
effective option in construction. However, site-specific conditions and engineering needs
must be considered for proper implementation. In order to ensure the proper application of
displacement piles in building projects, thorough geotechnical investigations and design
assessments are required.
4.2 Replacement Pile
Replacement piles, often called bored piles, are frequently used in building
foundations to transfer structural loads to soil or rock strata with adequate bearing capacity
and settling characteristics (Facilitator, 2023). They are appropriate for cohesive soils like
clay and non-cohesive soils like sand (Pandya & Desai, 2021). Because they may be built
to absorb and regulate groundwater during construction, replacement piles are especially
beneficial in places with high groundwater levels. Because of their load-bearing capacity
and ability to withstand vertical and lateral stresses, they are a dependable solution for
projects with high load requirements. Replacement piles' adaptability and strength make
them suited for a wide range of applications in residential, commercial, and industrial
construction.
4.3 Sheet Pile
Sheet piles are a versatile piling method used in cohesive and non-cohesive soils
(Pandya & Desai, 2021). They are especially effective in areas where excavation could be
more practical and possible (Patil, 2021). Sheet piles are an efficient way to build retaining
walls, cofferdams, bulkheads, and other structures that require earth retention and
groundwater control. They are frequently employed to help in excavations for below-grade
parking complexes, basements, pump houses, and foundations (Patil, 2021). Sheet piles
are a solid solution for various building projects due to their strength and stability. The
surrounding soil is kept by erecting sheet piles, giving a safe and stable working
environment.
5.0 COST COMPARISON OF THREE PILING METHODS (DISPLACEMENT,
REPLACEMENT, AND SHEET PILE) AND THE IMPACT ON THE PROJECT BUDGET
The cost comparison of three piling methods, namely displacement piles, replacement
piles, and sheet piles, has the potential to affect project budgets significantly. Unlike non-
displacement piles, displacement piles, particularly conventional-driven precast concrete
piles, are often less expensive and faster to install (Lee, 2023). The cost of displacement piles
varies depending on soil conditions, pile length, and diameter. Furthermore, using proper pile
testing procedures can help validate the pile's strength and save costs by allowing for lower
safety factors on the pile's capacity (Suckling, 2021). Replacement piles, often bored piles,
are a common type of foundation construction. The price of replacement piles varies
depending on soil conditions, pile length, and diameter (Lee, 2023). While replacement piles
are more time-consuming and costly than displacement piles, they may be necessary under
certain soil and load-bearing conditions.
Sheet piles come in several materials, including steel and vinyl, influencing their price.
Factors such as length, thickness, and installation method all impact the overall cost (Kwon &
Kang, 2019). Vinyl sheet piles, such as the GW-610/7.2, can be less expensive than steel
sheet piles (The Pietrucha Group, n.d.). Specifying steel sheet piling and providing accurate
information to bidders will help control costs. In summary, each piling method's cost is
impacted by soil conditions, pile length, diameter, material type, thickness, and installation
method. Displacement piles are often less expensive and faster to install, although
replacement heaps and sheet piles have different costs depending on project requirements.
Proper pile testing procedures and specifications can help optimize costs and ensure cost-
effective piling solutions for a project. Consultation with local contractors or suppliers is
encouraged for more accurate pricing estimates.
6.0 TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENT AND INNOVATION
Recent breakthroughs in technology and innovation have resulted in substantial
advancements in piling systems, improving installation methods and performance. These
advancements seek to improve piling systems' efficiency, dependability, and versatility in
various soil and ground situations.
6.1 DISPLACEMENT PILE
The use of cast-in-place drilling displacement piles is one significant innovation.
During the drilling operation, this approach employs specifically designed displacement tools.
These tools push the soil outward, creating a more compact and stable concrete column.
Displacement piles eliminate the requirement for spoils disposal and improve pile installation
efficiency (Basu et al., 2010). Another notable improvement is the invention of full
displacement pile installation. This method uses a rotary drilling rig and a boring displacement
tool to manufacture bored cast in-situ concrete piles without removing soil. This technology
provides a cost-effective and time-efficient option for displacement pile installation, decreasing
construction time and soil disturbance. (Aarsleff Ground Engineering Ltd, 2020). Steel drilled
displacement piles, or M-Piles, are another novel approach. These piles are cast-in-place and
require little to no soil removal. The drilling tool radially displaces soil into the surrounding
formation, improving ground conditions and acting as a foundation system. M-Piles are useful
for ground and structural improvement (Marinucci & Wilson, 2018).
6.2 REPLACEMENT PILE
The use of helical piles is one important innovation. These piles are fitted using a hydraulic
motor that rotates them into the ground and has helical-shaped plates or "screws" throughout
their length. Helical piles have various advantages, including reduced noise and vibration
during installation, making them acceptable for sites with noise and vibration limits. They also
require less installation equipment, making them excellent for areas with limited space (Bruce,
2021). Aside from helical piles, several novel technologies have been developed to improve
the load-bearing capability of reinforced concrete piles. These technologies include high-
strength materials, enhanced pile design, and advanced monitoring systems. Ultra-high-
performance concrete (UHPC) and other high-strength materials improve the strength and
endurance of replacement piles. Improved pile design approaches like tapered or pre-
stressed piles enable better load distribution and structural performance. Real-time load
monitoring and integrity testing, for example, give crucial data on pile performance and allow
for a prompt response if any concerns occur (Kocherzhenko et al., 2021).
6.3 SHEET PILE
As a breakthrough in sheet pile installation, silent piling techniques have arisen. This
technique, known as "pitch and drive," entails putting each sheet pile to the design pile toe
level without vibration. Silent piling greatly decreases noise and disturbance to the
surrounding area by removing vibration, making it well-suited for projects in noise-sensitive
locations (Sheet Piling (UK) Ltd, 2021). Furthermore, advances in computing technology have
made it easier to use numerical approaches in the design and analysis of sheet pile walls.
These numerical approaches use mathematical models to simulate the behavior of sheet pile
constructions and assess numerous design variables. They provide a cost-effective and
efficient method for evaluating sheet pile walls' stability, load-bearing capacity, and other
critical performance elements (Xing et al., 2022).
Alternative pile-sheet wall layouts have also been investigated to improve stability and
eliminate dangers associated with artificial dig-holes. One such investigation focuses on
substituting rectangular piles in conventional pile-sheet wall designs with circular piles. This
alternate configuration improves load-bearing capacity, stability, and construction hazards,
making it a dependable and efficient retaining form (Xing et al., 2022). Vinyl sheet piles are
becoming a low-cost alternative to traditional steel sheet piles. Vinyl sheet piles have
advantages such as lower material prices, lighter weight, and ease of installation. They are
especially useful in projects where cost-effectiveness is a top goal without sacrificing
performance (The Pietrucha Group, n.d.).
7.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND SUSTAINABILITY OF PILING METHOD
7.1 DISPLACEMENT PILE
Displacement piles, frequently used in buildings, may have environmental consequences
that should be considered for sustainable practices. Displacement piles can disturb soil during
installation, resulting in compaction and changes in soil structure, harming soil health and
fertility (Historic England, 2019). Heavy machinery used in the installation procedure can add
to the noise and air pollution, upsetting nearby residents and negatively impacting air quality
(Misra & Basu, 2011). Also, fully displaced piles can cause significant pressures and
deformations in the surrounding soil, potentially causing settlement concerns and structural
damage (Kabeta, 2023). Life cycle assessments and sustainability criteria have been created
to promote sustainable practices and measure the environmental impact of piling foundations.
These assessments provide useful information about the overall environmental impact of
various pile types, such as drilled shafts and driven concrete piles (Misra & Basu, 2011).
Construction practices can be optimized to minimize environmental effects by considering
these sustainability measures and indicators. Implementing strategies to limit soil disturbance,
employing equipment with lower noise and emissions, and closely monitoring the installation
process to mitigate stress and deformation in the surrounding soil may all be part of this.
7.2 REPLACEMENT PILE
Because of the excavation procedure required, replacement piles, also known as bored
piles, can have environmental consequences. Soil removal during borehole drilling can disrupt
the surrounding environment and impact natural habitat and flora. This soil removal can
potentially cause ecological imbalances and kill microorganisms (Misra & Basu, 2011).
Regarding sustainability, replacement piles are more time-consuming and costly than
displacement piles. The excavating process necessitates more resources and may result in a
bigger carbon footprint. Given these considerations, it is critical to carefully examine the
environmental impact and long-term viability of replacement pile installations. To improve
sustainability, methods such as good soil management and restoration practices can be
implemented to reduce the ecological effects of soil removal.
Moreover, optimizing construction practices and using alternative foundation systems
where available can assist in lessening the environmental impact of replacement piles.
Sustainable construction practices must weigh the benefits of replacing piles against their
possible environmental impact. The sustainability of replacement pile installations can be
improved by using environmentally sensitive measures such as minimizing soil disturbance
and optimizing resource utilization.
7.3 SHEET PILE
Using sheet piling in construction can have environmental consequences that must
be considered for long-term practices. Sheet piles can disturb soil during installation,
resulting in compaction and changes in soil structure. Sheet piles can harm soil health,
fertility, plants, and ecosystems (Historic England, 2019). In addition, heavy gear used
during sheet pile placement can contribute to noise and air pollution. Noise pollution can
harm surrounding populations and wildlife, while air pollution from machinery emissions
can harm air quality and human health (Misra & Basu, 2011). In order to improve
sustainability, life cycle analysis for sheet pile walls was used to produce sustainability
metrics and environmental effect indicators. These evaluations aid in determining the
overall environmental footprint of sheet piling installations and guide decision-making for
sustainable design and construction practices (Kabeta, 2023).In order to minimize the
environmental impact, measures can be done to decrease soil disturbance during sheet
pile installation. Techniques that reduce compaction and retain soil structure can help to
safeguard soil health. Using low-emission equipment and implementing noise reduction
measures can also help to reduce the environmental impact during installation.
4.0 CONCLUSION
Finally, piling systems are critical in giving support and stability to structures built on weak
or unstable soil. The three basic types of piling methods used in construction are
displacement, replacement, and sheet piles, each having its own set of pros and
disadvantages. The piling method chosen is determined by criteria like as soil conditions, load
requirements, project limits, and budget. To ensure the proper selection and execution of
piling systems, detailed geotechnical investigations and design assessments are required. To
summarize, understanding the properties, benefits, and limitations of displacement,
replacement, and sheet piles is critical for architects and foundation designers. The most
appropriate piling method for a stable and cost-effective foundation for building projects can
be selected by taking into account the unique project requirements, soil conditions, and
technical improvements.
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