Excavation Support Systems
Soldier Pile and Lagging
(Steel piles and timber lagging for temporary earth retention)
Secant and Tangent Pile Walls
(Overlapping or touching concrete piles for rigid excavation support)
Sheet Piling
(Interlocking steel sheets driven to retain soil and water)
Bracing and Strutting Systems
(Steel or timber struts to support excavation walls internally)
Excavation Support Systems
When building below ground level, excavation support systems in DR Congo are essential to ensure site safety and soil stability. These engineered solutions support surrounding earth and nearby structures during excavation, preventing collapse and minimizing ground movement.
- Prevents collapse of excavation walls and surrounding ground
- Allows for deeper and safer excavations in urban or confined areas
- Supports adjacent structures and infrastructure during construction
What is Soldier Pile and Lagging?
Soldier Pile and Lagging is a common excavation support technique that involves inserting vertical steel H-piles into the ground and placing horizontal lagging—typically made of timber, concrete, or steel—between them as the excavation progresses. This method is widely used for temporary earth retention, especially in urban areas or confined construction sites. It is known for being cost-effective, relatively quick to install, and well-suited for granular soils and short-term projects.
What is Secant and Tangent Pile Walls?
Secant and Tangent Pile Walls are advanced excavation support systems formed by drilling reinforced concrete piles in close proximity. In secant pile walls, the piles overlap to form a continuous barrier, while in tangent pile walls, the piles are installed just touching each other. These methods create a rigid structure that retains soil and controls groundwater, making them ideal for deep excavations, limited-access sites, and projects requiring high wall strength and minimal deflection.
What is Sheet Piling?
Sheet piling is a method of earth retention and excavation support that involves driving prefabricated, interlocking steel sheets vertically into the ground to form a continuous wall. This system is commonly used in deep excavations, marine structures, and areas with soft or loose soils. Sheet piles provide strong lateral support, resist water infiltration, and are efficient for both temporary and permanent applications in construction.
What are Bracing and Strutting Systems?
Bracing and strutting systems are structural supports used within excavations to maintain the stability of retaining walls and prevent soil collapse. These systems consist of horizontal struts and diagonal or vertical braces that transfer loads from the retaining walls to stable areas, ensuring excavation safety. Commonly used in deep or confined excavations, they provide critical internal support to withstand earth and water pressures during construction.
