Applications
Pipelines & Conveyors
Overland pipelines and conveyors that traverse over large areas typically encounter differing terrain and ground conditions.
Design loads are usually minimal except where pipelines and conveyors change directions or where transfer and loading towers are part of the conveyor system. Where a pipeline is of large diameter significant changes in direction can result in horizontal hydraulic loads being applied to the line. Conveyor transfer towers can develop significant overturning moments which also need to be catered for. These loads need to be transferred back down into the ground.
The fact that screwpiles perform exceptionally well in both tension and compression gives design engineers the flexibility to transfer large loads into the ground quickly and efficiently.
Pipelines
Overland pipelines typically require large numbers of foundations so the foundation solution needs to be economical.
Where pipelines traverse over creeks and river crossings screwpiles can bridge over the obstruction as the pier element of a screwpile can be increased during manufacture to allow for the differing gradients, or an alternative is to make the pier elements telescopic.
Large diameter pipelines require a dual pedistal screwpile configuration whilst smaller pipelines can be accommodated on a single pedistal. The overall foundation design needs to cater for pipeline expansion and contraction so the mounting interface must allow for some horizontal movement.
Conveyors & Trestles
Overland conveyors can have similar obsticles to pipelines. In addition conveyors with roof enclosures in cyclonic areas introduce uplift forces and transfer towers develop overturning moment which magnify the load cases for the foundation system.
Option exist for direct connection via the screwpiles pier element or via another interface such as a steel or concrete beam in accordance with the conveyors overall design and concept.
For either application the use of excavator based installation equipment provides for great onsite maneuverability and increased speed over conventional foundation systems.
