A pile embankment for roads is a construction technique that involves the use of piles or columns to support and stabilize road embankments, particularly in areas with weak or unstable soils. The process typically includes driving piles into the ground to create a strong foundation, which helps prevent settling and damage to the road caused by soil movement or subsidence. This method is employed to ensure the durability and longevity of road structures, especially in challenging or environmentally sensitive terrain.
The initial phase involves thorough site clearance, encompassing the removal of vegetation such as trees and shrubs, followed by the extraction of roots, stumps, and organic matter. This process aims to prevent potential ground irregularities and voids.
All cleared materials are then meticulously transported and disposed of in adherence to local environmental regulations. Subsequently, a meticulous assessment of the exposed ground conditions is conducted to inform the design and methodology for the subsequent pile installation and embankment construction stages.
A layer of granular material may be placed and compacted to create a stable working platform for heavy machinery.
Installation of Piles:
Driving piles according to the design specifications to support the embankment load.
Layering of Base Material:
After pile installation, base materials are layered between the piles. This could include granular fill, crushed stone, or other specified materials that distribute loads and provide drainage.
Compaction:
Each layer of base material is compacted to achieve the required density and strength specifications. Proper compaction is crucial to minimize settlement and ensure long-term stability.
Above the base layers, the sub-grade layer forms the final shaping before the pavement structure is applied.
This involves :
Material Placement:
Placing materials for the sub-grade layer, which may be a mix of natural soil and aggregate designed to support the pavement layers.
Compaction:
Compacting the sub-grade to a uniform density across the embankment. The compaction level must meet the specifications for supporting the intended road use and traffic loads.
Leveling and Grading:
Ensuring the sub-grade surface is leveled and graded to the correct profile as per the design. This ensures proper drainage and road alignment.
