History Of Helical Piles

 

Invention Of Helical Piles

The first record of helical piles dates back almost two centuries. The Irish engineer and brickmaker Alexander Mitchell invented the first helical pile in the 1830’s. Mitchell is credited for inventing a range of things, but remains most well-known for using early helical piles to prop up lighthouses. Alexander, who became blind in 1802, used early piles to help erect lighthouses, bridges, and other structures.

The invention of helical piles all those years ago was revolutionary because of the stability it offered to these structures despite being erected on notoriously difficult foundations such as shifting sands and mudbanks. These early helical piles were constructed of either wrought or cast iron. Mitchell went on to patent the helical pile.

Evolution Of Helical Piles

It should come as no surprise that helical piles have come a long way since first being invented in the early 19th century. As the many product variations offered by Magnum Piering should indicate, the technology has come a very long way in the intervening decades. Helical piers now come in a range of sizes and adaptable features. They are often chosen for reasons of convenience and adaptability. But not all helical piles are created equal. There are a lot of helical piles on the market, and it’s not always easy to know which ones are best for the job or why.

Helical piles also offer some of the following benefits:

• Minimal vibration
• Quieter sound
• Ability to be installed with low headroom
• Soil displacement
• Does not produce drill spoils
• Patented Dual Cutting Edge Helix

As you can see, these ain’t your great grandpa’s helical piers.