Press-in Piling Survey in Ukraine

Abstract

Data related to the piling construction market in Ukraine are analyzed. Areas and projects that are suitable for Press-In Method implementation are considered. At the Ukrainian construction market both imported machines and equipment of local production are in operation. Ukrainian piling contractors try to diversify their participation in the construction market. Thus, some companies being before dedicated only to civil engineering consider their possible involvement in port, offshore and coastal projects. In this connection, needs of more universal for both civil and marine engineering and more powerful press-in equipment are increased to provide pressing-in piles of larger diameter and length than before. To date, such demands are not satisfied and press-in machines usually involved in the Ukrainian construction market have some essential limitations of application such as value of the developed press-in load; piles section sizes; piles length; ancillary equipment. Some other limitations of mentioned equipment in the Ukrainian market are: low performance, bulky and unhandiness stipulated by too large dimensions; inconvenience of use in the case of restricted areas; problems of use at the maritime construction sites and other waterfront areas. This paper will be discussing the requirements of the actual national design and construction guidelines. Furthermore, recommendations on Press-In technologies development in Ukraine are also presented.