Understanding Steel Sheet Piling Temporary Works
Temporary works in steel piling refer to sheet pile retaining walls that provide structural support for short to medium-term applications, with the intention of removal once their purpose has been served. These structures are crucial in construction projects where temporary earth retention or water exclusion is required.
Unlike concrete, steel piles offer comparatively significant sustainability benefits, as they can be fully recycled. This can be achieved either through direct reuse on another project or by melting down the steel and reforming it into new beams or piles, making them an environmentally responsible choice.
Applications of Steel Sheet Piling Temporary Works
One of the most common examples of temporary works is a steel sheet piled cofferdam. This method is widely used in construction projects where a dry and stable work environment is required below ground level. The process involves:
- Sheet pile installation – Steel sheet piles can be either driven or pressed into the ground to create a secure barrier; the installation technique is determined by a variety of factors, including ground conditions, location and environmental constraints.
- Excavation – The enclosed area is internally excavated to allow for the construction of underground structures or other necessary works.
- Completion and backfilling – Once the required construction is completed, the area is backfilled up to ground level.
- Pile extraction – The sheet piles are removed, making way for the final project stage without leaving permanent structures behind.
Temporary Sheet Pile Extraction Methods
The removal of temporary sheet piles, known as extraction or ‘pulling,’ can be carried out using a choice of techniques:
Silent Extraction – The Giken Silent Piler offers vibration-free removal, making it ideal for sensitive locations such as towns and city centres, schools, and hospitals, where noise and ground disturbance must be minimised.
Vibratory Extraction – Using a vibratory attachment fitted to a leader rig or a Movax excavator, piles are loosened and efficiently withdrawn.
Why Choose Steel Sheet Piling for Temporary Works?
- Cost-effective – Temporary sheet piling can be reused multiple times, reducing material costs.
- Environmentally friendly – Fully recyclable, minimising waste and carbon footprint.
- Quick installation and removal – Allows for efficient project timelines with minimal disruption.
- Versatile applications – Suitable for various construction environments, including deep excavations, waterfront projects, and urban settings.
Why Choose Ivor King?
Ivor King has over 50 years of experience in steel sheet piling, we specialise in providing innovative and bespoke piling solutions.
Take a look at the range of Steel Piling Solutions we can design and install, and get in touch with our knowledgeable and friendly team to discuss how we can help. Whatever your piling project, we’re your people.
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Temporary (or enabling) works are structures or systems used to support, protect or enable construction activities during a project. In piling, this can include temporary sheet pile retaining walls, cofferdams, bracing systems and other forms of excavation support. They are generally designed to remain in place only for as long as they are required before being removed or replaced by the permanent works.
Temporary sheet piles are commonly used to provide earth retention and water exclusion during construction, forming a controlled environment for construction to happen below ground level. Applications include supporting deep excavations, forming cofferdams, protecting existing structures and providing temporary retaining walls. Once the permanent works are complete, sheet piles can be extracted and potentially reused.
Not necessarily. The required support depends on factors including excavation depth, ground conditions, water levels and loading behind the wall. Depending on the design, temporary sheet pile walls may be self-supporting or may require waling beams or internal bracing systems.
Yes. One of the key advantages of using steel sheet piles for temporary works is that they can be extracted once they are no longer required. Extraction can be carried out using vibratory equipment or silent, vibration-free systems such as GIKEN technology, depending on the site conditions and environmental constraints.
Yes. Provided the piles remain in suitable condition following extraction, they can be reused on subsequent projects. This can reduce material requirements, waste and the environmental impact associated with temporary works. Ivor King maintains more than 3,000 tonnes of U and Z sheet piles in stock for hire and sale.
The installation method depends on the ground conditions, site constraints, required pile depth and surrounding environment. Sheet piles can be installed using vibratory excavator-mounted equipment (Movax), Telescopic Leader Rigs or GIKEN silent piling hydraulic presses. The appropriate method is considered as part of the design and planning process.
Yes. Where conventional piling methods are unsuitable because of sensitive structures, neighbouring properties or other environmental constraints, silent and vibration-free pressing systems such as GIKEN can be considered. These systems can be particularly useful in built-up or sensitive locations.
Useful information includes the proposed excavation depth and layout, ground investigation information, water levels, surrounding structures and services, anticipated loads, site access and the construction programme. Early involvement allows the piling solution and installation method to be considered alongside the wider temporary and permanent works design.
Sheet Pile Retaining Walls
The quick and easy solution that eliminates the need for temporary earthworks support.
Sheet Pile Basements
Maximise your basement footprint with a cost effective watertight construction solution.
Cofferdams
Allows excavation and construction in otherwise poor working environments
Temporary Sheet Pile Walls
Allowing earthworks to take place, sheet piles can be re-used on project completion
Steel Bearing Pile Foundations
Providing excellent load and resistance and high strength in compression and tension
Tied Walls & Anchorage Systems
Sheet pile walls can be strengthened using anchorage systems to ensure the stability of retaining structures
Inland Waterways & Marine Piling Solutions
Flood defences and water retention systems, including rivers, canals, harbour and dock wall stabilisations, marinas and reservoirs
Sheet Pile Hire & Sales Our dedicated hire and sales division is on hand to support all your temporary and permanent sheet pile needs
