What are pile drivers, and how do they work? In this article, we’ll look at the importance of pile driving for building a foundation on a construction site. Use this information to create a sturdy structure and perform under the best practices.

A pile driver is much like a hammer and nail in that the equipment pounds piling material into the ground to support a foundation. Often, a building is too heavy for the soil underneath and therefore needs extra support for the foundation not to collapse. Pile drivers help with building piers, bridges, and other structures that need the support of poles.

Common pile driving materials include wood, solid steel, and tubular steel. The pile drivers push these materials underwater, underground, or partially underground. The construction team usually stops driving the material into the ground once the construction team reaches a sturdy bedrock beneath the surface.

There are a few different pile drivers that are available on the market. Each machine performs the same duties differently. The two main types of pile drivers are the traditional and the vibratory types.

Traditional pile drivers receive power through hydraulics, steam, or diesel. The driver uses a weight above the pile that releases and continually hits the pile material into the ground. Gravity is the primary force in driving the pile further into the ground.

Vibratory pile drivers spin counterweights to create a vibration that hammers the material down. The constant vibration pounds the material into the ground at higher speeds. Vibratory drivers can also extract old piles out of the earth for replacement.

Can you answer the question, “What are pile drivers, and how do they work?” Whether your business needs a pile driver or is looking for one to rent, this machine is effective in helping create a sturdy foundation. Consider the benefits of each type of pile driver to get the job done right the first time.