Find the Best Piling Rig Hire Near You

Piling is the process of driving or boring pile foundations into the ground beneath a building that is under construction. These piles transfer loads from the structure to the ground, helping to support it. Pile foundations are often used where the ground is too weak to underpin the structure.

Pile foundations are also required in places where there is a risk of soil erosion around the structure, as shallow foundations may not be able to withstand this. Additionally, when there are deep trench foundations from a prior structure, which can be very expensive to remove, piling might be the best solution.

Piling is the process of drilling foundations through the ground to provide more structural strength to the weak soil underneath.

Pile foundations are essential in constructing structures that require strong and stable support. These foundations are necessary for structures built on weak or unstable soil, as they transfer the structure's weight to a more stable layer of soil or rock.

Throughout history, the evolution of piling machines has seen various types emerge, each adapted to specific construction needs. Today, the most commonly used types include diesel hammers, vertical travel lead systems, hydraulic hammers, hydraulic press-ins, and vibratory pile drivers/extractors.

A piling rig is a specialised machine used to install piles into the ground for building foundations or retaining structures. It provides the necessary force, precision, and depth control to drill, drive, or screw piles depending on the chosen piling method.

Piling rigs vary in type and size, including:

• Bored/drilled rigs: Equipped with augers or rotary heads to drill holes for concrete or steel piles.
• Driven pile rigs: Use hammers or vibratory systems to drive precast concrete, steel, or timber piles.
• Mini or mobile rigs: Compact units for confined sites or underpinning works.

These rigs are essential for accurate pile installation, ensuring structural stability and compliance with engineering specifications.

Several types of piling rigs are available, chosen based on pile type, soil conditions, and site requirements:

• Bored (drilled) piling rigs: Use augers or rotary heads to drill holes for in-situ concrete or steel piles; ideal for variable soils and high-load projects.
• Driven piling rigs: Equipped with hammers or vibratory systems to drive precast concrete, steel, or timber piles; suitable for firm soils and repetitive installations.
• Hydraulic piling rigs: Offer precise control and high force, often used for micro-piles, mini-piles, or restricted-access sites.
• Crawler-mounted rigs: Heavy-duty rigs for large civil, industrial, or mining projects, providing mobility and stability on rough terrain.
• Mobile or truck-mounted rigs: Compact units for smaller sites, urban areas, or underpinning works where space is limited.

The choice of rig depends on pile type, depth, soil conditions, site accessibility, and project scale.

Site access for piling rigs depends on the size and type of rig as well as the piling method:

• Large crawler-mounted or heavy-duty rigs: Require firm, level ground with enough space to manoeuvre, turn, and operate safely. Access roads may need reinforcement for weight-bearing.
• Truck-mounted or mobile rigs: Need narrower or moderately firm access paths and can often operate in more confined or urban sites.
• Mini or hydraulic rigs: Can work in tight or restricted areas, including inside buildings for underpinning or small-scale civil works.

Additional considerations include overhead clearances, turning radii, and proximity to existing structures, ensuring safe and efficient operation while minimising site disruption.