Bored piles, also known as caissons, and driven piles are both foundation elements used for supporting a structure. Both are deep foundations, but there are a few differences between them that you should be aware of. Let’s take a look at the differences between bored piles and driven piles, and the best circumstances for each.
What is a Bored Pile?
A bored pile is a form of deep foundation that is constructed by drilling or boring a hole in the ground. Bored piles are generally constructed using a rotary drill, which removes soil and rocks from the ground to create a cylindrical shape. It is then filled with concrete and reinforced with steel bars. Bored piles are typically used to support large structures like bridges, skyscrapers, and dams.
What is a Driven Pile?
A driven pile is a form of deep foundation that is constructed by driving a steel or precast concrete pile into the ground. It is made up of a pile, a pile cap, and a pile shoe. The pile is driven into the ground using a pile hammer, which exerts a large amount of force to drive the pile into the ground. The pile cap is used to transmit the load from the structure onto the pile. The pile shoe is used to protect the pile from damage caused by the pile hammer.
Bored Pile vs Driven Pile: How Do They Differ?
The main difference between bored piles and driven piles is the way they are constructed. Bored piles are constructed by drilling or boring a hole in the ground, while driven piles are constructed by driving a steel or precast concrete pile into the ground. Additionally, bored piles are typically used to support large structures, while driven piles are typically used to support smaller structures.
Bored piles are more expensive to construct than driven piles, but they are more stable and have a higher load-bearing capacity. Bored piles can also be constructed in areas with limited access and in areas with poor soil conditions. Driven piles are less expensive to construct than bored piles, but they are less stable and have a lower load-bearing capacity. Driven piles are typically used in areas with good soil conditions and in areas with easy access.
When To Use Bored Piles and When To Use Driven Piles
When deciding between bored piles and driven piles, there are a few factors to consider. First, consider the soil conditions. If there are poor soil conditions or limited access, bored piles may be the best option. If the soil conditions are good and there is easy access, then driven piles may be the best option. Also, consider the size and type of structure being supported. Bored piles are typically used to support large structures, while driven piles are typically used to support smaller structures.
Finally, consider the budget. Bored piles are more expensive to construct than driven piles, so if budget is an issue, then driven piles may be the better option. However, if stability and load-bearing capacity are more important, then bored piles may be the better option.
Conclusion
Bored piles and driven piles are both forms of deep foundation used for supporting a structure. The main difference between them is the way they are constructed and the type of structures they are used to support. Bored piles are typically used to support large structures, while driven piles are typically used to support smaller structures. Additionally, bored piles are more expensive to construct than driven piles, but they are more stable and have a higher load-bearing capacity. When deciding between bored piles and driven piles, consider the soil conditions, the size and type of structure being supported, and the budget.
