Choosing Marine Pile Drivers For Sale

By Deborah Bell


A pile driver refers to a mechanical equipment used for driving piles also called poles into the ground. The poles are usually important for provision of support to structures. The crew that operates the devices is also referred to as pile driver crew. When considering marine pile drivers for sale, one must be vigilant to ensure that they buy a device that is fully functional. This article will present some major types of pole driver to consider.

Devices of different types and models are currently easy to access through the modern market. Powering in modern devices is done through different mechanisms such as steam, hydraulics and diesel as contrasted from what used to happen before when the machines were fist invented. Formerly, powering was done using human and animal labor. The level of safety and efficiency in modern products is very high due to advances in technology. The types of piling driver machines available today are many. They include vertical travel lead systems, diesel hammers, hydraulic hammers, vibratory pile drivers/extractors, and hydraulic press-in systems.

Vibratory pile hammers are composed of counter-rotating eccentric weights. Hydraulic motors act as sources of power in these kinds of drivers. The device produces both vertical and horizontal vibrations, but horizontal vibrations cancel each other out. Vertical vibrations in turn gets transmitted to the piles. Lifting and placement of the machine over piles is done using a crane or extractor. Clamps and bolts are then used to fasten it into position.

One can achieve both extraction and installation of piles using vibratory hammers. For example, pile used to shore temporary foundations are usually recovered using these devices. They are usually fueled using hydraulic fluid, which is delivered to the head through long hoses. There are cases where the device may be connected to a dragline excavator. In such cases, they are powered through the engine of the excavator.

Hydraulic press-ins are among specialty devices in this field. They are used for installing piles using hydraulic rams. This specific type of pole drivers can be used on a wide variety of applications, but it is more preferable in vibration-sensitive applications. Modification can be done to them so that they are able to drive two pairs of piles simultaneously. They find use in both extraction as well as installation applications. Vibration is limited through maintenance of close proximity to the piles when installing or extracting them.

When buying a pole driver, one should do a thorough inspection to ensure that all parts are intact and in good condition. It is best to hire a mechanic to do the inspection process. Not any mechanic should be hired. One must ensure that the individual hired has the necessary expertise in these kinds of devices.

Performing a test project is advisable, especially if the product is second hand. Second hand products may appear to be good while on display, but they cannot do the work they are supposed to do. A good seller should allow the buyer to test and confirm functionality.

It is common to see newly-acquired products breaking down shortly after being purchased. One should protect themselves from such misfortunes by getting a warranty from the seller. A warranty is usually signed by the seller and requires them to either issue replacement or make repairs if breakdowns occur. This is the best way to be safe.




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