vibratory hammers:

Mississippi Valley Equipment Co.Mississippi Valley Equipment Co.

1198 Pershall Road1198 Pershall RoadSt. Louis, MO 63137St. Louis, MO 63137Toll Free: 1-800-325-8001Toll Free: 1-800-325-8001Website: www.mve-stl.comWebsite: www.mve-stl.com

Mississippi Valley Equipment Company Office

A Winning Team!!A Winning Team!!

Mississippi Valley Equipment Co.Mississippi Valley Equipment Co.

Mississippi Valley Equipment was founded Mississippi Valley Equipment was founded in St. Louis, MO in 1933in St. Louis, MO in 1933

We are a distributor of MKT Pile Driving and We are a distributor of MKT Pile Driving and Drilling Equipment: vibratory hammers, Drilling Equipment: vibratory hammers, hydraulic augers, hydraulic impact hydraulic augers, hydraulic impact hammers, air hammers, leads, accessories, hammers, air hammers, leads, accessories, SPI diesel hammers, and custom / design SPI diesel hammers, and custom / design manufacturing, etc.manufacturing, etc.

11.) 3 Main Components of a .) 3 Main Components of a vibratory driver / extractor systemvibratory driver / extractor system

1.) Diesel-driven 1.) Diesel-driven hydraulic power unit hydraulic power unit

MKT HP-365 power unit

3 Main Components of a vibratory 3 Main Components of a vibratory driver / extractor system (cont.):driver / extractor system (cont.):

2.) Pressure-rated 2.) Pressure-rated hydraulic hose bundlehydraulic hose bundle

3 Main components of a vibratory 3 Main components of a vibratory driver / extractor system (cont.):driver / extractor system (cont.):

3.) Exciter case fitted 3.) Exciter case fitted w/ suspension and w/ suspension and hydraulic clamp hydraulic clamp assemblies to fit assemblies to fit different applicationsdifferent applications

MKT V-22 w/ caisson beam

2.) How a hydraulic vibratory driver / 2.) How a hydraulic vibratory driver / extractor system works:extractor system works:

A.) A vibratory hammer A.) A vibratory hammer drives a pile through a drives a pile through a combination of driving combination of driving force, frequency, force, frequency, amplitude, and free-amplitude, and free-hanging weight. The hanging weight. The driving force of a hammer driving force of a hammer is determined by it’s is determined by it’s eccentric moment & eccentric moment & steady-state frequency.steady-state frequency.

MKT V-52 w/ caisson beam

How a vibratory driver / extractor How a vibratory driver / extractor system works (cont.):system works (cont.):

Eccentric Moment – term used to describe the effectiveness of a Eccentric Moment – term used to describe the effectiveness of a force to produce rotation about an axis. It is the value in inch-force to produce rotation about an axis. It is the value in inch-pounds equal to the weight of the eccentric multiplied by the pounds equal to the weight of the eccentric multiplied by the distance from the center-line of gravity to the center-line of distance from the center-line of gravity to the center-line of rotation, then multiplied by the total number of eccentrics used rotation, then multiplied by the total number of eccentrics used in the machine.in the machine.


The size of the eccentric moment affects the The size of the eccentric moment affects the driving force, attainable amplitude, operating driving force, attainable amplitude, operating frequency, and power requirements for the frequency, and power requirements for the hammerhammer

Eccentric moment = distance from center line Eccentric moment = distance from center line of gravity to center line of rotation, times of gravity to center line of rotation, times total # of eccentrics in machinetotal # of eccentrics in machine


Amplitude – the vertical movement of the Amplitude – the vertical movement of the total vibrating system, and the direct result total vibrating system, and the direct result of the applied force generated by the of the applied force generated by the rotating eccentricsrotating eccentrics

a.) amplitude = (a.) amplitude = (eccentric moment)eccentric moment) (vibrating mass) X 2(vibrating mass) X 2 b.) the “vibrating mass” consists of the b.) the “vibrating mass” consists of the

weight of the hammer + the total pile weightweight of the hammer + the total pile weight


Amplitude (cont.)Amplitude (cont.) Example: AN MKT V-22 vibratory driver / extractor is driving 40’ PZ-Example: AN MKT V-22 vibratory driver / extractor is driving 40’ PZ-

27 sheet pile: What amplitude can the contractor expect?27 sheet pile: What amplitude can the contractor expect?

PZ-27 = 40.5 lbs/ft x 40’ (sheet length) = 1,620lbs x 2 (driven in pairs) PZ-27 = 40.5 lbs/ft x 40’ (sheet length) = 1,620lbs x 2 (driven in pairs) = 3,240 (total weight of pair)= 3,240 (total weight of pair)

2,600 in/lbs (eccentric moment)2,600 in/lbs (eccentric moment)8,750 (V-22 weight) + 3,240 (pile weight) X 28,750 (V-22 weight) + 3,240 (pile weight) X 2

(2,600)(2,600)(11,990) X 2 = (11,990) X 2 =

(.216) x 2 = .432 amplitude, or 7/16” amplitude(.216) x 2 = .432 amplitude, or 7/16” amplitude


Amplitude (cont.)Amplitude (cont.) As a rule of thumb, for effective driving the As a rule of thumb, for effective driving the

hammer must have amplitude of equal to or hammer must have amplitude of equal to or greater than ¼”greater than ¼”

Generally speaking, the higher the amplitude, the Generally speaking, the higher the amplitude, the more effective the hammer will be at driving pile in more effective the hammer will be at driving pile in soils considered marginal to vibratory drivingsoils considered marginal to vibratory driving

Higher amplitudes may also increase risk of Higher amplitudes may also increase risk of damage to adjacent structures. Be sure to have damage to adjacent structures. Be sure to have trained professionals carefully evaluate soils & trained professionals carefully evaluate soils & project informationproject information


Frequency = the number of cycles, or Frequency = the number of cycles, or rotations per minute the system can achieve rotations per minute the system can achieve while free-hangingwhile free-hanging

Steady-State Frequency = the number of Steady-State Frequency = the number of cycles per minute the system can achieve cycles per minute the system can achieve while attached to a pile and introduced to while attached to a pile and introduced to the dampening characteristics of the soil the dampening characteristics of the soil being penetratedbeing penetrated


Free-hanging weight – the Free-hanging weight – the overall weight of the overall weight of the hammer, in combination hammer, in combination with it’s frequency & with it’s frequency & driving force, helps to drive driving force, helps to drive the pile.the pile.

Bias weights can be added Bias weights can be added to the hammer in cases to the hammer in cases where soils are considered where soils are considered marginal to vibratory marginal to vibratory drivingdriving

MKT V-22 with bias weight

How a vibratory driver / extractor How a vibratory driver / extractor system works (cont.)system works (cont.)

In order to effectively drive a pile, work must In order to effectively drive a pile, work must be done. To do work, force must be be done. To do work, force must be exerted through a given distance. In a exerted through a given distance. In a vibratory hammer, this force is generated vibratory hammer, this force is generated through the rotating eccentrics. This is also through the rotating eccentrics. This is also known as centrifugal force.known as centrifugal force.


The eccentrics of a vibratory hammer are attached The eccentrics of a vibratory hammer are attached to a shaft, and are mounted in pairs opposite one to a shaft, and are mounted in pairs opposite one another, on a horizontal plane inside the gearbox. another, on a horizontal plane inside the gearbox. The pinion shaft(s) are connected to a hydraulic The pinion shaft(s) are connected to a hydraulic motor/motors mounted to the outside of the gear motor/motors mounted to the outside of the gear box. As the eccentrics rotate in opposite box. As the eccentrics rotate in opposite directions, their horizontal forces cancel one directions, their horizontal forces cancel one another out, leaving only vertical vibration (see another out, leaving only vertical vibration (see following diagram) following diagram)


Position # 1

Position # 2

Position # 3

Position # 4


By virtue of being firmly clamped to the pile, the By virtue of being firmly clamped to the pile, the vertical vibration created in the gearbox by the vertical vibration created in the gearbox by the rotating eccentrics is transmitted into the pile being rotating eccentrics is transmitted into the pile being driven.driven.

The vibrations exerted through the pile and then The vibrations exerted through the pile and then into the soil cause a process referred to as soil into the soil cause a process referred to as soil liquefaction. This occurs when the loose, granular liquefaction. This occurs when the loose, granular particles in the soil become loose & jumbled, or particles in the soil become loose & jumbled, or liquefied. The shearing action created by the liquefied. The shearing action created by the vibration of the pile coupled with the combined vibration of the pile coupled with the combined weight of the hammer & pile allows for the pile to weight of the hammer & pile allows for the pile to be driven through the “liquefied” soil.be driven through the “liquefied” soil.


The upward vertical vibrations created by the rotating eccentrics in the The upward vertical vibrations created by the rotating eccentrics in the hammer are absorbed by the hammer’s suspension assembly, or suppressor hammer are absorbed by the hammer’s suspension assembly, or suppressor assembly. This assembly contains a number of rubber elastomers, which assembly. This assembly contains a number of rubber elastomers, which absorb the vibrations imparted by the hammer and prevent damage to the absorb the vibrations imparted by the hammer and prevent damage to the crane boom.crane boom.

The elastomers should be periodically inspected when hammer is being used The elastomers should be periodically inspected when hammer is being used regularly. They can break, or “pop”, in hard driving conditionsregularly. They can break, or “pop”, in hard driving conditions

3.) Vibratory Hammer Set-Up3.) Vibratory Hammer Set-Up

1.) Be sure that hydraulic power unit is set on level 1.) Be sure that hydraulic power unit is set on level groundground

MKT HP-700 power unit

Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.)Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.)

2.) Connect hydraulic 2.) Connect hydraulic hose bundle to power hose bundle to power unit (quick couplers unit (quick couplers have the plug & have the plug & couplers alternately couplers alternately matched to prevent matched to prevent incorrect hose incorrect hose connection).connection).

MKT Quick Disconnects

Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.):Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.): Wipe & clean all connectors & couplers prior Wipe & clean all connectors & couplers prior

to connection in order to prevent system to connection in order to prevent system contamination -- can use simple diesel fuelcontamination -- can use simple diesel fuel

Take great care not to damage hose bundle Take great care not to damage hose bundle by kinking, cutting, running over, etc.by kinking, cutting, running over, etc.

After use make sure to wipe clean & After use make sure to wipe clean & plug/cap all connectorsplug/cap all connectors

Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.):Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.):

Check all fluid levels in Check all fluid levels in engine prior to start-upengine prior to start-up

Check radiator fluid level

Check engine oil

Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.)Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.)

Check level of Check level of hydraulic fluid in hydraulic fluid in reservoir to make sure reservoir to make sure it is not below the it is not below the inspection gaugeinspection gauge

Check oil level in Check oil level in pump-drivepump-drive

Hydraulic reservoir

Pump drive

Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.):Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.):

With the hammer level With the hammer level and in the vertical and in the vertical position, check exciter position, check exciter housing lubrication oil housing lubrication oil via sight glass on via sight glass on hammer.hammer.

Oil level should not be Oil level should not be allowed to drop below allowed to drop below halfway in sight glasshalfway in sight glass

Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.):Vibratory Hammer Set-up (cont.): If reconnecting hydraulic If reconnecting hydraulic

lines, lift hammer in vertical lines, lift hammer in vertical position. Bleed clamp position. Bleed clamp cylinder of any excess air cylinder of any excess air that may have become that may have become trapped in the system. First trapped in the system. First make sure clamp is make sure clamp is completely closed, in order completely closed, in order to maintain pressure. Then to maintain pressure. Then bleed clamp via Allen bleed clamp via Allen wrench, as shown in picture wrench, as shown in picture on bottom right. Bleed on bottom right. Bleed clamp until fluid runs clear.clamp until fluid runs clear.

Close clamp completely

Bleed clamp using Allen wrench

Cold Weather Vibro Set-Up / Start-Up

4.) Vibratory Hammer Operation4.) Vibratory Hammer Operation

1.) Prior to driving or extracting, make sure top of pile is 1.) Prior to driving or extracting, make sure top of pile is flush with bottom of inside of clamp housing. Failure to do flush with bottom of inside of clamp housing. Failure to do so can cause unnatural stresses on jaws and clamp so can cause unnatural stresses on jaws and clamp assembly resulting in potential failure of jaws and/or clamp assembly resulting in potential failure of jaws and/or clamp components & systemcomponents & system

Vibratory Hammer Operation (cont.)Vibratory Hammer Operation (cont.)

Close jaws via clamp-Close jaws via clamp-close switch on either close switch on either remote pendant, or remote pendant, or control panel. Pilot control panel. Pilot operated check-valves operated check-valves ensure jaws remain ensure jaws remain locked in place until locked in place until powered in the other powered in the other directiondirection


Piles are driven by Piles are driven by completely relaxing the completely relaxing the hoist line once the hoist line once the hammer is properly hammer is properly clamped to the pile, clamped to the pile, and the vibration of the and the vibration of the hammer is startedhammer is started

MKT V-52 driving sheets


When a pile can be driven no further due to an When a pile can be driven no further due to an overload of the pile/soil system, the frequency of overload of the pile/soil system, the frequency of the hammer will noticeably slow downthe hammer will noticeably slow down

If pile can be driven no further due to striking an If pile can be driven no further due to striking an impenetrable object, there will be a considerable impenetrable object, there will be a considerable drop-off in drive pressure and exciter will “dance” drop-off in drive pressure and exciter will “dance” in place. To continue driving, object must be in place. To continue driving, object must be removed, or alternate method of driving must be removed, or alternate method of driving must be selected (ex. impact hammer )selected (ex. impact hammer )

Vibratory Hammer Operation (cont.):Vibratory Hammer Operation (cont.):

Piles are extracted by tensioning the hoist Piles are extracted by tensioning the hoist line, while hammer is vibrating. Pulling line, while hammer is vibrating. Pulling capacity is limited by rating of suspension capacity is limited by rating of suspension assembly and tensile strength of pile.assembly and tensile strength of pile.

22ndnd crane line should be attached to adjacent crane line should be attached to adjacent pile (dead man) and drawn tight as a pile (dead man) and drawn tight as a precautionary measure against sudden loss precautionary measure against sudden loss of loadof load

5.) Service & Maintenance5.) Service & Maintenance Vibratory hammers should be inspected regularly to keep Vibratory hammers should be inspected regularly to keep

in good operating condition.in good operating condition. Proper maintenance begins w/ cleanliness. Make sure no Proper maintenance begins w/ cleanliness. Make sure no

foreign material enters hydraulic fluid circuit.foreign material enters hydraulic fluid circuit. All filters should be changed after initial (50) hours of All filters should be changed after initial (50) hours of

operating time on new hammers. During normal operation operating time on new hammers. During normal operation these filters should be changed after every 200 hrs, or at these filters should be changed after every 200 hrs, or at least twice per year. On larger units (V-22, V-52), pump least twice per year. On larger units (V-22, V-52), pump drive fluid should be changed approx every 500 hrs.drive fluid should be changed approx every 500 hrs.

Change exciter case oil after approx. 50 hrs drive time, or Change exciter case oil after approx. 50 hrs drive time, or as neededas needed

Hydraulic fluid should be maintained at all times. Make Hydraulic fluid should be maintained at all times. Make sure all hydraulic hose connections are tight & leak-free.sure all hydraulic hose connections are tight & leak-free.

Service & Maintenance (cont.)Service & Maintenance (cont.) Check hydraulic fluid level on tank before and during Check hydraulic fluid level on tank before and during

operation. Do not operate if fluid level registers below operation. Do not operate if fluid level registers below inspection gauge.inspection gauge.

In normal, safe operation of MKT vibratory system, In normal, safe operation of MKT vibratory system, hydraulic fluid temperatures should remain in range of 115 hydraulic fluid temperatures should remain in range of 115 degrees Farenheit to 165 degrees farenheit. degrees Farenheit to 165 degrees farenheit.

If hydraulic oil temperature becomes excessive (above 180 If hydraulic oil temperature becomes excessive (above 180 degrees), stop operation and consult w/ factory or nearest degrees), stop operation and consult w/ factory or nearest MKT factory authorized servicing distributorMKT factory authorized servicing distributor

Service & Maintenance (cont.)Service & Maintenance (cont.) MKT vibratory drivers / extractors typicallly uses a MKT vibratory drivers / extractors typicallly uses a

petroleum base gear oil, Shell Omala 220 or equivalent.petroleum base gear oil, Shell Omala 220 or equivalent. If hammer is consistently being pushed beyond If hammer is consistently being pushed beyond

recommended duty cycle, or if hammer is being operated in recommended duty cycle, or if hammer is being operated in excessively hot conditions, a synthetic alternative is excessively hot conditions, a synthetic alternative is available. Shell Omala 220 RL or equivalent.available. Shell Omala 220 RL or equivalent.

Our experience shows the synthetic oil reduces the Our experience shows the synthetic oil reduces the hammer’s operating temperature by 15-20 degrees. In hammer’s operating temperature by 15-20 degrees. In addition, the synthetic alternative offers superior corrosion addition, the synthetic alternative offers superior corrosion protection, improved oxidation, and thermal stabilityprotection, improved oxidation, and thermal stability

Service & Maintenance (cont.)Service & Maintenance (cont.) Warning: Do not start power unit if main pump has been Warning: Do not start power unit if main pump has been

inactive for a long time w/o first checking to make sure inactive for a long time w/o first checking to make sure pump is full of oil. This will prevent the starting of the pump pump is full of oil. This will prevent the starting of the pump w/o the proper lubrication, which can potentially cause w/o the proper lubrication, which can potentially cause pump damage. To check the main pump remove the drain pump damage. To check the main pump remove the drain hose and visually inspect to determine there is the proper hose and visually inspect to determine there is the proper amount of oil. If oil must be added, extreme care must be amount of oil. If oil must be added, extreme care must be taken to ensure cleanliness of oil, so as not to contaminate taken to ensure cleanliness of oil, so as not to contaminate entire system. MKT recommends the oil being introduced entire system. MKT recommends the oil being introduced to system pass through a 10 micron filter.to system pass through a 10 micron filter.

Service & Maintenance (cont.)Service & Maintenance (cont.) After start-up & operation of the hammer, check the following:After start-up & operation of the hammer, check the following:

Inspect lines for hydraulic leaksInspect lines for hydraulic leaks Inspect oil seal areas in pump drive & control valves for leaksInspect oil seal areas in pump drive & control valves for leaks Allow hydraulic oil temp to rise slightly above pour temp Allow hydraulic oil temp to rise slightly above pour temp

(preferably 30 degrees or more) before starting the hammer(preferably 30 degrees or more) before starting the hammer Before attaching to pile, open & close clamp jaws to ensure Before attaching to pile, open & close clamp jaws to ensure

proper functionproper function Be sure hydraulic lines are free of kinks and they hang uniformlyBe sure hydraulic lines are free of kinks and they hang uniformly Always maintain a close check on lifting cable to ensure Always maintain a close check on lifting cable to ensure

integrityintegrity Using a pyrometer, monitor bearing cover temperatures on Using a pyrometer, monitor bearing cover temperatures on

exciter caseexciter case

6.) Safety (general)

Virtually all jobsite accidents that involve product operation, maintenance, and repair are caused by failure to follow fundamental safety rules or precautions. Accidents can often be avoided by identifying potentially unsafe situations before an accident occurs. Be cognizant of your surroundings and alert to potential hazards. Those operating the equipment should have the necessary training, tools, and skills to do so.

Safety (cont.) Do not operate or perform any lubrication, maintenance, or repair on

this equipment until you have read and understand the applicable information in the Operation & Maintenance manual.

The information, specifications, and illustrations in the manuals are based on information available at the time it was written. The specs, torques, pressures, measurements, adjustments, illustrations, and other items can and do change at any time. These changes can effect the performance and service given to the product. Obtain the latest and most complete information about the product to be used prior to job start-up. MKT Manufacturing, Inc & MKT distributors have the most current information available.

Safety (cont.) Use caution when removing filler caps, grease fittings,

pressure taps, breathers or drain plugs. Hold a rag over the cap or plug to prevent being sprayed or splashed by hot liquids under pressure.

Always wear hard hat, protective glasses, hearing protection, and other protective equipment as required.

Avoid wearing loose fitting clothing or jewelry that can get caught on controls or other parts of equipment.

Make certain all protective guards & covers are in place Use all cleaning solutions w/ care. Report all needed repairs.

Safety (maintenance) To properly service the equipment, stop the hammer or drill, & engine. Disconnect battery whenever performing any maintenance or before

servicing the electrical system. If engine has electric starters, disconnect and protect the battery ground leads to prevent accidental start-up

NEVER attempt any repairs or adjustments to the engine or hammer while it is running.

Do not attempt repairs or adjustment you do not understand. Call the factory! Use proper tools: replace or repair broken or damaged

If applicable, block or restrain the equipment before performing maintenance.

Do not adjust, or set, hydraulic pressures. Contact MKT to have a factory trained technician perform this work.

Safety: Pressurized Air & Water Pressurized air or water can cause personal injury. When

using pressurized air or water for cleaning, wear protective face shield, protective clothing, and protective shoes.

The maximum air pressure must be below 30 psi, and maximum water pressure must be below 40 psi for cleaning purposes.

Safety: Fluid Penetration Wear eye protection at all times when cleaning the cooling system.

Pressurized water could cause debris and/or hot water to be blown, and result in personal injury.

Always use a board or cardboard when checking for a leak. Fluid escaping under pressure, even through a pin-hole size leak, can penetrate body tissue, causing serious injury or death.

Hot liquids coming into contact with skin can cause severe burns.

If fluid is injected directly onto your skin, it must be treated by a doctor familiar with this type of injury immediately.

Safety: Hoses, Lines, & Tubes Do not pull on, or attempt to move equipment, with hydraulic hoses.

Move power unit closer to work if hoses do not reach.

Replace any damaged or kinked hoses immediately. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or death.

Do not lift, or support, hydraulic hoses w/ wire-rope slings.

Do not attempt to pull out kinks in hydraulic hoses. Kinks can reduce the hose safety factor by up to 50%.

Do not bend or strike high-pressure lines. Do not install bent or damaged lines, tubes, or hoses.

Safety: Hoses, Lines, & Tubes (Cont.)

Inspect all lines, tubes, and hoses carefully. Do not use bare hands to check for leaks….wear protective gloves. Tighten all connections to factory recommended torque.

Repair any loose or damaged fuel and oil lines, tubes or hoses prior to equipment start-up. Leaks can cause fire and/or injury.

Make sure that all clamps, guards, and heat shields are installed correctly to prevent vibration, rubbing against other parts, and excessive heat during operation.

Do not allow hot oil to come into contact with skin, as it can cause severe burning and/or personal injury.

Safety: Hoses, Lines, & Tubes (cont.)

Before equipment start-up, check all lines, hoses and tubes for the following:

1.) End fittings damaged, leaking, or displaced

2.) Outer covering chafed or cut, and/or broken wires

3.) Outer covering ballooning locally

4.) Evidence of kinking or crushing

Safety: Fire or Explosion Prevention All fuels, most lubricants, hydraulic oil, and some coolant mixtures are

flammable. Diesel fuel & gasoline are obviously flammable. Mixing diesel and gasoline can be EXTREMELY explosive.

Do not weld or flame-cut on pipes or tubes that contain flammable fluids. Clean them thoroughly with nonflammable solvent before working on them.

Clean and tighten all electrical connections. Check regularly for loose or frayed electrical wires. Refer to maintenance schedules for intervals. Replace, repair, and / or tighten all loose or frayed electrical wires prior to equipment start-up.

Wiring must be kept in good condition, properly routed, and firmly attached. Routinely inspect wiring for wear or deterioration. All wires and cables must be of the recommended gauge and fused.

Always have a fire extinguisher available. Keep it inspected & serviced

Safety: Crushing or Cutting Prevention

Make sure equipment and attachments are properly supported when working underneath them.

NEVER attempt adjustments while the engine is running unless otherwise specified in the equipment manual.

Stay clear of all rotating and moving parts. Guards should be in place whenever maintenance is not being performed.

Keep hands away from all hydraulic clamps once equipment is turned on.

Keep objects away from fan blades. They will throw or cut any object or tool that falls or is pushed into them.

Wear protective glasses when striking objects to avoid eye injury Wear hearing protection while equipment is in operation.

Safety: Mounting & Dismounting Prior to mounting hammer, and before each lift, operator

must review excavator/crane lifting capacity to determine weight of equipment is within the rated lifting capacity of the crane/excavator.

Do not climb on, or jump off the equipment or stand on components that cannot support your weight. Use an adequate ladder. Always use steps and handholds when mounting / dismounting.

Before Starting Hammer or Drill Make sure that all lifting equipment, including cranes, wire ropes,

slings, hooks, shackles, etc., are properly sized for the worst case loads anticipated during operations. Check wire rope slings for tightness, and wire ropes for wear daily.

If you have any questions about weights, specifications, or performance of the hammer or drill, contact MKT prior to start-up

NEVER attempt to connect to quick-disconnect couplers while the power unit is running.

Make sure that all ground vibrations will not damage adjacent structures or excavations.

Make sure no one is working on or close to the equipment prior to start-up

Hammer and/or Drill Operation Only well-trained and experienced personnel should attempt to operate

or maintain this equipment. Do not stand any closer to equipment than necessary when it’s in

operation. Parts may loosen and fall. Piling may shatter or break. Do not operate the hammer, crane boom, piles, leads, wire rope and

other equipment within 15’ of electrical power lines, transformers and other electrical equipment, or within such distance as required by applicable safety codes.

Do not side-load crane boom or hammer. Dangerous crane boom or hammer damage may result. Always be sure that crane boom is aligned w/ center line of the pile.

Hammer and / or Drill Operation Always use the pile handling / safety line to attach the pile

to the hammer. This way, should the clamps suddenly lose hydraulic pressure, the pile will not fall to the ground.

Leave the pile handling / safety line attached to the pile at all times until it is firmly stuck in the ground.

7.) Hammer Selection & Soils 7.) Hammer Selection & Soils AnalysisAnalysis

In order to accurately select a hammer for a In order to accurately select a hammer for a given project, a basic understanding of both given project, a basic understanding of both the hammer and soil system are necessary. the hammer and soil system are necessary. However, this is not an exact science, and However, this is not an exact science, and several factors should be taken into several factors should be taken into consideration. Successful pile-driving with a consideration. Successful pile-driving with a vibratory hammer is contingent on good vibratory hammer is contingent on good knowledge of the site & soil conditionsknowledge of the site & soil conditions

Hammer Selection & Soils Analysis Hammer Selection & Soils Analysis (cont.):(cont.):

Analyze available soils information – read Analyze available soils information – read any and all available soils reports on the any and all available soils reports on the project. Important areas of concern on project. Important areas of concern on these reports include the blow count (also these reports include the blow count (also referred to a “N” value, or “SPT”), moisture referred to a “N” value, or “SPT”), moisture content, type of soil, profile of pile to be content, type of soil, profile of pile to be driven, pile layout, etc.driven, pile layout, etc.

Hammer Selection & Soils Analysis Hammer Selection & Soils Analysis (cont.): see attached(cont.): see attached

The “N” value, or blow count, The “N” value, or blow count, refers to the # of times it refers to the # of times it takes to drive an open-takes to drive an open-ended, hollow tube through ended, hollow tube through 18” of material, using a 18” of material, using a 140lb drop hammer. The 140lb drop hammer. The tube itself is referred to as a tube itself is referred to as a split-spoon sampler. The split-spoon sampler. The first 6” of soil are considered first 6” of soil are considered “disturbed” during this type “disturbed” during this type of testing, and are thusly of testing, and are thusly disregarded. The final 12” disregarded. The final 12” are collected and analyzed. are collected and analyzed.

Hammer Selection & Soils Analysis Hammer Selection & Soils Analysis (cont.):(cont.):

Using the formula discussed earlier, Using the formula discussed earlier, calculate the hammer’s amplitude when calculate the hammer’s amplitude when clamped to the pile. Then compare / clamped to the pile. Then compare / contrast this to any available soils analysis, contrast this to any available soils analysis, project and / or pile info, etc.project and / or pile info, etc.

amplitude (inches) = (eccentric moment / vibrating mass) X 2amplitude (inches) = (eccentric moment / vibrating mass) X 2

Soils Analysis (cont.)

Please see memory stick for soils reports.

Sheet Pile-Driving: TechniquesSheet Pile-Driving: Techniques Every precaution should be taken to select the Every precaution should be taken to select the

proper type of pile, and to install them safely and proper type of pile, and to install them safely and effectively.effectively.

When driving a sheet wall, take time to ensure the When driving a sheet wall, take time to ensure the first pile is driven accurately, vertically, and / or first pile is driven accurately, vertically, and / or plumb. It’s then much easier for subsequent piles plumb. It’s then much easier for subsequent piles to be interlocked with the first pile, which acts as a to be interlocked with the first pile, which acts as a guide for the remainder of the wall.guide for the remainder of the wall.

In general, sheets should be driven at a rate of 1 In general, sheets should be driven at a rate of 1 foot per minute or more, in order to prevent foot per minute or more, in order to prevent overdriving and potential damage to both the overdriving and potential damage to both the sheet pile and the hammersheet pile and the hammer

Sheet Pile-Driving: TechniquesSheet Pile-Driving: Techniques 1.) Set & Drive 1.) Set & Drive

Method: The simplest Method: The simplest way of driving a sheet way of driving a sheet wall. Each sheet pile wall. Each sheet pile is driven to it’s full is driven to it’s full depth before setting depth before setting the next pile. Can only the next pile. Can only be utilized as an be utilized as an effective installation effective installation method in loose soils method in loose soils w/ short pilingsw/ short pilings

Sheet Pile-Driving: TechniquesSheet Pile-Driving: Techniques 2.) Panel Driving Method: Helps ensure good verticality & alignment. 2.) Panel Driving Method: Helps ensure good verticality & alignment.

Minimizes risk of installation difficulties by driving out of interlock. Drive 1Minimizes risk of installation difficulties by driving out of interlock. Drive 1stst set of sheets fully, then set the next 3 sets. Once those pairs are set, fully set of sheets fully, then set the next 3 sets. Once those pairs are set, fully drive the final pair. Then drive remainder of panel, working backwards drive the final pair. Then drive remainder of panel, working backwards towards the 1towards the 1stst pair. The last pair of the first panel becomes the 1st pair of pair. The last pair of the first panel becomes the 1st pair of the 2the 2ndnd panel. Because the whole panel has been set, it’s unnecessary to panel. Because the whole panel has been set, it’s unnecessary to drive all piling fully in order to continue operations. If obstructions are drive all piling fully in order to continue operations. If obstructions are encountered, individual pilings can be left high without fear of disruption to encountered, individual pilings can be left high without fear of disruption to progress of setting the wallprogress of setting the wall

Sheet Pile-Driving: TechniquesSheet Pile-Driving: Techniques 3.) Staggered Driving – 3.) Staggered Driving –

Preferred method in Preferred method in difficult soil conditions. difficult soil conditions. Pilings are installed using Pilings are installed using a template, then driven in a template, then driven in short steps. If soils are short steps. If soils are very dense, piles can be very dense, piles can be reinforced using pile reinforced using pile shoes, or pile tips. If shoes, or pile tips. If driving slows to less than 1 driving slows to less than 1 foot per minute, a larger foot per minute, a larger hammer (if possible) or hammer (if possible) or alternate method of driving alternate method of driving is strongly recommended.is strongly recommended.

Sheet Pile-Driving: CofferdamsSheet Pile-Driving: Cofferdams

1.) Panel-driving method (rectangular): Before 1.) Panel-driving method (rectangular): Before driving commences adjacent to a corner pile, driving commences adjacent to a corner pile, make sure the crane has sufficient reach to enable make sure the crane has sufficient reach to enable each pile to be interlocked into the previously set each pile to be interlocked into the previously set pile. Working around the perimeter, the final and pile. Working around the perimeter, the final and closing panel (which should include a corner pile), closing panel (which should include a corner pile), must be set & interlocked with the partly driven 1must be set & interlocked with the partly driven 1stst pair of pilings. This ensures closure of the pair of pilings. This ensures closure of the cofferdam.cofferdam.

Sheet Pile-Driving: CofferdamsSheet Pile-Driving: Cofferdams

2.) Set & Drive Method (rectangular): Pile-2.) Set & Drive Method (rectangular): Pile-driving operations should start & stop at (5) driving operations should start & stop at (5) double pilings from the final corner. Closure double pilings from the final corner. Closure of the cofferdam is achieved by adjusting of the cofferdam is achieved by adjusting the alignment of the wall either inwards or the alignment of the wall either inwards or outwards to suit the dimension of the pilings outwards to suit the dimension of the pilings being used. It’s important to maintain being used. It’s important to maintain verticality of the pilings in order that they can verticality of the pilings in order that they can be properly & safely interlockedbe properly & safely interlocked

Sheet Pile Driving: CofferdamsSheet Pile Driving: Cofferdams 3.) Driving Circular Cofferdams: For small 3.) Driving Circular Cofferdams: For small

cofferdams, when possible, set & interlock all cofferdams, when possible, set & interlock all pilings around a driving template prior to driving pilings around a driving template prior to driving them to their full depth. Driving should progress in them to their full depth. Driving should progress in stages using a short leading increment of one pile stages using a short leading increment of one pile to the adjoining pile. In large circular cofferdams, to the adjoining pile. In large circular cofferdams, verticality is usually maintained using panel-driving verticality is usually maintained using panel-driving techniques to facilitate closure of the cofferdam. techniques to facilitate closure of the cofferdam. May also be necessary to re-arrange final panel by May also be necessary to re-arrange final panel by increasing or reducing the radius of the cofferdam, increasing or reducing the radius of the cofferdam, or by introducing a specially fabricated pile.or by introducing a specially fabricated pile.

vibratory hammers:

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