Dynamic compaction

Dynamic Compaction is a ground improvement technique that densifies granular materials by using a drop weight and it is applicable to both saturated and unsaturated soils. The basic principle of this technique is the transmission of high energy impacts to loose granular soil which initially have low bearing capacity and high compressibility potentials in order to significantly improve their characteristics with depth. 

Process

The ground will be subjected to repeated surface tamping using a heavy weight from a significant height. The weight and height of pounding depends on the desired degree of compaction. The pounder is dropped a set number of times on a grid pattern over the site to form a pass. Several passes may be required on a site, dependent on soil type and condition. The imprints formed at each drop position are infilled with granular material after each pass.

Common uses

  • Increase bearing capacity
  • Decrease settlement
  • Mitigate liquefaction
  • Reduce sinkhole potential

Advantages

  • Capable of compacting a wide variety of weak soils
  • Increased bearing capacity
  • Reduced settlement
  • Treated granular soils and fills have increased density, friction angle, and stiffness
  • Can improve soil conditions on marginal sites to extent that shallow foundations can be used without deep excavation or piling
  • Removal of compressible, contaminated fills can sometimes be avoided
  • Construction can commence immediately after the DC work is completed as it leaves a clean site which is free from debris

Quality assurance

Typically, in situ testing by borehole or static cone penetrometer, allied with measurement of print volume and site surface settlement is performed during the dynamic deep compaction.

The treatment pattern, energy level, number of passes and phasing of passes must be designed to take into account the soil conditions, type of development and required bearing capacity and settlement characteristics. It is essential to have a thorough understanding of the soils prior to treatment, and to maintain very close control during all phases of the work. Typically, insitu testing by borehole or static cone penetrometer, allied with measurement of print volume and site surface settlement is performed during the dynamic deep compaction contract.

Related techniques

Ground improvement

Background texture image

Related projects

Energy and utilities

Gas Plant Project

Through value engineering, Keller replaced the originally specified stone columns with Dynamic Compaction, delivering significant time and cost efficiencies while achieving the required performance criteria.

View project All projects
Ground improvement using Dynamic compaction and Rapid Impact Compaction Gas Plant

Commercial and leisure

Dubai Square Mall

Ground improvement works for a major landmark retail development in Dubai was successfully delivered through proactive execution and close coordination, achieving all key milestones within the required programme.

View project All projects
DC and DR at Dubai Square Mall

Residential

Mohammed Bin Rashed City – District One – Phase 3

Keller successfully delivered the ground improvement project on schedule, overcoming challenges posed by the nearby quiet neighborhood. With a strong commitment to quality, safety, and minimal disruption, the project was completed seamlessly, earning highly satisfactory feedback from the client.

View project All projects
dynamic compaction in progress

Industrial

KEZAD Gate Warehouses

Ground improvement works using Rapid Impact Compaction, Dynamic Compaction, Dynamic Replacement, and Vibro Replacement techniques for warehouses.

View project All projects
rapid impact compaction in progress

Residential

Jubail Island

Ground Improvement for heterogynous soil profile by applying different ground improvement techniques.

View project All projects
Dynamic compaction in progress
1

Related techniques

Ground improvement

Work with us

Talk to our experts to learn how we could help on your project.

Contact us