What are the types and scope of application of sheet piles?

Sheet piles are steel sections with interlocking edges. They are driven into the ground to provide excavation support. These sheet piles are used for supporting walls, land reclamation, building underground structures, and riverbank or coastal protection. There are many different types of sheet piles to choose from. All of them have their own uses and depth of purpose.

Sheet piles are materials that are driven into the ground and used as sheet pile retaining walls. They are used in a variety of temporary and permanent applications. Take a look at the differences between the most common sheet piles:

Z- and U-type sheet piles

These two are arguably the most similar of all sheet piles. type Z is used in deep wall structures for more durable building support and stronger foundations. type Z sheet piles are the most efficient sheet piles. Because of this, they are most commonly used in cantilever and restraint systems.

On the other hand, U type sheet piles are very similar to Z-type sheet piles in their application. The only difference is their interlocking mechanism.

U type sheet piles interlock between adjacent sheet piles. The Z type sheet pile has an additional steel protrusion that helps to increase its bending resistance. Compared with U-type sheet piles, Z-shaped sheet piles have better bending resistance.

Z- and U-type sheet piles are mainly used to reinforce dams and river banks. They are strong enough to help strengthen structures that must face constant pressure from one or both sides. They can also be used to create shelter barriers for more stringent and specific protection measures. Another application for these sheet piles is as a sound barrier. This is achieved when you attach sound-absorbing material to the front of the pile.

Z type sheet piles are used more often than U type sheet piles. Z type sheet piles have a larger modulus, making them a better choice for intermediate piles in tubular and HZ combination walls. Z-plate piles can also be used to form webs due to the specific location of the interlock being symmetrical on both sides of its neutral axis.

U type sheet piles are usually considered Z-type sheet piles due to their similarity. However, U type sheet piles can be used for temporary retaining walls, impermeable walls, embankments and revetments!