Most people don’t expect an underground tank to move, especially one made of concrete. But under the right conditions, groundwater can actually push a buried tank upward.
This problem, known as tank flotation, can damage the tank, break underground piping, and lead to expensive repairs.
So, how can we prevent it? And could helical piles offer a simpler solution?
Why Do Underground Tanks Float?
When groundwater rises around a buried tank, it creates an upward force called buoyancy.
If that force is greater than the weight holding the tank down, the tank can begin to lift.
This is more likely when:
- Groundwater levels are high, especially during wet seasons.
- Tanks are empty or partially empty, reducing their weight.
- Lightweight tanks are used, such as polyethylene or fibreglass tanks.
- The surrounding soil provides insufficient resistance to the upward force.
Even heavy concrete tanks can be affected under certain conditions.
How Is This Problem Usually Solved?
Traditional solutions include adding concrete ballast, installing buried concrete anchor blocks, or using specially designed tank foundations.
These methods can work well, but they may require additional excavation, heavy materials, lifting equipment and installation time.
For projects with limited access or challenging ground conditions, a simpler anchoring method could be valuable.
Could GoliathTech Helical Piles Be the Solution?
Imagine securing an underground tank with four helical piles—two installed on each side of the excavation.
The piles would be driven into suitable soil and connected to the tank using engineered straps or other approved restraints.
Rather than relying on additional concrete weight, the piles would provide resistance against the upward force created by groundwater.
The number of piles, their required tension capacity and the connections would be determined according to the project.
Why Consider Helical Piles?
1. Fast installation
With suitable ground conditions and site access, a small group of helical piles can often be installed in a matter of hours.
2. Immediate load capacity
Unlike concrete foundations, helical piles don’t need curing time. Once properly installed and verified, the anchors can be ready to carry their designed loads the same day.
3. Less concrete and excavation
Helical anchoring could eliminate the need for additional concrete ballast or large buried anchor blocks, depending on the design.
4. Compact installation equipment
GoliathTech piles can be installed using relatively small equipment, making them worth considering on properties with restricted access.
5. Measurable installation performance
Installation torque provides valuable information for verifying pile capacity against the engineered requirements.
6. Suitable for different tank types
With appropriate engineering and manufacturer-approved restraints, this approach could be considered for concrete, fibreglass, polyethylene and other underground storage tanks.
Could It Be More Cost-Effective?
That’s worth exploring.
Where conventional anchoring requires significant concrete ballast, additional excavation or heavy lifting equipment, helical piles may offer savings in installation time, material handling and site restoration.
The advantage is having another practical option to consider.
Let’s Explore the Possibilities
At GoliathTech West GTA, we’re always looking for ways to make foundation and anchoring work simpler, faster and more efficient.
If you’re a septic installer, excavation contractor, tank supplier or engineer working on underground tank installations, we’d be interested in discussing whether helical piles could provide an effective anchoring solution for your next project.
We serve Burlington, Milton, Brampton, Oakville, Caledon, Collingwood, Georgian Bay, the Bruce Peninsula and surrounding areas.
GoliathTech West GTA
Phone: 742-778-7783
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://darkblue-clam-970668.hostingersite.com