Tips & Advice Posts

Hurricane season is right around the corner (May 15 – November 30 for the Pacific; June 1 – November 30 for the Atlantic), but here in Houston, Texas, we know that it’s never too early to start preparing and devising an emergency plan.In April 2019, the U.S. Congressional Budget Office released a report stating that the annual estimated cost of hurricane-related damage is around $54 billion to the nation’s GDP. Construction sites are at an especially high risk for damage due to the nature of the work.Preparation is key to maintaining business continuity and reducing downtime as much as possible. Whether you are thinking about how to create a plan of action, how to protect your equipment or material, or how to recover post-storm, we’ve compiled tips to help you through the season

Creating an Emergency Action Plan

Create a detailed emergency action plan (EAP) for the site, including a site inventory of equipment and material and a relocation plan for material and equipment (including barges and workboats) if your site is near water.You should also compile an organizational chart and brief all managers on their responsibilities as a team leader. In the event that the site is not safe for employees, managers should attempt to call and notify their direct reports as soon as possible. The safety of employees should be the main goal of the action plan.Your EAP should include:

• A list of employees trained on site shutdown procedures
• The organizational chart, as well as numbers to resources like your insurance company, local authorities, and suppliers of material or services for post-storm recovery
• Preferred method of communication (define if texting, certain communications apps, or two-way devices are acceptable forms of communication, in case phone lines are jammed)
• Who will be responsible for storing company records (including insurance documents)? Where will they be located?
• Plans for material and equipment relocation and up-to-date inventory. Consider taking photos of your inventory and photos or video of the site to document the current state of the project

Preparing Sites in the Path of a Storm

The EAP should include guidelines for securing and protecting any site equipment and material.

• At around 36 hours to landfall, you should be monitoring the path of the storm and decide on whether or not the emergency plan will be activated. Suspend all work once a hurricane warning (imminent landfall within 24 hours) is issued
• Anything that can be stored indoors should be moved
• Have a relocation plan specifically for any hazardous or flammable materials
• Any boats or barges should be secured on land (if possible; if not, secure them as best you can at a dock)
• Sandbags, ground anchors, tie-down straps and netting should be used to cover materials (and signage) that cannot be moved indoors to keep them from being swept away by wind or storm surge
• Disconnect power to non-essential equipment to prevent power surges, flooding, or electrocution
• Clear all debris from the site
• Take all important records and papers (and any computers or electronic devices) with you when you leave the site
• Lock doors, fences, etc. to prevent theft

Post-Storm Cleanup and Recovery

Designate a team who will be available to help assess sites post-storm. Then, after the storm has passed and authorities have determined it is safe to travel (and it is safe to access the site), the post-storm assessment team should meet to assess any damage to the site, structures, equipment and materials.

• Never wade or work in areas with high water. The water could be contaminated, contain snakes, ants, or debris, or be hiding holes and dips in the ground
• Do not turn the electricity back on until all water has receded and wiring has been evaluated for damage. Firefighting can be extremely difficult post-storm, especially if roads are still damaged or blocked in certain areas
• Assess your inventory for any evidence of theft. Unfortunately, theft and looting can be common after storms
• Take photographic evidence of any damage to present to your insurer when filing claims

Remember that the greatest threat from tropical storms or hurricanes comes from water – specifically, storm surge. Storm surge is the deadliest factor during the storm.Visit OSHA’s website for more information on emergency preparedness and response.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s dedicated and experienced team is available to help buyers and sellers connect, negotiate, provide free freight quotes, and more. Let us help you every step of the way.From used barges and used excavators, to used wide flange beams and used steel pipe for sale, our online marketplace has it all.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

When shopping for used steel pipe or steel pipe piles, you are likely going to have to choose from two options: seamless steel pipe, or welded? Both are made from the same base materials, but produced in different ways. The names are indicative of the manufacturing process and end-result, but they don’t tell the whole story.There is a wider variety of sizes for welded steel pipe because it is easier to produce, even though the manufacturing process involves more steps.We have previously discussed uses and applications for steel pipe. In this post, we’ll discuss the differences between seamless and welded steel pipes, plus their advantages and the strengths of each over the other.

Seamless

Seamless steel pipes are pipes without welds or joints. It is manufactured using a single piece of steel. A machine pushes the center of the rod out of the billet, creating a hollow tube. The pipe is then rolled and stretched to the desired length, diameter, and wall thickness. This type of steel pipe can be formed into hot-rolled or cold-rolled pipe, cold-drawn or extruded tubes. It is more expensive than welded pipe, but offers greater strength.Seamless steel pipe’s ASME-rated working pressure is typically 20% higher than that of welded steel pipe piles. It also offers higher resistance to corrosion or damage because of lower risk of impurities along seams.Seamless pipe is often used in pile driving applications as structural support for heavy civil and marine construction, including docks and bridges. Seamless steel pipe can also be used to transport flammable and some solid materials, which makes it a good choice for oil and natural gas exploration and transportation.

Welded

The two most common methods for steel pipe welding are straight seam or spiral seam welding. Welded steel pipes are typically used to transport fluid (water or oil) and natural gas. It is typically less expensive than seamless steel pipe. Both types of welding are applied after the pipe has been rolled, which involves shaping a sheet of steel into the end shape.

• Straight Seam: Straight seam welded steel pipes are manufactured by adding a welding parallel to the pipe seam. The process is fairly straightforward: Straight seam pipes are formed when a sheet of steel is bent and formed into a pipe shape, then welded longitudinally. Straight seam pipes can be submerged arc welded (SAW) or double-submerged arc welded (DSAW).
• Spiral Seam: Spiral seam welded pipes are manufactured when hot-rolled strip steel is formed into a pipe through spiral bending and welded along the then spiraled seam of the pipe. This results in the weld length being 30-100% longer than that of a straight seam welded pipe. This method is more commonly used on large diameter pipe. (Note: this method of welding may also be referred to as helical submerged arc welded, or HSAW. Spiral seam pipes are also available as DSAW.)

Welded steel pipe can also be electric resistance welded (ERW), which is cold-formed rather than hot-rolled. Rather than using heat or a flame to weld the seams, an electric current is used to heat the edges. The seam on ERW pipe cannot be seen by the naked eye or felt by hand.Depending upon the size of pipe needed, you may be able to use either straight or spiral welded steel pipe piles for your project. However, spiral welded pipes typically have a greater strength than straight seam pipe. Always refer to the ATSM and ASME standards for specific guidelines for your project.Welded steel pipe is used for pile driving, marine construction, water and oil and gas transportation, and by utility companies.

Buy and Sell Used and Surplus Steel Pipe with Eiffel Trading

In addition to a wide variety of used and surplus steel pipe for sale our online marketplace also has a large selection of used loaders, used dozers, used sheet pile, used wide flange beams, and much more for sale.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing for free.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

One of the most versatile types of material in the heavy civil and marine construction industries (as well as the oil and gas industry) today is steel pipe. These long, hollow steel tubes are sold as either welded or seamless pipe.Seamless steel pipes are made from a solid round cylinder, called a billet, which is heated then pushed over a die that pushes out the center of the tube creating a hollow cylinder. Seamless pipe is considered the stronger of the two types of steel pipe, but is more expensive. This type of pipe also has a higher tensile strength due to the lack of a welded crease.Welded steel pipes are made from steel sheets that are rolled and welded along the joints. As a result, the pipe is welded down its entire length. This type of pipe usually has a more consistent wall thickness than seamless pipe. Welded pipe is less expensive than seamless, and also more readily available. Welded steel pipes also have a higher production efficiency.The primary purpose of surplus pipes is to transport materials (namely oil, gas, or water) over distances, but steel pipe also has many other useful applications. In this post, we’ll discuss the benefits of steel pipes and their use in structural (construction) and transportation applications.

Why Steel?

There are many reasons steel pipe is a popular option for construction projects, but one of the most-cited reasons is steel’s versatility. Steel pipes are offered in a wide range of sizes, and its strength and durability make it a great choice for many types of projects. Plus, steel is one of the most used and most recycled materials in the U.S. annually, making it an environmentally-friendly choice – even more so if purchased used surplus pipe. Remember, surplus steel pipe is unused pipe and can be nearly-prime quality.Some steel pipes can be custom-made to fit certain specifications of a job. However, purchasing used steel pipes is more economical than ordering new, custom pieces. Luckily, these pipes can be modified on the jobsite by cutting sections down to the necessary lengths.

Structural

The heavy civil construction industry uses steel pipe as a cost-effective, more reliable alternative to other metals like iron. Steel pipes are able to withstand the elements better than other types of metal. Additionally, steel is less likely to experience a complete break under extreme conditions.

• Construction: Steel pipes are used in the construction industry for things like creating temporary structures, such as crane access trestle. Steel pipes are also commonly used in cofferdams and for deep excavation operations.
• Pipe Piling & Foundation: Steel pipe piles have grown in popularity over the years due in large part to its ability to withstand vibrations and high amounts of pressure. Pipe piles are sometimes used in conjunction with sheet pile, known as combi-wall, to create stronger cofferdams, temporary terminals, or reinforced retaining walls. Steel pipe piles are commonly used in shoring and temporary dock and navigation piling.

Seamless pipe is often used in pile driving applications. These piles are used to support structural weight when the ground is unsteady, or the soil is too weak. They are also used in bridge or marine construction to create docks and working surfaces.

Transportation

Other popular uses for steel pipe include oil and natural gas transportation, as a covering to protect wires and cables, and of course, water and sewage transportation.

• Oil and Gas: Line pipe is a specific type of steel pipe made from high-strength carbon steel that is designed to transport oil and natural gas from the oilfield to tanks, trucks, or refineries. This type of pipe is also used as casing pipe, which protects other pipelines underground.
• Water: Steel pipe has long been used as water supply lines and at pump stations. Because of the steel’s resistance to rust and corrosion, it’s a great choice for water treatment facilities. Steel pipes are most commonly used for culverts and to create discharge lines in dewatering operations and pressure tests.

Depending upon the grade, type, and strength of pipe needed, steel pipes for transport can be either seamless or welded. Refer to the ATSM and ASME standards for specific guidelines for your project.

Buy and Sell Used and Surplus Steel Pipe with Eiffel Trading

In addition to a wide variety of used and surplus steel pipe for sale our online marketplace also has a large selection of used loaders, used dozers, used sheet pile, used wide flange beams, and much more for sale.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing for free.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe can be used in many different areas, including construction, marine, oil and gas, and municipal/agricultural applications – it’s suitable for above-ground, underground, underwater, and above-water/floating conditions. High-density polyethylene is a recyclable, extremely durable material that is commonly used in plastic bottles, plastic lumber, geomembranes, and more. The global market value for HDPE was over $63 billion in 2017 and is expected to reach $82 billion by 2023.We previously explained the guidelines for standard dimension ratio (SDR) for HDPE pipe. In this post, we’ll discuss HDPE pipe production and benefits, plus the many uses and benefits of HDPE pipe in the industrial or construction and oil and gas arenas.

Producing HDPE Pipe

HDPE pipe is made from thermoplastic HDPE, which is produced through a process called “cracking”, where extreme heat is applied to petroleum, creating ethylene gas. The ethylene gas molecules attach to each other to form polymers, which produces polyethylene. The result is a clear sludge, which is then molded into the desired shape (pipe, liner, bottles, etc.).When HDPE resin is put through the pipe mold, black carbon is added to the HDPE to create a UV-resistant product. This is why most HDPE pipe is sold as a black-colored pipe. Stripes are added to the pipe during production, which makes them unlikely to separate from or rub off of the surface.

Applications in Industrial & Construction

HDPE pipe is used in many municipal districts to transport drinking and waste water. It’s also used to supply water for irrigation projects, fire hydrants, and more. HDPE is commonly used in heavy-duty projects such as dewatering and dredging operations due to its high tensile strength and resistance to corrosion, cracking, and abrasions.This type of pipe can be placed using what is called a trenchless installation method. Trenchless installation allows contractors and engineers to install HDPE pipe without disturbing the ground surface or nearby pavement over the length of the pipe. Most methods involve feeding HDPE pipe into an auger, drill, ram, or something similar, to push the pipe to its desired location. The type of trenchless installation method used will depend on city or state regulations in your area.

Applications in Oil & Gas

HDPE pipe is a cost-effective alternative to steel pipe for many oil and gas/energy companies, and has been used in the industry for years. It’s used during fracking to transport frac water, and to collect and transport the hydrocarbons from pay zones. It can be used to transport liquids and natural gasses.HDPE pipe’s high tensile strength, resistance to chemicals, and low moisture absorption make it ideal for both water supply lines and all three production phases on an oilfield site. It is also used for raw and brine water, coal bed methane, landfill methane, and leachate. Its low permeability and 50+ year service life make it ideal for dangerous or hazardous materials and remote locations.

Benefits of HDPE Pipe

HDPE pipe is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution in many applications because it is non-toxic, has a low permeability, is resistant to many chemicals, abrasion, and corrosion, and is more lightweight and flexible compared to steel pipe. Additionally, HDPE pipe is resistant to mold, fungus, and bacteria.This type of pipe is also less prone to damage from shifting soil or earthquakes than other types of pipe. When two sections of pipe are joined together using various welding techniques, the joints are fused together to create a seamless, homogenous joint that is as strong or stronger than the existing sections. Unlike PVC pipe, the process of joining HDPE pipe sections does not require rubber joints or harsh chemicals.HDPE is weather-resistant in most situations. It can withstand extreme temperatures (-200 to 180 degrees Fahrenheit), which makes it a strong insulator and prevents it from cracking or bursting under freezing conditions.

Buy and Sell Used and Surplus HDPE Pipe with Eiffel Trading

Our online marketplace has used HDPE pipe for sale from 4 inches to 120 inches. Find and make an offer on the perfect size pipe for your next project today. Our customers are also using our marketplace to offer a wide range of used sheet pile, used barrier wall, and used wide flange beams.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing for free.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

As previously discussed here on the Eiffel Trading blog, steel sheet pile comes in several shapes and styles, and with several types of interlock systems. This, along with sheet pile’s reputation for high durability and its ability to be used over and over again, make it one of the most sought-after items in our online marketplace.Sheet pile has an exceptional service life. Certain environments are going to be harsher on your sheet pile installations than others, though. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common corrosion factors and tips to help extend the life of your steel sheet pile.

Corrosion

The most common factor of corrosion in steel is exposure to moisture and air over time. When steel is exposed to moisture, the environment in contact with the steel gains electrical conductivity, which weakens the surface of the steel. Common factors of corrosion include water and soil conditions, pollution, and weather.

Chlorides, pH Balance, and Salinity

Waters closer to the sea are more corrosive than freshwater due to higher salinities, but it’s also important to note that steel sheet pile in areas with a lot of water movement is going to be more affected than piles in areas with stationary bodies of water. Steel sheet piles used in marine construction or near saltwater are also susceptible to corrosion due to higher concentrations of salt in the air. Water with a pH of 7.2-8.2 are more likely to expedite corrosion.Soil with larger grains offer greater exposure to air on the surface of the sheet pile, and disturbed or backfill soil tends to hold more oxygen. Soil with a pH of 7 or greater are more acidic and will therefore be more corrosive to steel. Sheet piles driven into undisturbed soil are less likely to experience corrosion.

Pollution

Both saltwater and freshwater are prone to pollution. Water can be polluted with industrial water, sewage, spilled oil, and more. Some pollutants increase the oxygen level in the water by killing organisms that depend on it, others alter the pH balance of the water.Part of the reason soil may have a higher pH balance is contamination. Pollution, vegetation, and various chemicals can affect soil in different ways, which can have an effect on its interaction with steel (or other things, like water).

Weather

Wind and rain can have an effect on the surface of steel sheet piles, especially in marine construction situations or areas near saltwater. Wind can carry saltwater mist, and rain trapped in crevices can trigger corrosion as it creates damp conditions.

Protection

Steel will inevitably corrode during its lifetime, but by taking proper preventative measures, you can greatly extend the service life of your steel sheet pile. The most common preventative measures for protecting steel sheet pile include coating and using thicker or corrosion-resistant steel.

Corrosion-Resistant Coating

There are several options for sheet pile coating, which engineers should be aware of and take advantage of, especially in marine construction situations. Zinc coating is one of the most common types of corrosion-resistant coating; it can be applied by plating or hot-dipped galvanizing. Zinc coating will usually corrode before the steel is even attacked by the electrical conductivity.Another popular type of coating is epoxy or paint. These coatings are primarily used to prevent soil and atmospheric corrosion. The cost and durability of coating depends on the type used (paint is cheaper and effective, but coal tar is extremely durable and much more costly).Some coatings can also be applied after corrosion has begun, to prevent its spread. Steel sheet pile may be re-coated many times over its lifetime.

Corrosion-Resistant Steel

There is a marine-grade steel option. The ATSM has designated ‘ATSM A690’, Grade 50, as “mariner-grade” steel. Steel sheet piles made with ATSM A690 have a greater resistance to splash zones corrosion, thanks to added nickel and copper in the steel’s manufacturing process. Mariners’ steel has some of the longest service life of any treated steel sheet pile.Be Prepared to Experience Some Corrosion Over TimeAlways rely on the project engineer to help determine the chances and rate of corrosion, and to recommend ways to prevent or decelerate the process. This will enable you to use your sheet pile over and over again – or to sell it used and improve the ROI of your project!

Buy and Sell Used Sheet Pile with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading currently has several options for used sheet pile for sale (including PZ/PZC sheet pile, PS sheet pile, AZ/NZ/ZZ/Hoesch sheet pile, and cold-rolled sheet pile) as well as used combined wall systems available on our marketplace. Don’t see the type of sheet pile you need? Create a wanted listing for free today.Learn more about selling with Eiffel Trading to get started selling your used sheet pile and other materials today.If you would like more information or further assistance, call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Crane mats are a type of heavy equipment mat. Heavy equipment mats in general are built from extremely durable load-bearing materials designed to support the weight and movement of heavy machinery.Crane mats are also referred to generically as construction mats. This is because crane mats have a variety of uses aside from crane support and stabilization.Timber crane mats are durable enough to be re-sold and reused. In fact, used crane mats are often in high demand in our online marketplace. In this post, we’ll tell you what makes crane mats so indispensable to many contractors, and how to tell if the quality of the mats you’re shopping for are best suited for your project needs.

Design

Crane mats are made of heavy, solid timbers 8, 10, or 12 inches thick, which are joined together by steel bolts to create mats that are usually 4 feet or 8 feet in width, and up to 40 feet in length. The construction process allows contractors to use crane mats to create larger, different sized/dimensioned mats.The design, with uniform thickness, helps support and stabilize equipment while reducing impact to the environment. Using crane mats helps protect not only workers and equipment, but also the surrounding environment from damage like ground erosion, vegetation disruption, and changes in natural drainage flows.

Uses

In addition to their namesake usage – supporting the weight and movement of cranes – crane mats are strong enough to support a variety of other types of equipment. While crane mats can be used on any landscape, they are especially useful for construction work in remote areas or in work zones with uneven surfaces.

Cranes

Using crane mats as a stabilizer for large cranes primarily reduces the risk of the crane tipping over. But timber crane mats underneath cranes also serve to ensure that workers can operate the machine safely by allowing the crane a surface to stand firm on and hold its proper bearing – and that it doesn’t get stuck in the mid.

Temporary Roadways

Crane mats are often used to create temporary roadways to assist in getting equipment from one point to another. In addition to the reduction in environmental disruption, crane mats used as temporary roadways allow contractors to move equipment along a safe, sturdy path while avoiding bumps, holes, or other unforeseen hazards.

Bridge Decking

Crane mats used for bridge decking are often called bridge mats. Timber mats provide surface decking for bridges and similarly elevated areas to create a stable surface for walking, working, and equipment movement. Adding crane mats to bridges or decks creates a stable working area.

Excavation support

Similar to the way crane mats stabilize a crane, these mats can also be used to steady an excavator (or other digging machines) to prevent the machine from sliding or tipping over, which puts not only the equipment at risk, but the lives of all workers in the work zone.

Pipeline Construction

Crane mats used in pipeline construction allow pipe trucks and workers a safe surface to work and travel on without disrupting pipelaying progress or damaging the material. Crane mats can also be used as an air bridge over an existing line to keep traffic off of the pipe.

Grading

One thing to consider when preparing to purchase used crane mats is the grading. The classifications include Grade A, Grade B, and Grade C, and indicate quality and previous wear-and-tear.Grade A: Like-new, typically have been used once before. Minimal signs of use. All bolts and timbers are intact.Grade B: Still maintains structural integrity, but shows signs of wear-and-tear. All timbers are still intact, but the ends may be worn. A couple of bolt may be bent or missing.Grade C: Significantly worn. May be partially repaired or rebuilt. Missing or broken timbers and bent, broken, or missing bolts. May be used as filler for better mats.

Buy and Sell Used Crane Mats with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading currently has many new and used crane mats for sale, plus used cranes and used excavators to use them on.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing for free.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Pile drivers are devices used to drive piles into soil (or in some cases, underwater) to create support for buildings or other structures like retention ponds and dams. The most common driving piles are sheet pile, pipe pile and H-pile, but some types of pile driving hammers are capable of also driving timber and precast concrete piles.In this post we’ll examine four of the most common types of pile driving hammers: the diesel impact hammer, the vibratory hammer, the air/steam impact hammer, and the hydraulic impact hammer.

Diesel Impact Hammer

Diesel impact pile hammers are a type of drop hammer which utilize a two-stroke, or two-cycle, diesel engine. The lightweight hammers are powered through the ignition of a compressed diesel fuel and air mixture. There are four phases of operation:

1. The ram is raised, fuel is injected
2. Compression: The ram is released and free-falls. The exhaust port closes, which compresses air and fuel together
3. Impact and Combustion: The hammer reaches impact with the pile. The air/fuel mixture heats up due to the compression and combusts, or ignites
4. Expansion: The ram is driven upwards as a result of the impact with the pile. The ram’s rising draws in fresh air, beginning the cycle again until the hammer is manually stopped by the working crew, or until its fuel is depleted.

The free-fall hammer can be used to drive all types of steel piling. This type of pile driving hammer is renowned for its reliability. Additionally, diesel hammers are self-contained (no need for an external power supply) and are capable of reaching between 30-50 blows per minute for closed-end hammers, and 70-80 for open-end hammers.

Vibratory Hammer

Vibratory pile hammers use a spinning technique, a system of counter-rotating weights which are powered by hydraulic motors, to cut into soil, rather than driving a pile. Vibratory hammers are designed so that the horizontal vibrations of the hammer are canceled out by the vertical vibrations, which are transferred to the pile. This type of pile hammer can also be used up to around 3,300 feet under water.The hammer is lifted to be positioned over the pile with either an excavator or crane, then secured to the pile with hydraulic clamps. Vibratory pile hammers can be used to both drive piles into and extract piles from the ground. The most common types of piles extracted are sheet piles from temporary cofferdams and pipe pile from crane access trestle. An advantage of using a vibratory hammer over other types of pile driving hammers is that vibratory hammers operate at a much lower noise level than others. They also tend to drive piles quicker than other hammer types.

Air/Steam Impact Hammer

Air/steam impact pile hammers can be classified as either single-acting or double-acting. These external combustion hammers use an external power source such as air compressors or steam boilers to power the ram upward or downward.Single-acting air/steam hammers allow air or steam to raise the movable portion of the hammer and allows it to free-fall. This type of impact hammer can be readily used in all soil conditions, with an average of 50-60 blows per minute.Double-acting air/steam hammers allow air or steam to raise the ram of the hammer, and adds additional energy during downstroke for a higher frequency of blows (90-150 per minute). The hammer applies additional air or steam pressure to the top of the piston to enable shorter strokes.

Hydraulic Impact Hammer

Hydraulic impact pile hammers are a modernized version of the diesel impact hammer which use hydraulic power packs as its fuel source. Hydraulic hammers are capable of driving not only steel piles like pipe, sheets, or beams, but also timber and precast concrete piles. Some hydraulic hammers are also capable of reaching up to 80 blows per minute.In addition to the hydraulic hammer’s ability to drive steel, timber, and precast concrete piles, this type of pile hammer is considered more environmentally-friendly than its diesel hammer counterpart. Not only are there no exhaust fumes released into the air, the noise level from a hydraulic hammer is much lower than that of a diesel hammer.

Buy and Sell Pile Drivers and Hammers with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading currently has many pieces of used foundation equipment for sale, including pile driving machines, pile breakers, casing oscillators, and much more.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Sheet piles are interlocking, shaped sections of steel that are used to create structures like retaining walls and cofferdams. Retaining walls, by definition, are walls that hold back water or earth. These walls are designed to resist lateral pressures and prevent seepage.Some of the most widely-used sheet pile is the Z-shape, hot-rolled sheet pile. Z sheet piles are known by the continuous forms of the web, and the specific location of the interlocks. Z-pile’s specific shape help improve the accuracy of alignment during placement.We previously discussed some common steel sheet pile options, with ball-and-socket or thumb-and-finger interlocks. A third, very popular type of interlocking system is the Larssen interlock. Although the original Larssen sheet pile was a U-shaped section, all Z-shape sheet piles today are based on the original patent, which introduced the concept of the ‘wave shape’ to sheet pile.

The Larrsen Interlocking System

Tryggve Larssen, State Chief Engineer at the City of Bremen in Germany, obtained a patent for the world’s first deep, hot-rolled section. Prior to this, sheet piles had been largely made from wood, and any steel sheet piles were flat sections. Larssen’s patent created a wave shape when assembled, with alternating indents and outdents.The original Larssen sheet piles had the interlocks manufactured separately from the pile itself. The first rivet-less Larssen interlock was produced in 1914, a practice that continues today, with all Larssen interlocks fabricated upon the neutral axis.The Larrsen interlocking system is highly resistant to seepage because of its shape and tight connection. The interlocking system assists teams with pitching and driving by controlling the swing radius tightly. The AZ, NZ, ZZ, Hoesch, and ESZ variations of sheet pile discussed below all utilize the Larssen interlocking system, with the interlocks located on the neutral axis of the sheet.

AZ

AZ pile have wider profiles than PZ and PZC sheet pile, and thicker steel at critical corrosion points which helps improve its performance against corrosion. They have a consistent thickness throughout the flange and web.

NZ

NZ sheet pile are more light-weight and wider than traditional PZ and PZC sheet pile. Like the AZ sheet pile, NZ sections’ web and flange thicknesses are constant. Also similar to the AZ sheet pile: NZ sheet piles’ sections are named using its section modulus. NZ sheet pile is manufactured in the United States – as of the writing of this article this is the only Larssen interlock sheet pile that is U.S. domestic.

ZZ

Unlike AZ- and NZ-style sheet pile, ZZ sheet pile have an inconsistent flange and web thickness, though the differences are small: a ZZ19-700 has a web thickness of 9.5mm (0.375 inches), and a flange thickness of 9.6mm (0.378 inches). They are slightly lighter than same-width AZ and NZ sections.

Hoesch

Similar to ZZ sheet pile, Hoesch sheet pile’s web and flange thicknesses are inconsistent, though the differences are not always as small as above. The larger (and heavier) a section of Hoesch pile, the greater the difference: an H1707 has a web thickness of 8.7mm (0.343 inches) and a flange thickness of 8.5mm (0.335 inches), but an H3607 has 16.8mm (0.661 inches) web and 10.8mm (0.425 inches) flange thickness.

ESZ

ESZ sheet pile are deep-profiled sections that have a continuous web, which works to optimize shear load transfer. This type of sheet pile sports a deep profile. Because of this, the inertia is increased and deflection is reduced. Like the AZ and NZ sheet pile, ESZ sheet pile have a consistent web and flange thickness throughout.

Buy and Sell Used Sheet Pile with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading currently has many types of used sheet pile for sale (including PZ/PZC sheet pile, PS sheet pile, AZ/NZ/ZZ/Hoesch sheet pile, and cold-rolled sheet pile) as well as used combined wall systems.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing for free.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Sheet piles are structural steel sections that are connected with interlocking ends to form continuous sections. They are built to resist forces like water and soil, which makes them strong choices for things like retaining walls and cofferdams.One of the most popular items on the Eiffel Trading marketplace is used steel sheet pile. Though sheet pile also comes in timber, concrete, and vinyl, steel is by far the most widely-used in the construction industry. It is relatively easy to transport, and it can be reused for many different projects. Steel sheet pile provides a high-resistance, low-cost option for pile driving in today’s construction industry.Sheet piles are manufactured with male and female joints to create interlocking systems to form continuous walls. These steel joints are less likely to be damaged or deformed during pile driving. There is no one standard for interlocking systems on sheet piles; the primary goal for manufacturers is to create locking systems that are as water- or earth-tight as possible.In this post, we will examine a few of the different types of sheet pile available today, and their defining characteristics and applications.

PZ/PZC Sheet Pile

PZ/PZC sheet pile are hot-rolled “Z” shaped sections, with ball-and-socket connections.This type of sheet pile is identified by its type, shape, and a number which denotes the section’s weight, in pounds, per square foot. For example, a PZ 22 is a Z-shaped sheet pile that weighs 22 pounds per square foot.PZ/PZC sheet piles are commonly used for cofferdams, levee strengthening, and as retaining walls.PZ sheet pile sections are identified by their Z shape and the width of the sections, from the flange tips, end-to-end. PZC sheet pile sections are more light-weight, tend to be wider, and as such, are stronger than traditional Z-shaped sheet pile.The ball-and-socket interlocking connections are durable under driving conditions, but allow for flexibility in setting because it displaces less soil. PZC sheet pile’s ball-and-socket connections allow for greater degrees of swing and flexibility, making it easier to drive and set in precise layouts. Sheets are lined up before being placed, to allow the sections to lock together by securing the ball-shaped end into the socket and driving the sheets into place.

PS Sheet Pile/Straight Web Sections

PS sheet pile, also known as flat sheet pile, is a hot-rolled form of sheet pile that uses a thumb-and-finger interlocking system. PS sheet piles are offer minimal beam strength but are able to withstand severe setting and driving conditions because of its strong interlocking system. Whereas one of the biggest performance benefits of PZ/PZC sheet pile is its strength and resistance to bending, PS sheet piles are often used to create large, cellular cofferdams or arcs. PS sheet piles do not bend, but are subjected to hoop tension from the water or soil retained in its cell.PS sheet pile’s naming convention is the same as PZ/PZC sheet pile: P, for piling, S, for its style, and the number equal to the weight per square foot, in pounds. A PS 27.5 section of sheet pile is a flat sheet that weighs 27.5 pounds per square foot.Thumb-and-finger locking systems are similar to a ball-and-socket system, except that both joints are the same fixture. Again, the sheet piles are lined up before being driven, and are locked together as the piles are driven into the earth. The thumb-and-finger system is earth-tight and relatively watertight once in place.

Cold-Rolled Sheet Pile

A lower-cost alternative to hot-rolled sheet pile is the cold-rolled sheet pile. This type of sheet pile can be produced quicker than any hot-rolled sheet pile. It also requires careful alignment during placement. Cold-finished sheet pilings are made to have a constant thickness throughout the web and flanges, and have a shallower depth than hot-rolled PZ/PZC sheet pile. Some manufacturers also offer cold-formed sheet pile in U- or Omega-shapes.The most important difference between hot-rolled and cold-rolled sheet pile is its interlocking system. Hot-rolled sheet piles have tighter interlocks than cold-rolled sections, which makes this type of sheet pile better for use in softer driving conditions.

Buy and Sell Used Sheet Pile with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading currently has many types of used sheet pile for sale (including PZ/PZC, PS, AZ/NZ/ZZ/Hoesch sheet pile, and cold-rolled sheet pile) as well as used combined wall systems.Don’t see the type of sheet pile you need? All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing for free.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Construction companies operate in a very competitive industry, and the bid selection process is no different. Putting together a strong bid takes time and effort. The bid’s budget estimates should include legal, administrative and insurance costs, site preparation costs including utilities – all in addition to labor, time, and equipment and materials costs.How should you approach bidding to ensure that the time spent preparing isn’t wasted? Read below to learn 5 ways to win the bid.

Know your niche

Find your unique selling point, or USP. What does your company excel at? What can you do better than your competition? One-stop-shops sound great, but many project owners are looking for experts. It’s better to do a few things at an expert level than to be simply average at many different things.When trying to nail down your niche, think about your interests and passions. Make a list of the top 5-10, then start to narrow it down. Research competitors for each idea. Then, do some research on what potential customers need, or have questions about. Can you fix those problems, or answer those questions with authority and confidence? It’s OK if you aren’t an expert today – if it’s an area you’re interested in, you’re more likely to do the legwork and stick with it long-term.Consider a new marketing approach based on your newly determined niche(s). Present your company as THE expert in the field.

Do your homework

Attend pre-bid meetings and conduct site visits. This will give you a better understanding of current site conditions so that you can factor things like accessibility, transportation, storage, and more, into your bid. Pre-bid meetings allow contractors the opportunity to ask questions about specifications or the project itself, but if questions come up later on, be sure to reach out to the project team and get clarification.Accuracy mattersFollow the instructions for the bid exactly as written. Take time to carefully examine the plans and specifications to help calculate accurate measurements and takeoffs. Incorrect measurements lead to miscalculations, which can cost you the bid. Consider cost-estimating or takeoff software to help ensure accuracy of your measurements and materials needed.

Bid early

One way to ensure your bid is reviewed is to bid as early as possible. Take advantage of the various construction project trackers or bidding marketplaces available online and monitor them for upcoming projects in your area. This way, you can start to prepare your bid, and submit it, sooner than your competition. Be the first one with your foot in the door and avoid missing the bid deadline down the road.

But don't bid too often

Another consideration is the frequency with which you choose to submit bids. You’ve narrowed down your specialties and have found what separates you from the competition. Not every project will be right for your organization – and it’s OK not to bid on every single opportunity out there. Winning the bid for a project your company can’t properly complete can be more costly than losing a bid outright. Reputations can be damaged overnight. Additionally, putting in fewer bids means that the ones you do choose to work on can be prepared more thoroughly.

Buy used (and save $$$)

Be sure to include subcontractor and labor costs, as well as estimates for any equipment and material needed to complete the project. Purchasing used construction equipment and material can save money over purchasing brand new assets. Plus, when using a marketplace like Eiffel Trading, material can be resold after use to increase ROI on the project (not to mention, purchasing used equipment and materials means avoiding rental fees altogether).To help keep costs down, consider purchasing used heavy equipment and materials like used sheet pile, used HDPE pipe, used barrier wall, and used H-pile.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing for free.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.