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Eiffel Trading’s Biggest Ticket Items of 2021

2021 was an incredible year for the Eiffel Trading team! Not only did we revamp our online platform to increase both functionality and user experience, we also worked closely with both buyers and sellers on many transactions. In addition to saving our buyers money, we simultaneously helped our sellers make top dollar on their demobilized assets!We strive to help our customers succeed through timely and cost-effective acquisition of new, used, surplus materials and equipment. Our goal is to build lasting relationships with our customers! Repeat business is how we define success.

NUMBER 1

Unsurprisingly, crane access trestle was our biggest ticket item this calendar year! Specifically, this crane access trestle was designed for a 300T crane. Our team sold 2.7 million pounds of this trestle system in just two weeks - pretty incredible! The spans of the system consisted of W36x232 beams, W36x210 beams, W36x135 beams, W24x146 beams, and more.Check out our current crane access trestle here!

NUMBER 2

The second big ticket item of 2021 is this AZ sheet pile transaction, which was also one of our quickest transactions of the year! Valued at over $600,000, these AZ sheets were formerly part of a king pile combi-wall system in the southeast.In the market for sheet pile? Click here to check out our inventory!

NUMBER 3

Another big ticket transaction this year was Vermeer PD-10 Pile Drivers! These pile drivers were valued around $525,000 and the transaction included three 2019 units. These pile drivers were shipped from the pacific to the midwest region to make for a happy customer and a happy seller! That’s a win-win in our books!View all foundation equipment inventory here.

NUMBER 4

The fourth big ticket transaction of 2021 was one of our favorites - steel pipe pile! This 24”x0.500” steel pipe listing lended itself to many large transactions this year, including this specific transaction which transported over 800,000 lbs to the northeast region. That’s over 20 truckloads!Click here to check out our steel pipe inventory!

NUMBER 5

We can’t write an article without mentioning one of the hottest items of 2021 - steel h-pile beams! We had hundreds of inquiries on HP10, HP12, & HP14 beams this year. This HP14x73 beam transaction was a team favorite. We facilitated the transaction to include cutting the beams from 70’ in length to 35’ in length. In total, we shipped over 170 of these beams down south.View h-pile inventory here!

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

We look forward to the opportunities that 2022 will bring! No matter the challenge, we enjoy assisting our customers. If you’re in the market to buy or sell, give us a call at 800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com!Want to check out all of our current inventory? Click here!
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Eiffel 101: Pile Driving Safety Gear

The purpose of foundation piling is to transfer the weight of a structure from the topsoil to the stronger soil or rock below. This is achieved through the use of piles, which are driven into the ground using a pile driver. Before installing piles, all personnel should have the proper safety gear to ensure they can carry out their work safely and efficiently. Here, we cover an overview of pile driving as well as the proper equipment and clothing needed to avoid injury on the job.

Pile Driving Equipment: An Overview

In order to install a pile, one of two methods can be used: replacement or displacement. Displaced piles are driven, jacked, vibrated or screwed into the ground, displacing the soil around the pile. Replacement piles, on the other hand, are installed by removing the soil to form a hole in the earth, which the pile is then set into.As the name suggests, pile drivers drive piles into the earth through displacement. There are several types of pile drivers, including air hammers, diesel hammers and vibratory hammers.

Air Hammer

Air hammers use compressed air and can be either single-acting or double-acting. Single-acting air hammers are semi-automatic and consist of a heavy failing cylinder sliding up and down a fixed piston, which is raised by steam or compressed air. Double-acting air hammers are made of a cast iron cylinder that stays stationary on the pile head while the hammer delivers rapid blows using compressed air. Double-acting air hammers are most often used when conventional hammers are prohibited by reduced headroom.

Diesel Hammer

Diesel hammers are self-contained units suspended from a crane or slide-in leaders rested on the top of the pile. A falling steel cylinder creates the driving action, raised by the explosion of gas from the automatic injection of fuel.

Vibratory Hammer

Vibratory hammers install piles through the use of vibration rather than hammer blows, which reduces the ground resistance around a pile and allows the pile to pass into the earth. Vibratory drivers can be either low or high frequency. The vibrators are powered by diesel-hydraulic power units.

Piles: An Overview

Foundation piles come in many different types, including pipe pile, sheet pile, H-pile and wide flange beams.

Pipe Pile

Steel pipe pile is used to create a strong foundation for large, heavy structures such as buildings, bridges and roads. The piles are made of steel pipe that’s driven or drilled deep into the ground in order to help distribute the weight of a structure down to the stronger soil or rock below. There are several different types of steel pipe piling including unplugged open ended, plugged open ended, bottom plate, steel pipe with rock shoe, and more. Different types of pipe pile will work better for different projects, depending on the nature of the soil and the weight of the structure that’s being supported.

Sheet Pile

Sheet piles are a steel sheet material with interlocking edges that are driven into the ground for applications such as earth retention systems, bridge foundations, and to support excavation projects. Unlike other types of pile, sheet pile acts more like a wall and is commonly used for retaining walls, land reclamation, car parking lots, basements, riverbank protection, seawalls and cofferdams. The interlocking system of sheet piling allows for easy positioning and driving of the piles, as well as creating a close fitting joint that can be brushed with sealant to be made watertight.

H-Pile

H-piles are similar to pipe pile in their function, but differ from pipe pile in their shape. H-piles are structural beams that are dimensionally square, with the same thickness in the flange and web. When compared to other types of pile, the H-pile beam design provides better weight distribution over a wider area and can support larger and heavier structures, such as tall buildings and factories. Individual piles have been tested to withstand loads of 1,000 tons.

Wide Flange Beams

Wide flange beams are a structural steel shape that include a central web that connects two parallel end units, known as “flanges.” Wide flange beams differ from h-pile beams in that they are not symmetrical in width vs. depth, nor do they have the same thickness in flange and web. Because of this, w-beams are available in larger sizes than that of h-pile. For example, h-pile beams are typically available with 8”, 10”, 12”, 14”, and 16” flanges. On the other hand, wide flange beams have flanges ranging from 8” to 36”. Wide flange beams are extremely strong, and used to create deep foundations for bridges, highways, buildings, and more.

Pile Driving Safety Gear

A pile driver is a large, heavy-duty piece of machinery that deserves caution when operating. Before beginning a project, it’s important that all personnel have the proper safety gear to ensure they can carry out their work safely and efficiently. Such safety gear includes:

Hard Hats

Work Gloves

  • Gloves should fit snugly so that they do not get caught in equipment or rigging.
  • Consider potential exposure or hazards that are specific to the task when selecting glove types, such as rubber, leather, cotton, neoprene, or cut resistant.

Safety Glasses

Safety Toed Footwear

Hearing Protection

  • Time weighted average (TWA) should not exceed 90dB. If it does, double the hearing protection may be required.

Safety Vest

Proper Clothing

  • Wear long pants.
  • Clothing should be fitted. Avoid baggy or loose clothing that can get caught in equipment or rigging.
  • Secure long hair so that it does not get caught in equipment or rigging.
  • Wear long-sleeve shirts for protection where appropriate, such as during welding.
  • Wear welding hoods with clear safety glasses when required. Wear face shields and burning glasses or goggles when burning, and face shields and safety glasses when grinding.
  • In addition to hearing, face and eye protection, wear protective chaps when using a chain saw.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace is the leading platform for buying and selling used, surplus, and new materials and equipment. Our steel piling inventory includes the following: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.
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What Is a Beam and Plate System?

Beam and plate shoring systems a type of pit shoring system that can remain in the ground for an extended period of time. These systems have excavation applications and are typically used as an alternative to side rail and tight sheeting. Beam and plate shoring systems offer large free-span work areas and are usually cheaper than other, similar systems.

Shoring System Overview

Shoring systems, including beam and plate shoring systems, are used during excavations in order to reinforce trench walls and prevent cave-ins. They provide enhanced safety for both personnel and those in nearby structures, and can be used for a wide range of applications, including tank installations, near restricted areas, railroads, areas with poor soil conditions, bore pits, pump stations, linear pipeline runs, and more.

Beam and Plate System Components: Steel Plates, H-Pile and Wide Flange Beams

Beam and plate shoring systems have excavation applications that utilize steel plates and beams such as H-pile and wide flange beams. These systems are engineered as an alternative for other shoring systems, and they are often used to install tanks, linear shoring walls, and more.

Steel Plates

Steel plates (also known as shoring plates) are large, flat plates most commonly used to cover potholes, excavations, trenches, damaged pedestrian walkways, roads that are under construction, and along trench boxes during excavation for utility construction and repair. The purpose of a road plate is to provide a temporary surface for traffic to pass over while construction is underway. Beam and plate shoring systems can utilize steel plates as part of their composition.Shoring plates are made of steel that is commonly at least one inch thick. They sometimes feature engineered lifting devices (such as lifting rings) for easy installation. Though shoring plates are often 1-inch to 1.5-inches thick, their thickness can vary depending on the project.

H-Pile

H-piles are a type of steel piling. They’re as wide as they are deep and have the same thickness in the flange and web. H-piles can support large and heavy structures, such as tall buildings and factories. Although they can be designed for skin friction, the H-pile shape is most effective at transferring loads through the pile to the end. Beam and plate shoring systems can utilize steel H-pile as part of their composition.

Wide Flange Beams

Wide flange beams are a type of support material that include a central web connecting two parallel end units, known as “flanges.” While the flanges in an h-pile beam are relatively narrow and symmetrical in shape, those in a wide flange are much broader, sometimes even equal in length to the height of the web. Wide flange beams have high loadbearing capacity while also being light in weight, which is what makes them a popular choice in construction and foundation projects. Beam and plate shoring systems can utilize steel wide flange beams as part of their composition.

Beam and Plate Considerations

Before installing a beam and plate shoring system, it is important to consider the depth of the soil, the depth of the water table, whether there are other nearby structures, and soil conditions. Depending on these factors, an engineer should look at a project and design a shoring system that will fit its needs.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace is the best source of used and surplus heavy civil materials. Our steel inventory includes used steel plates, used wide flange beams, used h-pile beams, used sheet pile, and much more. In addition, we offer other material types ranging from used hdpe pipe, to used crane mats, to used concrete barrier wall, and 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.
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Eiffel 101: Common Questions about Crane Mats

Do you have questions about crane mats? Below are some answers to some of the most asked questions about them.

Where should crane mats be used?

Crane mats can be used anywhere you want to offer more ground stability for heavy equipment like cranes. They are particularly useful in marshes, wetland locations, swamps, and on uneven ground.

Which types of equipment can be used on crane mats?

All types of cranes and other equipment are suitable for use on crane mats. For instance, boom cranes and excavators are commonly operated on crane mats. Any heavy equipment that doesn’t rely on outriggers is a great choice for use on crane mats.

Why should crane mats be used?

Crane mats offer adequate bearing for cranes and other machinery. They allow cranes as well as other heavy machinery to operate with greater efficiency and ease. They also enable greater project safety by stabilizing the operation of equipment and machines. Cranes and other machinery are much less likely to topple over if crane mats are used.

Are there other benefits to using crane mats?

Yes! They also help mitigate unnecessary damage to the landscape. You don’t have to worry about cranes and machinery digging tracks in the ground or otherwise stirring up the area. Additionally, they help prevent equipment from getting mired in the mud.

What sorts of projects are crane mats good for?

Crane mats are frequently used for: pipeline construction, heavy civil projects such as bridge and highway construction, oil and gas projects, utility jobs, renewable energy construction (including wind turbine construction), bridge construction, excavation projects, and projects that involve crane access trestle.

What are some common crane mat sizes?

Crane mats are sold in a range of sizes. Popular sizes are between 4’ to 8’ wide, 8” to 1’ thick, and 15’ and 50’ in length.

What are crane mats made of?

Crane mats are made of various kinds of timber including oak, mixed hardwood, and Douglas fir. Their ends are frequently painted with wax lumber. Some crane mats are “composite,” which means they’re made of materials other than timber, including plastic, rubber, and fiberglass.

What are the grades of crane mats?

If crane mats are graded, they may be considered “Grade A,” “Grade B,” or “Grade C.” Grade A mats are in excellent condition (like-new). Grade B mats have small surface-level damage that does not impact their ability to do their jobs. Grade C mats are the roughest around the edges and may have some quite noticeable wear and tear, but they’re still useable for most applications.

What are lifting bolts?

Lifting bolts are steel through-bolts. They can be attached to the bottom of crane mats and support their width. Lifting bolts are useful for loading crane mats onto truck beds, and they also simplify the unloading and installation process.

Can I resell my crane mats?

Absolutely! Crane mats are meant to be used for several projects. Once you’re done using them, selling them can be an excellent option to help you make some extra money. This is especially true if your used crane mats are in favorable condition. Typically, the used market has the most demand for grade A, AB, and B conditions. Occasionally, we also have inquiries for lower grade crane mats for various applications.

How do I care for my crane mats?

There are a few different things you can do to ensure your crane mats stay in good condition. First off, keep them clean. Before and especially after use, you should pressure wash them to remove any plant growth or residue. You should also transport them with care, so they don’t get damaged en route to a project. Additionally, careful installation and removal of crane mats as well as proper storage when they aren’t in use is advised.If you’re in the market to buy some crane mats for an upcoming project, consider exploring the options offered by the used market. As mentioned, crane mats are meant to be re-used, and you can lower your project costs by buying pre-owned rather than new.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace boasts a plethora of heavy civil and marine material options, including used crane mats, brand new steel plates, used HDPE pipe, and more. In addition to material, our equipment inventory ranges from used push boats, used slide rail systems, used concrete formwork, and 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.
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Eiffel 101: Vibratory Hammer Routine Safety Checklist

To install a foundation pile, it must be forced into the ground. This is often done using a pile driver. A vibratory hammer is a unique type of pile driver because—instead of using large weights to strike piles into the earth—it uses vibrations to reduce the earth’s resistance, which reduces the friction between the pile and the ground. Employing this technique, new piles can be driven quickly and quietly, and old piles can be extracted efficiently. Using a traditional pile driver, it might take up to an hour to drive a 100 foot pile into the ground, but with a vibratory hammer, that same pile can be installed in minutes.

Vibratory Hammer Routine Inspection Checklist

Before operating a vibratory hammer, the following steps should be taken to ensure the machinery is in good working order.• Inspect large elastomers for cracks.• Remove any damaged wire ropes.• Inspect the shackle pin cotter key and nut.• Inspect small elastomers for cracks.• Inspect the pop off safety valve for leaks.• Inspect hoses for wear.• Inspect all bolts on the elastomers to ensure they are well-tightened.• Inspect the line pull pin for damage.• Inspect the motor couplers for leaks.• Inspect the suppressor mounting bolts to ensure they are well-tightened.• Inspect all bearing covers for damage.• Inspect all welds for cracks.• Inspect oil levels in gearbox.**• Inspect the breather valve on the center of the motor bearing cover;remove any paint that could block the breather.• Inspect the hose clamp securing clamp lines for damage.**• Inspect the condition of the hose bundle for cracks or damage.** When checking the oil level, if you can't read the level then you should not operate the machine. Remove the sight gauge and spray it with WD40 to clean the glass, then replace. Avoid overfilling the oil or the unit will overheat. If the oil level on the gague automatically increases, it indicates a bad motor shaft seal, which can result in hydraulic oil entering the gearbox. If this happens, remove or replace the motor while the hammer is laying on the ground and the motor is facing the sky. Consult the manufacturer for further instructions.** Generally, when mounting a new clamp, you should use a straightedge to check machined surfaces on the bottom of the hammer and the top of the clamp. Inspect the surface to ensure it is clean and flat. Don't drive piles if any of the clamp mounting bolts are missing. If the clamp attachment falls off, it's because the bolts are not properly tightened.

Vibratory Hammer Routine Safety Checklist

Before operating a vibratory hammer, the following steps should be taken to ensure all workers remain safe.• When operating the vibratory hammer in an enclosed space, pipe exhaust fumes outside. Breathing exhaust fumes can cause serious injury and even death.• When servicing batteries, avoid any type of spark or open flame. Batteries generate explosive gases during charging and there should always be proper ventilation when handling.• Never adjust or repair the unit while it is in operation.• Keep the workspace clear and clean. Remove all tools and electrical cords from the area before starting the unit. Never store flammable liquids near the engine.• Never stand under a vibratory hammer.• Always keep a look out for loose bolts or leaking hydraulic lines.• Avoid pulling on hose quick-disconnect fittings. If the hoses don’t reach, move the power unit closer to the working area. Never use hoses as a tow line to tug the power unit.• Avoid kinks in the hoses, as they can reduce the hose safety factor.• Always wear eye and ear protection when operating a vibratory hammer.• Avoid standing downwind of vibrating piles. Dirt and other matter may become airborne and fall into unprotected eyes.• Always wear a hardhat, gloves, and safety shoes when working with or near a vibratory hammer.• When moving, driving or extracting pile, always attach safety line between pile and crane hook.• Lay the hammer down on ground when not in use.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace boasts a wide variety of heavy civil equipment and material options; our equipment inventory ranges from used vibratory hammers, to used shoring towers, to used sectional barges, and everything in between. In addition, our steel piling inventory includes brand new h-pile beams, used pipe pile, used h-pile beams, used sheet pile, 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 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.
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Eiffel 101: Pile Hammer Safety Checklist

Before operating a pile hammer, the following steps should be taken to ensure the machinery is in good working order and that all workers understand proper procedures to avoid injury.

Pile Hammer Safety Checklist: Before Beginning

Before beginning a project there are a few initial steps that should be taken to ensure everyone understands the objective and what to do in case of emergency.• Check that a first-aid kit is onsite and fully stocked.• Ensure that at least one employee is trained in first-aid in case of emergency.• Research and provide clear, written directions to the nearest hospital in case of emergency.• Provide the phone numbers of people who should be contacted if an accident occurs.• Meet with employees to explain the safety rules. Print out a copy of the rules for the employees to take home and review.• Have the superintendent review the project’s safety information and operating plan.

Pile Hammer Safety Checklist: Site Conditions

Site conditions play a large role in the overall safety of a pile hammer’s working environment. Before operating a pile hammer, take the following steps.• Keep work areas free of loose materials or debris.• Walkways that are more than four feet off the ground or in a hazardous location should feature a secure handrail with a toe board.• Drain any muddy area onsite (when possible) and provide plank runways across trenches if necessary.• Sand slippery walkways.• Salt walkways in freezing weather.• If night work is to occur, construction areas should be properly lit.

Pile Hammer Safety Checklist: Operating a Pile Hammer Safely

Before operating a pile hammer, take these steps to ensure the machinery is in good order and to avoid worker injury.• Read the operator’s manual for your hammer to ensure proper assembly, disassembly and operation.• When lifting piles with a pile hammer, ensure that the connection between the rigging and the pile hammer is strong enough for the task.• Check that all bolts on the hammer are properly tightened.• Inspect the hammer before each shift and periodically during the shift for bolts that may come loose.• Ensure the hammer cushion is large enough and that there are no cracks in the hammer components.• Wear hearing protection when the hammer is operating.• When working on the hammer in the leads, ensure that all tools used have been retrieved and returned to the ground.• When the hammer is operating maintain a safe working distance from the pile and leads.• Never stand under the hammer or pile.• When transporting a hammer in the leads, remove the drive cap assembly from the hammer and bind hammer so that the piston cannot come out of the cylinder.• Ensure the hammer is adequately restrained from downward movement in the leads when working under the hammer.• Ensure hammer remains on the pile throughout installation.• Never leave a running hammer unattended.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading is a one-of-a-kind centralized marketplace for used, surplus, and new assets in the heavy civil & marine sectors! Our marketplace boasts a wide range of used hammer options including used impact hammers, used vibratory hammers, used drill rigs, and more. Furthermore, our steel pile inventory includes used sheet pile, used pipe pile, brand new w-beams, 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 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.
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What are the Components of a Vibratory Hammer?

Unlike traditional pile drivers that use large weights to strike piles into the earth, vibratory hammers use vibrations to reduces the friction between a pile and the soil, which allows the pile to “sink” easily into the ground. Employing this technique, new piles can be driven quickly and old piles can be extracted efficiently.Vibratory hammers come with a number of benefits. While traditional pile drivers are disruptively loud, vibratory hammers are quiet. Furthermore, vibratory hammers are lightweight, they can be used underwater, they are more nature-friendly since they don’t disrupt wildlife with loud noises, they can both drive and extract piles from the ground, they are easy to transport and maintain, and they are more cost effective than traditional drivers. Finally, vibratory hammers drive a wide range of piles, including pipe pile, sheet pile, wide flange beams, h-pile beams, and more.To operate, vibratory hammers rely on four main components: the vibration suppressor, vibration case, hydraulic clamp, and power unit.

Vibration Case

The vibration case contains high amplitude eccentric weights with a gear that rotates on a vertical plane to create a vibration. For hydraulic vibratory hammers, the eccentric weights are driven by hydraulic motors mounted on the vibration case. The eccentrics and motor shafts are mounted on a heavy-duty cylindrical bearing. Oil pumps circulate oil between the vibration case and radiator to reduce heat in the vibration case, preventing overheating.

Vibration Suppressor

The vibration suppressor is mounted on top of the vibration case. Its purpose is to isolate vibrations, making the hammer more efficient and preventing the vibrations from disrupting unwanted areas. Vibration suppressors allow for pile extraction.

Power Unit

The power unit gives a vibratory hammer its energy. Depending on whether the hammer is electric or hydraulic will determine what kind of power unit the vibratory hammer is fitted with. The power unit also comes equipped with an emergency stop button, which allows any user to shut off the hammer quickly and safely.

Hydraulic Clamp

The hydraulic clamp is the part of the vibrator that grips the pile or tube to hold it in place while it is being driven or extracted. Without the hydraulic clamp, the pile would slip out of place, and driving would not be possible. Hydraulic clamps are typically comprised of two gripping jaws, one which is fixed and unmoving, and one that is moveable. The moveable clamp opens by increasing its distance from the fixed clamp, and closes by decreasing its distance from the fixed clamp. Hydraulic clamps are high-strength and can hold a wide range of piles in place, including pipe pile, sheet pile, wide flange beams, and h-pile beams.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading is a one-stop-shop for your heavy foundation projects! Our foundation equipment inventory includes used vibratory hammers, used pile breakers, used drill rigs, and everything in between! Furthermore, we boast a large selection of steel piling materials including used sheet pile, brand new h-pile beams, brand new h-pipe pile, 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 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.
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Eiffel 101: Steel Pile Installation Safety Guide

If there is a soft layer of soil at the surface of a construction site, or if an exceptionally heavy building is being built, the soil will not be able to support the weight of a new structure. Because of this, foundation piling must be used. The purpose of foundation piling is to transfer the weight of a structure from the soil’s surface to the stronger soil or rock below. This is achieved through the use of steel piles, which are drilled or driven into the ground.

The Four Types of Steel Pile

Sheet Pile

Sheet piles are blocks of sheet material with interlocking edges that are driven into the ground to create earth retention systems and to support excavation projects. Unlike other types of pile, sheet pile acts more like a wall and is commonly used for retaining walls, land reclamation, car parking lots, basements, riverbank protection, seawalls and cofferdams. The interlocking system of sheet piling allows for easy positioning and driving of the piles as well as creating a close fitting joint that can be brushed with sealant to be made watertight.

Pipe Pile

Steel pipe pile is used to create a strong foundation for large, heavy structures such as buildings, bridges and roads. As the name suggests, the piles are made of steel pipe that’s driven or drilled deep into the ground in order to help distribute the weight of a structure down to the stronger soil or rock below. Pipe piles range in size from several inches to several feet in diameter, and they can be connected to create a pile that is hundreds of feet in length.

H-Pile

H-pile is similar to pipe pile in function, but differ from pipe pile in shape. H-piles are structural beams that are dimensionally square, with the same thickness in the flange and web. When compared to other types of pile, the H-pile beam design provides better weight distribution over a wider area and can support larger and heavier structures, such as tall buildings and bridges.

Wide Flange Beams

Wide flange beams include a central web that connects two parallel end units known as “flanges.” Contrary to h-pile beams, wide flange beams are not dimensionally square though they have a similar shape. W-beams range in flange size from less than 8” to 36”. Wide flange beams have high loadbearing capacity while also being light in weight, which is what makes them a popular choice in construction and foundation projects.

Steps for Safe Pile Installation

Here are a few essential steps to complete pile installation safely.
  • Only allow workers who are trained on the specific hazards of the operation to enter the work area where pile driving operations are occurring.
  • Do not allow anyone to stand under the outrigger, hammer or pile. Essential employees should stand to the sides or the rear of the leads during installation of the pile, while nonessential workers remain out of the fall zone.
  • Guide the top piles under the hammer from the ground whenever possible so that no one has to climb the leads to set the pile under the hammer.
  • Alert all employees of the pile hoisting operations before they begin.
  • Remove all foreign material such as frozen earth or tack-welded steel from the piles before being spotted for driving.
  • Hoist the piles in a manner that prevents accidental detachment from the hoisting equipment’s rigging.
  • Whenever diesel hammers are being fueled, check the oil reservoir and refill as necessary. Grease all fittings on all pile driving hammers at least once per shift (or as recommended by the hammer manufacturer).
  • Only allow one designated person to signal to the pile driving rig operator, except in an emergency.
  • When setting up over a pile location, steady the leads by hand. When the signal is given, the leads will be dropped so they stab into the ground.
  • No one should move under the hammer, leads, or pile as they are suspended in the air, or during driving of the pile, except when momentarily positioning leads over pile hub or inserting or removing pile gates.
  • Shut down the pile hammer when removing the rigging from the pile being driven and or removing the alignment gates at the bottom of the leads.
  • Check for pile plumbness as the pile is being driven. Stop the driving and replumb the pile if necessary, before the pile is driven too deeply.
  • Draw foot marks on the pile (as needed) so the length of the driving can be determined.
  • Use caution when rolling or turning piles to avoid injury.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace is the most trusted source for used and new steel piling materials. Our inventory includes the following: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.
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How are Crane Mats used in Oil and Gas Transmission?

Oil and gas transmission projects often involve working in uninhabited and isolated areas. These areas can present problems in terms of physical access for both workers and machinery. They can also involve delicate ecosystems that should be minimally disrupted. Crane mats can be a major asset to oil and gas transmission projects because they improve physical access for workers and machinery as well as help prevent disturbance to ecosystems. Crane mats are an excellent choice for several different applications in the oil and gas industry.

Oil and Gas Projects: Utility of Crane Mats

Crane mats can create temporary roadways and bridges for workers, vehicles, and equipment to reach remote and wet areas for pipeline construction and other oil and gas projects. Most crane mats are made of sturdy and supportive timber, which is easy to transport and install to create temporary access roads and to offer ground stabilization for the use of heavy equipment like cranes.Crane mats are ideal for use on uneven ground as well as in wetland areas, marshes, and swamp areas. They offer sufficient bearing for cranes, vehicles, workers, and various types of machinery. Additionally, they enable cranes and machinery to be operated with more stability and control. The chances of machinery toppling over due to inadequate ground support is unlikely when crane mats are used.Another benefit of crane mats is that they minimize the disruption of natural environments, as previously mentioned. They protect the ground underneath them and provide easy access to locations so that a smaller surface area is impacted by machinery, vehicle, and foot traffic. This translates into projects having less of negative impact on the ecology of affected areas.To summarize, crane mats can be applied in the following ways:
  • As temporary roads for vehicles, machinery, and workers
  • To offer general access to hard-to-reach locations
  • As temporary bridges over water for worker and equipment access
  • To provide ground stabilization for heavy machinery like cranes

Buying and Selling Crane Mats

There are a lot of options for buying crane mats of different sizes and load bearing capabilities. Once you know what specs you need from crane mats for your project, you can explore a wide array of both new and used mats on the market. Oftentimes, you can find the right crane mats for the job on the used market. Buying used can offer you the quality you need while save you money. Just make sure you’re aware of the condition and grade of any crane mats before you purchase. You want to make sure they’re in good enough shape to get the job done safely and securely.Crane mats are built to last for several cycles of projects, if well maintained. If you’re done with your crane mats and don’t plan on using them for a future endeavor, it may be an excellent choice to sell them. There are plenty of interested buyers, and, since crane mats are stackable and so easy to transport, getting them to a buyer can be quite simple.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace is the hottest platform for buying and selling used, surplus, and new materials and equipment. In regards to materials, our inventory includes used crane mats, used crane access trestle, brand new h-pile beams, and more. Furthermore, our equipment options range from used concrete formwork, to used drill rigs, and everything in between.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.
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Eiffel 101: Components of a Slide Rail System

Slide rail shoring is a type of modular component shoring system that’s used in place of driven tight sheeting or build-in-place timber shoring systems. Slide rail shoring is unique in that it employs a “dig and push” installation method that allows for quick, efficient setup. Furthermore, this dig and push method can reduce cave-ins and trench collapse that might occur during the excavation, and which is common in other excavation methods.Slide rail shoring systems can be used for a wide range of applications and provide enhanced safety for both personnel and those in nearby structures. When used properly, these systems allow for exceptional pipe clearance and large free span work zones.

Slide Rail System Components

Due to their design, the components of a slide rail shoring system require only smaller, more accessible machines during installation and removal than those needed to dig the same excavation using tight sheeting or trench shields. Furthermore, the individual components of a slide rail system are lighter and easier to handle than large trench shields.Slide rail shoring systems are comprised of the following components.

Panels

Slide rail panels look similar to trench shields and are built to withstand the most challenging job site conditions. Standard sizes are available from 4’ to 8’ high and 32’ long, though sizes can often be customized to fit specific job needs.

Long Panels

Panels longer than 32 feet eliminate the need for linear rails and strut carts on certain projects.

Corner Rails

Corner rails are designed to be set at the corner of a three or four sided system, which allow the side rails to be connected at right angles. Corner rails come in many different sizes to fit a wide range of needs.

Linear Rails

Like corner rails, linear rails allow the connection of side rails to enable multiple bay systems. Linear rails come in different sizes and can fit standard, medium and heavy-duty needs.

Strut Carts and Unique Strut Carts

Strut carts are used in conjunction with linear rails as spreaders to help maintain the stability of a system. Strut carts come in a range of styles to support different job site needs and can feature exclusive floating double roller bearing that assures constant support and uniform load bearing.

Open Track Design

A slide rail open track design allows panels to be swung into place at ground level, rather than having a larger machine to lift the panels to the top of the rails for installation. Furthermore, the open track design removes the potential interference of overhead obstructions during system installation and removal. This enables a quicker installation and removal along with the use of a smaller machine for installation.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace is a one-stop-shop for your heavy civil and marine needs! Our equipment inventory includes used slide rail systems, used sectional barges, used concrete formwork, and so much more. In addition, we boast a wide range of materials including used hdpe pipe, brand new steel plates, used pipe pile, and more.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.
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