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What Is a Trench Box?

A trench box is a system installed to protect workers while they’re digging or excavating the earth. Trench boxes are also known as trench shields, sewer boxes, manhole boxes, or tap boxes. They give a trench stability and allow laborers to work in peace knowing that even if the trench collapses, the pressure and weight of the soil will not trap them.

Trench Box Design

Trench boxes are designed to withstand pressure from the earth surrounding them. Trench boxes are made from aluminum or steel with sidewalls of varying thicknesses held apart by spreaders or other trench box panels. Spreaders are beams that are placed perpendicular to the plates and function as braces. All the components of a trench box are welded together to make the system stable.Trench box systems are designed so that workers can move easily out of the trench box. This is crucial, especially during an emergency.

Trench Box Benefits

Trench boxes have two main benefits: they improve the stability of a trench and provide protection for the workers.A trench box is a necessary addition to trench work because it stabilizes the site. Without a trench box, the excavation site is more likely to cave in. This is especially valuable for long-term projects since a trench box system can extend the “life” of a trench.Excavation work can be hazardous to laborers, and cave ins have been known to take place even after safety precautions are taken. Trench boxes allow for extra protection and minimizes the risk of injury to workers while they’re on the job.

Trench Box Safety

A trench box can be used in combination with other protective systems, such as sloping and benching, for additional safety. Furthermore, as trenches get deeper, trench boxes can be stacked on top of one another to provide the required protection for workers. Each trench box must be designed to resist the pressure of the earth at the level where it’s being used.Safety regulations exist to ensure trench boxes are used appropriately. The maximum depth at which the trench box system can be used in a safe manner is determined by the depth rating regulations.

Trench Box Resale

Trench boxes are often made of steel, which is a durable, long-lasting material that holds up well under pressure and after multiple uses. For this reason, steel trench boxes hold their value and can be resold after use.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace exists for heavy civil contractors to purchase and sell their assets; including equipment such as used trench boxes, used shoring systems, used pile drivers, and much more. In addition, our material inventory includes brand new steel plates, used hdpe pipe, precast concrete traffic barrier, etc.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 Different Types of Pile Hammers?

When installing foundation piles, they must be forced into the ground. This can be done in one of two ways: either by driving the piles or by drilling the piles. Here, we’ll examine the four main types of pile hammers: diesel impact hammers, steam hammers, hydraulic impact hammers, and vibratory hammers.

Diesel Impact Hammer

A diesel impact hammer (also called a diesel pile hammer) is a type of pile driver powered by a large, two-stroke diesel engine. The driving weight is located in the piston (the ram), and the apparatus that connects to the top of the pile is called the cylinder. The process goes like this:
  • Piledriving begins by raising the weight of the impact hammer (usually using a cable from the crane that holds the pile driver). This draws air into the cylinder.
  • Diesel fuel is released into the cylinder.
  • The weight is dropped using a quick-release mechanism.
  • The weight of the piston compresses the mixture of air and fuel, heating it to the diesel fuel’s ignition point.
  • The mixture ignites, shifting the energy of the falling weight to the pile head and driving the weight upwards.
  • The rising weight draws in fresh air, and the cycle continues until the fuel is depleted, the pile has reached its point of refusal, or the process is manually terminated.
The pile being driven into the ground is given a temporary cap to avoid damage while it is being hammered. The pile is hammered until “refusal,” which is when the pipe will physically go no farther.

Steam Hammer

A steam impact hammer, also called a steam hammer or a drop hammer, is a type of pile driver powered by steam. The hammer of a steam impact hammer is attached to a piston that can slide up and down vertically through a cylinder. The process works like this:
  • The hammer is raised over a pile by the pressure of steam, which is injected into the lower part of the cylinder.
  • When the pressure is released, the hammer drops.
  • The force of gravity brings the hammer down and it hits the pile, driving the pile into the soil.
The weight of a steam impact hammer’s ram can range from 500 to 50,000 pounds, and can be altered depending on the requirements of the project.

Hydraulic Impact Hammer

A hydraulic impact hammer works by placing a weight above a pile that releases, slides down vertically, and hits the pile, thereby hammering it into the ground. Hydraulic impact hammers are favored in situations where the soil is loose, since driving the piles into the ground compresses the surrounding soil and therefore causes greater friction. This friction increases the load-bearing capacity of the pipe piles.Hydraulic impact hammers come with a range of features and benefits. They are easy to operate and simple to maintain with little to no special training needed. Most hydraulic impact hammers produce a high impact with a relatively low hammer weight and can be assembled on different carriers.

Vibratory Hammer (“Vibro Hammers”)

Vibratory hammers (also known as “vibro hammers”) are an alternative to traditional pile drivers such as those listed above, which use a large weight to strike piles into the ground. Vibratory hammers work by vibrating the soil using weight and counterweights, which causes a pile to move easily into the earth, similar to how an electric knife might cut through meat. Unlike traditional pile drivers, vibratory hammers are quiet, lightweight and can be used underwater. Additionally, they are more nature-friendly than traditional drivers since they don’t disrupt wildlife with loud noises.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

At Eiffel Trading, used pile driving materials and equipment are our bread-and-butter! We offer various types of pile drivers including used vibratory hammers, pile drivers, impact hammers, and more. Furthermore, our piling material inventory ranges from used steel sheet pile, to used steel pipe pile, 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 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 an Open-End Pipe Pile?

It is useful to define an open-end pipe pile in relation to the alternative, a closed-end pipe pile. A closed end pipe pile has a bottom opening that is covered with a steel plate or conical tip. This steel plate is sometimes referred to as an end cap. Open end pipe piles do not have an end cap (steel plate or conical tip). Both closed end pipe piles and open-end pipe piles come with unique advantages that make them better suited to particular applications. Open end pipe piles are much easier to drive into hard soils than closed end piles. Open end piles are an excellent choice for applications that involve driving piles into soil that contains rock layers and small boulders.

Driving Shoes

It is common for open end pipe piles to be fitted with driving shoes. Driving shoes increase the toe capacity of piles and help prevent damage and fracture due to stress and pressure. Because soil plugs frequently form in open end pipe piles, a water jet may be used inside the pipe pile to remove soil. If soil plugs do not present a problem during the pile driving process, they do not necessarily have to be removed. If open end pipe piles are filled with concrete, soil must be removed from inside of them before a pour begins.

Open End Pipe Pile Applications

Open end pipe pile is particularly popular for projects involving oil and gas platforms as well as wind turbines. It is the pipe pile of choice for the energy sector for many applications. Open end pipe piles provide resistance in the face of tidal forces and heavy winds, and they are ideal for driving into marine as well as extra rocky areas. Open end pipe piles can be particularly helpful for applications that require superior columnar strength. Jetties and berths are good examples of this.

Soil Conditions

As mentioned, open end pipe piles are the better choice (as opposed to closed end pipe piles) for driving into hard soils. They are also specifically a better option for the following two types of soil conditions:
  • When a dense layer of soil is beneath a soft layer of soil: In these soil conditions, soil is often removed from inside the pipe piles, and the piles are filled with concrete.
  • When a dense layer of soil is beneath a layer of soil with medium density: In these soil conditions, open end pipe piles are almost always preferable as opposed to closed end pipe piles because driving closed end pipe piles through soil of medium density and then significant density is quite a challenge.
In sandy areas or areas where soil is not particularly dense or hard, closed end pipe piles may be a more useful choice. Both open end pipe pile and closed end pipe pile are widely available in a variety of sizes, configurations, and strengths. Choosing the proper pipe pile for your project should take into consideration factors like soil type, load bearing capability requirements, overall needs of the project, weather and climate conditions, etc. Luckily, there are a wide array of both new and used pipe pile options on the market, and finding the right pipe pile for your job should be fairly simple!

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace boasts a plethora of new and used structural steel options; our inventory includes used pipe pile, brand new wide flange beams, used access trestle, and so much more. In addition, we also help contractors buy and sell used equipment ranging from used concrete formwork, to used push boats, 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 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 Vibro Hammer?

To install a foundation pile, it must be forced into the ground. This is often done using a pile driver. A vibratory hammer (also called a vibro hammer) is a unique type of pile driver; unlike traditional pile drivers that use large weights to strike piles into the earth, vibratory hammers use vibrations to drive piles. Employing this technique, new piles can be driven quickly and quietly, and old piles can be extracted efficiently.

How Vibratory Hammers Work

Vibratory hammers use vibrations to reduce the earth’s resistance, which reduces the friction between the pile and the ground. This reduction in friction is what allows the pile to be driven (or extracted) with ease. Vibratory hammers create their vibrations using spinning weights and counterweights, and the vibration causes a pile to “cut” into the soil below.While a traditional pile driver works like a hammer and a nail (a weight or ram strikes the pile and forces it into the ground), a vibratory hammer works more like an electric knife cutting through meat (the high speed vibration causes the soil to give way, allowing the pile to slip easily into the ground). 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 about 10 minutes.

Vibratory Hammer Components

Vibratory hammers have four main parts:
  • Vibration suppressor
  • Vibration case
  • Hydraulic clamp
  • Power unit

Vibration Suppressor

The vibration suppressor is mounted on top of the vibration case to isolation vibrations and allow for pile extraction.

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.

Hydraulic Clamp

The hydraulic clamp is the part of the vibrator that grips the pile or tube. A hydraulic clamp uses two gripping jaws, one which is fixed, and one which is moveable.

Power Unit

The power unit powers a vibratory hammer. Depending on whether the hammer is electric or hydraulic will determine what kind of power unit the vibratory hammer includes. The power unit also comes equipped with an emergency stop button.

Vibratory Hammers Benefits

  • Vibratory hammers come with a number of benefits.
  • While traditional pile drivers are disruptively loud, vibratory hammers are quiet.
  • Vibratory hammers are lightweight and user-friendly.
  • They can be used underwater.
  • They are more nature-friendly since they don’t disrupt wildlife with loud noises.
  • Vibratory hammers can be used near residential areas without noise complaints.
  • They are smaller and easier to maneuver than traditional pile drivers.
  • They can both drive and extract piles from the ground.
  • They same time and money because they can drive piles faster.
  • They can be used depending on both the crane and the excavator.
  • They use both hydraulic and electrical energy lines.
  • They are easy to transport and maintain.
  • They are more cost effective than traditional drivers.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace allows heavy civil contractors to buy and sell new, used, & surplus materials and equipment. Our heavy civil equipment inventory ranges from used vibratory hammers, to used sectional barges, to used shoring towers, and everything in between. In addition, we boast a wide-range of materials, including used hdpe pipe, used traffic barrier, new steel plates, 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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How Can I Successfully Deploy Steel Road Plates?

Steel road plates are large sheets of metal used to cover potholes, excavations, trenches, damaged pedestrian walkways, and roads that are under construction in order to provide a temporary surface for traffic to pass over. Steel road plates are commonly at least one inch thick and sometimes feature hardened threaded weld nuts and engineered lifting devices (such as lifting rings) for easy installation. Many plates come with a skid-resistant texture that’s applied to the surface to prevent vehicles from sliding on the steel, especially in wet conditions.Steel road plates can be installed seamlessly when the appropriate machinery is applied. However, since steel road plates require machinery for installation, the plates are not a short-term fix and are usually deployed for long periods of time. Because of this, it’s important to plan and deploy steel road plates thoughtfully.• Before installing steel road plates, make sure enough time has been set aside for proper installation and removal of the plates.• Do not attempt to install steel road plates without the correct use of mechanical lifting equipment.• Map out the appropriate safety zones for the installation and removal of steel road plates, keeping in mind that plates can swing when they’re in the air during installation.• Prepare proper bedding material, which will be necessary whether the plates are surface mounted or recessed. Fill gaps and edges accordingly.• Plates should always resist displacement by traffic, so after the plates are installed, check immediately for displacement by traffic loading.• Plates should be crossable by all types of travelers, including vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. Check that the plates do not present a hazard to any type of road user.• Install a warning sign for pedestrians and road users if the steel road plate creates a ramp.• It’s important to inspect and maintain plates on a regular basis, so create a daily schedule for plate maintenance. Ensure that plates are always easily accessible in order to do this, and that—should an issue arise—the plates can be fixed wherever they are set.• Choose the most appropriate plates for the situation and environment.As with all road projects, consult a structural engineer and conduct full site surveys before beginning construction. A steel road plate’s proper size, thickness and deployment plan will need to be formally assessed by a qualified professional to meet all state and local requirements for bridging an excavation site.Have you heard? In addition to our used and surplus steel plate inventory, Eiffel Trading now offers brand-new steel road plates for sale. Our brand-new offerings include various thickness options, including 0.500”, 0.750”, 1.00”, 1.25”, 1.50”, 1.75”, and 2.00” steel plates.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace is a one-stop-shop for heavy civil contractors! We specialize in structural steel shapes, including used crane access trestle, used steel pipe pile, new h-pile beams, among many more. Furthermore, we boast a wide variety of equipment options, including used drill rigs, used concrete formwork, used shoring towers, 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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Eiffel 101: Road Plate Safety Checklist

Road plates are large, flat sheets of steel most commonly used to cover potholes, excavations, trenches, damaged pedestrian walkways, and roads that are under construction. They are also used 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.Road plates are also known as steel plates, crossing plates, trench plates, iron mats, metal sheets and steel road plates. In order to properly install and use a road plate, certain safety precautions must be taken. Here is a checklist that can be used as a non-comprehensive starting point when choosing and installing road plates.
  • Choose the proper dimensions for the road plate, ensuring there is at least one foot of overlap of the road plate and firm ground on all four sides.
  • Secure the edges of the road plate properly and feather with asphalt.
  • If more than one plate is being used to cover a single hole, they must be welded together.
  • On uneven roadways, road plates should be countersunk.
  • Choose road plates with an anti-skid coating or tread to prevent accidents.
  • Paint the road plate’s edges for extra visibility.
  • Place warning signs before the road plate to warn travelers of the uneven terrain.
  • Evaluate trench and roadway conditions every day before using a road plate and at the end of every workday to ensure the plate is in good working condition.
  • Notify authorities of road plate locations in the winter when the plates may cause hazards.
Before installing a steel road plate, it’s important to consult with a structural engineer and conduct full site surveys to ensure the zone is suitable for the plates. Steel road plates can be safe and effective when proper precautions are applied.Have you heard? In addition to our used and surplus steel plate inventory, Eiffel Trading now offers brand-new steel road plates for sale. Our brand-new offerings include various thickness options, including 0.500”, 0.750”, 1.00”, 1.25”, 1.50”, 1.75”, and 2.00” steel plates.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace allows contractors to both purchase and sell new, used, and surplus steel, including sheet pile, pipe pile, w-beams, access trestle, and more. In addition, our inventory also includes hdpe pipe, traffic barrier, 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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Eiffel 101: Foundation Equipment Overview

Here at Eiffel Trading, we sell a wide range of used foundation equipment including augers, casing oscillators, clean out buckets, drill rigs, drilling buckets, hammer grabs, impact hammers, pile breakers, pile drivers and vibratory hammers. In this article, we take a look at each.

Augers

An auger is a tool used for drilling holes in the ground. They include a rotating helical screw blade called a flighting, which acts as a kind of conveyor belt to siphon out the drilled material. Typically, they’re used to install things like decks, telephone poles and solar posts. In construction, augers are used on drilling rigs to dig holes for things like deep foundation piles or retaining walls. Augurs are especially useful in instances where many holes of the same depth and width must be dug for a single project, as they allow for continuity and save on time and labor.

Casing Oscillators

A casing oscillator is a tool used to drive and extract large steel casings from the earth. Steel casings are commonly installed underground to protect things like utility lines from being damaged, either from natural elements or from human activity.Additionally, casing oscillators can also be used to drive cased drilled shafts into the earth. Drilled shafts are required when ground conditions are too unstable for drilled holes to be stabilized on their own, and ground loss must be controlled. The steel pipe drill casings can be temporary or permanent.

Clean Out Buckets

A clean out bucket is a specialized drilling tool used to remove spoil from holes during foundation drilling to create a clean base for the piling. Clean out buckets can also be used to flatten the soil at the bottom of a hole so that when the pile is inserted, the tip of the pile has a firm, flat surface on which to rest. Unlike drilling buckets, clean out buckets don’t have cutting teeth, but they’re similar to drilling buckets in other ways. Specialized clean out buckets called “muckout” buckets can be used to remove loose materials when drilling slurry is present, allowing liquids to pass through while holding onto the loose materials at the bottom of a drilled hole.

Drill Rigs

A drill rig is a construction system that serves a variety of purposes, all of which involve drilling into the earth’s surface. Drill rigs can be large, such as those used to create oil or water wells, or small and mobile. Drill rigs can sample subsurface mineral deposits, test rock properties, install underground utilities, and more. The term “rig” generally refers to the complex system of equipment used to penetrate the surface of the earth’s crust for this variety of purposes.

Drilling Buckets

A drilling bucket is a piece of equipment used to drill into cohesive and non-cohesive soil below groundwater level. Drill buckets come in a range of styles and are suitable for breaking and ripping hard soil and medium-hard rock.

Hammer Grabs

A hammer grab is a piece of equipment used for boring piles. The main function of the hammer grab is to excavate bored piles of soil, gravel and soft rock layers so that the pile can be filled with poured concrete and made permanent. A hammer grab consists of the grab body, body extensions (also called guides), slide box, pulleys, crown, catcher, wire socket, rods for the shovel, and the shovel. Each of these components works together to excavate bored piles of soil and gravel.

Impact Hammers

When installing foundation piles, they must be forced into the ground. This can be done by driving the piles using an impact hammer, of which there are three main types: diesel impact hammers, steam hammers, and hydraulic impact hammers. All three of these impact hammers have different power sources (as can be noted in their names), but they work in a similar manner, which is to place a weight above a pile that releases, slides down vertically, and hits the pile, thereby hammering it into the ground.

Pile Breakers

A pile breaker is a piece of construction equipment used to cut foundation piles. Pile breakers are commonly used in pillar construction and demolition projects to crush the concrete part of a pillar without damaging the steel reinforcements encased within. The advantage of pile breakers is that they create a perfectly horizontal pile cutting finish without damaging the reinforcement or leaving cracks below the cutoff level.

Pile Drivers

Pile drivers are a broad term that includes impact hammers and vibratory hammers, and they are used to install foundation piles. In order to install foundation piles, they must be forced into the ground. This can be done in one of two ways: either by driving the piles or by drilling the piles. There are four main types of pile drivers: diesel impact hammers, steam hammers, hydraulic impact hammers, and vibratory hammers.

Vibratory Hammers

Unlike traditional pile drivers that use large weights to strike piles into the earth, vibratory hammers use vibrations to drive piles. Employing this technique, new piles can be driven quickly and quietly, and old piles can be extracted efficiently. Vibratory hammers create their vibrations using spinning weights and counterweights, and these vibrations reduce the earth’s resistance, which reduces the friction between the pile and the ground. This lessening in friction is what allows the pile to be driven or extracted with ease.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace was designed to help contractors purchase and sell heavy civil assets, and foundation projects are our bread-and-butter! This includes the foundation equipment mentioned above, including used drill rigs, used impact hammers, used vibratory hammers, and more. Additionally, we have a wide-reaching structural steel inventory including used steel sheet pile, used pipe pile, brand new wide flange 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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Eiffel 101: 4 Types of Truckable Vessels

Truckable vessels are an appealing option for marine construction, bridge construction, and dredging projects. These vessels can easily and efficiently be transported using 18-wheelers. This feature significantly simplifies what it takes to get them from one area to another, and it helps reduce the costs associated with transport. Truckable vessels are versatile and can be used for numerous applications. They are also easy to sell and are built to last, which makes them an enticing option for buyers who are hoping to save some money by buying used. Below are three of the most popular types of truckable vessels with some information about their possible uses:

1. Sectional Barges –

These are also sometimes referred to as “truckable barges.” They are made up of modules or sections that connect with one another to create desired sizes of platforms. Sectional barges are popular for bridge construction, dredging, and marine projects. Ideal platforms for cranes and other heavy equipment, sectional barges serve as reliable floating work platforms when they are in use. They are designed to easily be stacked atop 18-wheelers. This simplifies their transport considerably in comparison to other types of barges. Poseidon and Flexifloat are the two top manufacturers of sectional barges. The sections that make up sectional barges are typically designed to attach to each other with the use of pins/bolts or built-in locking systems.

2. Truckable Push Boats –

A truckable push boat is a push boat that is sized and engineered for truck transport with either a detachable or hinged pilot house. Like any push boat, a truckable push boat pushes large vessels to desired locations in rivers and inland waterways. In comparison to other push boats, truckable push boats come with the added benefit of simplified transport due to their size and design. The typical size of truckable push boats is up to 25’ in length and around 10’ to 15’ in width. Their single screw or twin-screw engines can produce between 200 hp and 1000 hp, making them an attractive option for many projects involving the transportation of non-self-propelled large vessels in inland water areas.

3. Truckable Tugboats –

Truckable tugboats are quite similar to truckable push boats except they pull larger vessels instead of push. Like truckable push boats, truckable tugboats are small enough in size to be transported using a truck. Sections of truckable tugboats may detach to make them easier to load onto trucks. The pilot houses of truckable tugboats are either detachable or hinged (able to be lowered down to lay flat on the surface of the boat).

4. Truckable Spud Barges –

Truckable spud barges are a type of barge with several “spuds”, that can be driven into the floor of the waterway and used as stakes to anchor the vessel. While spud barges vary greatly in size, truckable spud barges are easily transportable by truck. In addition to their spuds, spud barges are known for their wide, flat deck. The combination of the spuds and flat deck provide a stable working platform for small equipment.

Final Thoughts

Truckable vessels can help you cut transport costs for your project and simplify one important aspect of your project. If you’re looking to invest in a truckable vessel, there are both new and used options available on the market. Finding one to suit your needs at the right price is incredibly doable. On the other hand, if you’re the owner of a truckable vessel that you do not plan on using for a project in the foreseeable future, you may want to consider selling. Truckable vessels retain their value well, and you’ll find that there is no shortage of interested buyers.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace allows for easy acquisition of used heavy civil equipment and materials. Truckable vessels are one of the most sought-after inventory items that we sell. Typically, our inventory includes all of the aforementioned truckable vessel types, including truckable sectional barges and truckable push boats. Furthermore, our material offerings range from used hdpe pipe, to brand new steel plates, to __<a href="https://www.eiffeltrading.com/marketplace/traffic-barrier?utmsource=blog&utmmedium=Blog&utm_id=Website-+3." target="_blank">used precast barrier wall</A>__, 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: 5 Tips for Selling Steel Pipe Pile

If you’ve decided to sell your used or surplus steel pipe pile, you’ve made a great choice. Selling will help you make some extra money off your steel pipe pile and help you clear out some precious space in your yard. Now’s a great time to sell your used and surplus pipe pile too because the steel market is booming and brand-new steel prices are at their highest. If you’re wondering how to get the most out of your selling experience, here are five tips to help you out:

1. Take Good Photos

High quality photos are the best way to show off your used steel pipe pile and catch the attention of potential buyers. You don’t have to be a professional photographer or have professional photography equipment to take decent pictures of your steel pipe pile, though. Most smartphones have adequate cameras for the job. Make sure you take pictures in good lighting, preferably outside in the daylight. And make sure your camera’s lens is clean. It’s also helpful to take photos of the pipe pile from various angles. Since some buyers forego their inspection, having a multitude of photos from different angles can make or break a deal!

2. Uninstall Before You Take Pictures

If you’re selling surplus steel pipe pile, this doesn’t apply, but if you’re selling used pipe pile, make sure it’s removed from the ground and cleaned off. You want your buyers to have a good idea of what kind of condition it’s in, and they’ll be able to better assess this if they can see all portions of the pile and if it looks presentable and ready to use.

3. Sell for a Reasonable/Realistic Price

You’ll likely sell your pipe pile faster if you list it for a competitive price. Make sure you do some market research to determine the average selling price of used pipe pile before you decide on your price. The price you settle on should also partially depend on factors like where the pile is located. If the steel pipe pile is in an area that is far away from other projects, you might want to lower your price to account for things like additional transportation costs.

4. Be Honest About Imperfections

Honesty is the best policy, especially when it comes to selling your pipe pile. Be sure to note any damage or defects to the pile. If damage or dents may compromise the steel pipe pile’s ability to do its job, this is particularly important to note. You don’t want to fool buyers upfront and have to deal with issues from dishonesty down the road.

5. Remember to List Pertinent Info and Specs

If you have information handy, be sure to list the grade of your steel, the pipe pile’s brand or manufacturer, its size in diameter, the quantity of pipe pile available, and any other information you believe buyers should know. The more information, the better. You want potential buyers to be informed about everything your pipe pile has to offer so they have a chance to make an informed decision about whether your listing is right for their project.Selling your steel pipe pile can be a quick and simple process. Just be sure to give potential buyers what they need to know about the pipe pile and set a fair price!

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Did you know the Eiffel Trading marketplace allows you to both buy and sell materials and equipment? Structural steel is our bread-and-butter, and our inventory includes used steel pipe pile, brand new h pile beams, used sheet pile, used access trestle, and much more! Furthermore, our used equipment offerings range from used sectional barges, to used pile breakers, 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: Concrete Piles vs. Steel Piles

Though steel piling and concrete piling have similar functions, they are not interchangeable. Each requires a different installation method and works over varying parameters. The best piling material for any project will depend on the project’s structural details, budget, longevity and loadbearing requirements.

Foundation Piling Overview

Piling is a type of underground foundation that’s made of long steel or concrete columns. These columns create a strong foundation for large, heavy structures such as buildings, bridges and roads that could not otherwise be supported by the topsoil.Foundation piling works by transferring a structure’s weight from the loose topsoil to the stronger soil or rock below. There are two main types of steel pipe foundation pilings: end bearing piles and friction piles.With end bearing piles, the bottom end of the pile rests on an underground layer of strong soil or rock. The end of the pile presses against this strong layer to keep from shifting, and the load of the aboveground building is transferred through the pile onto the strong underground layer.Friction piles work more like a wedge in the soil. The friction of the soil around the pile is what holds the pile in place, and this is what transfers the weight of the aboveground load to the soil.

Concrete Piling Applications

Concrete piling is most commonly used as a foundation repair method for residential homes and light commercial facilities. It is created using heavy duty concrete columns pushed deep into the earth to provide support for the foundation.

Steel Piling Applications

Much like concrete piles, steel piles are pushed into the earth to create a foundation for heavy structures. Steel offers a higher tensile strength than concrete, and this increased durability and enables steel piles to be driven further into the ground. When building the heaviest structures like skyscrapers, stadiums, highway bridges, and towers, steel piling is used.

Steel vs. Concrete Piles

Concrete Piles

  • Best used for residential or light commercial applications
  • Weaker than steel piles
  • Less costly than steel piles
  • Shorter lifespan than steel piles
  • Cannot be resold easily and isn’t made for reuse

Steel Piles

  • Best used for the heaviest structures like bridge and highway foundations
  • Stronger than concrete piles
  • More expensive than concrete piles
  • Longer lifespan than concrete
  • Can be resold easily and works well for reuse

Common Steel Piling Sizes

Wide flange beams and h-pile are two common steel piling beams, which come in the following sizes:
  • W8: W8x18, W8x21, W8x24, W8x28, W8x31, W8x35, W8x40, W8x48, W8x58, W8x67
  • W10: W10x22, W10x26, W10x30, W10x33, W10x39, W10x45, W10x49, W10x54, W10x60, W10x68, W10x77, W10x88, W10x100, W10x112
  • W12: W12x26, W12x30, W12x35, W12x40, W12x45, W12x50, W12x53, W12x58 ,W12x65, W12x72, W12x79, W12x87, W12x96, W12x106, W26x120, W12x136, W12x152, W12x170, W12x190, W12x210, W12x230, W12x252
  • W14: W14x22, W14x26, W14x30, W14x34, W14x38, W14x43, W14x48, W14x53, W14x61, W14x68, W14x74, W14x82, W14x90, W14x99, W14x109, W14x120, W14x132, W14x145, W14x159, W14x176, W14x193, W14x211, W14x233, W14x257, W14x283
  • W16: W16x26, W16x31, W16x36, W16x40, W16x45, W16x50, W16x57, W16x67, W16x77, W16x89, W16x100
  • W18: W18x35, W18x40, W18x46, W18x50, W18x55, W18x60, W18x65, W18x71, W18x76, W18x86, W18x97, W18x106, W18x119, W18x130, W18x143, W18x158, W18x175, W18x192, W18x211, W18x234
  • W21: W21x44, W21x50, W21x57, W21x58, W21x55, W21x62, W21x68, W21x73, W21x83, W21x93, W21x101, W21x111, W21x122, W21x132, W21x147, W21x166, W21x182, W21x201, W21x223, W21x248, W21x275
  • W24: W24x55, W24x62, W24x68, W24x76, W24x84, W24x94, W24x103, W24x204, W24x117, W24x131, W24x146, W24x162, W24x176, W24x192, W24x207, W24x229
  • W27: W27x84, W27x94, W27x102, W27x114, W27x129, W27x146, W27x161, W27x178, W27x194
  • W30: W30x90, W30x99, W30x108, W30x116, W30x124, W30x132, W30x148
  • W33: W33x118, W33x130, W33x141, W33x152, W33x169
  • W36: W36x135, W36x150, W36x160, W36x170, W36x182, W36x194, W36x210, W36x232, W36x256
  • HP8: HP8x36
  • HP10: HP10x42, HP10x57
  • HP12: HP12x53, HP12x63, HP12x74, HP12x84, HP12x89, HP12x102, HP12x117
  • HP14: HP14x73, HP14x89, HP14x102, HP14x117
  • HP16: HP16x88, HP16x101, HP16x121, HP16x141, HP16x162, HP16x183

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace boasts a wide variety of steel piling options, including: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.
  • And more!
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