What is a Continuous Flight Auger?
A Continuous Auger (also known as a CFA) involves a process which is vibration free and one of the quietest forms of piling. This is particularly useful if a project is in close locality to urban zones and is ideal for environmentally delicate areas. Piles can be formed in most site conditions including water-bearing areas, sand, clay and soft rock.
The CFA construction process.
CFA piles are formed by drilling to the required depth using a hollow stemmed continuous auger. After reaching the desired depth, concrete is them pumped through the stem. As the concrete passes through, the auger is withdrawn at a measured speed removing the soil and forming a chute of fluid concrete up to ground level.
After this, a reinforcing cage (rebar) is then inserted into the fluid concrete to create a durable pile.
This type of piling is often used when retaining walls are required during shoring or excavation. Once initial piles are set with concrete, other shafts are augered between them and have rebar’s added creating a continuous wall of reinforced concrete. This practice ensures workers are protected during excavation.
The below diagram demonstrations how a continuous auger works.
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