Rapid impact compaction MENARD

Rapid Impact Compaction (RIC) consists of shallow ground densification using energy waves from a hydraulic hammer.

Presentation and key elements

What is it?

Rapid Impact Compaction is a high-frequency, controlled energy, soil compaction technique. A compaction plate is placed on the targeted ground area. A hydraulic hammer, generally weighing less than 10 to 15 tonnes, is fitted to an excavator and used to transmit compaction energy to the soil via repeated impact.

When and why use it?

Rapid Impact Compaction is widely used to densify loose granular soils (sand or gravel) as well as loam fill and industrial brownfield sites for surface compaction, foundations and floor slab support, liquefaction mitigation, and waste stabilisation. The principle of the technique is the transmission of energy into a compressible/ loose soil layer to improve its geotechnical properties.

💡 Menard’s tip

Without specific site precautions, a safe working distance to sensitive structures can usually be defined on the order of 8 to 10 m, as a distance of 5 to 6 m can usually be adapted for classical structures. At that distance, noise levels are lower than 90 dBA!

CMC techniques for soil

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