Micropiles for SEMAT Steelworks

Works completed:

• 5,000 m of self-drilling bar micropiles

Project overview

At the Acciaierie Venete plant in Padua, Cos.Idra carried out foundation strengthening works in an active industrial environment with demanding technical and operational requirements.

Scope of works

The project involved the installation of self-drilling micropiles designed to carry high loads and improve the structural performance of the existing foundations. Works were carried out using high-strength self-drilling bars, with micropiles up to 20 metres long, followed by load testing and technical verification to confirm performance.

Operational challenges

A key challenge was working within a live manufacturing facility, in restricted spaces and without disrupting ongoing industrial operations. To meet these conditions, different drilling rigs were used depending on the specific site constraints, ensuring operational flexibility and precision throughout the project.

To meet the project schedule, the site operated on a continuous 24-hour shift pattern over the Christmas period, accelerating progress without affecting plant operations.

Results

The works successfully strengthened the foundations while maintaining full operational continuity and meeting the required schedule. Organising the site on a 24/7 basis made it possible to operate efficiently in a complex live industrial environment without interfering with production.