Projects & Experience
Our extensive equipment capacity allows us to scale operations and handle multiple projects efficiently.
TerraSystems holds the record for the tallest structure founded on soil improved by dynamic compaction. This structure was a 35-story hotel at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT.
Our Notable Projects
Airport Hilton
TerraSystems holds the record for the tallest structure founded on soil improved by dynamic compaction. This structure was a 35-story hotel at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT.
What is Dynamic Compaction
Dynamic compaction is a specialized ground improvement technique utilized for compacting old fills as well as soft or loose natural soils. This method has consistently proven to be an effective and economical alternative to preloading, deep foundations, deep vibratory compaction, and undercutting and replacement.
The Process
These dynamic stresses are generated by the impacts of heavy steel weights or tampers, which are dropped from heights of up to 70 feet on a predetermined grid pattern.
Crater Formation
The impact forms a crater at the drop point that may be up to 7 feet deep.
Backfilling
The craters are then backfilled by pushing or dumping either on-site or imported fill material into them.
Multiple Passes
Depending upon the level of improvement required, several phases or passes of high-energy tamping may be needed.
The "Ironing" Pass
Following the completion of high-energy tamping, a closely-spaced low-energy (or "ironing") pass is generally performed to compact the crater backfill material.
How Much Improvement is Possible?
The results of dynamic compaction are highly customizable based on the project parameters:
- The overall degree of improvement is dependent on the total energy applied to the ground.
- We use various correlations to select the appropriate applied energy to achieve the desired end product.
- The depth of improvement is strictly proportional to the energy per drop and the configuration of the tamper.
- Outstanding results are possible; allowable foundation bearing pressures of up to 6,000 psf are achievable with dynamic compaction.
