What causes problems in CIDH piles?
Three general categories of problems that can be experienced with CIDH piles are improper design, difficult geologic conditions, and poor construction practices. • Improper design, especially with regard to steel reinforcement spacing in cages or the use of overly large aggregate, can cause workability issues as the concrete cannot easily flow throughout the pile. In California, every CIDH pile design has requirements to enhance constructability, adopted in consultation with International Association of Foundation Drilling, along with performance-based specifications that effectively remove design hindrances. • Difficult geologic conditions, especially unexpected conditions, can often result in problems contained in shafts. An experienced drilling crew can compensate for even many of the most challenging geologic conditions with proper methods, equipment, and slurry. However, some geologic conditions still have some risk, even when the best management practices are employed. • Poor con
