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Field Testing Demonstrates Major Capacity Gains for PierTech’s Heli Max® Grouted Displacement Pile
by PierTech Systems
November 2025
A recent full-scale test program in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, has produced compelling data on the performance of the Heli Max® pressure-grouted displacement pile. Conducted in partnership with APC Construction, the program compared two traditional helical piles with two Heli Max® piles installed and tested under the same challenging soil conditions typical of the Gulf Coast.
The Heli Max® system combines features of helical piles, auger cast piles, displacement piles, and micropiles. A soil displacement cone laterally densifies the surrounding material, while a proprietary grouting module injects neat cement slurry under controlled pressure as the pile advances. This produces a continuous, high-quality grout column without spoils, casing, or slurry.
Static load tests showed the Heli Max® piles delivering over six times the axial capacity of the helical piles. Using a standard comparison point of 0.50 inches of total deflection, the Heli Max® piles achieved 116–121 tons of ultimate capacity. One of the test piles was stopped at 120 tons due to bending concerns—not geotechnical failure—suggesting capacities may be even highe
r.
Instrumentation confirmed significant pore-pressure changes within 4 feet of the pile, validating that the grouting module maintained pressure and formed an effective, continuous grout column with diameters ranging from 17 to over 30 inches.
With high capacity, low noise, zero spoils, and no depth limitation, the Heli Max® system offers an efficient deep foundation alternative for industrial, commercial, and utility applications—delivering substantial cost savings through reduced equipment needs and lower cost per ton of capacity.
For more information, visit https://www.piertech.com/products/heli-max-grouted-pile.html
For more information:
PierTech Systems
600 Trade Center Blvd.
Chesterfield, MO 63005
636-536-5007