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Ram Jack SoCal Installs (4) Helical Piles for LAWA RUE - LAX Airport Expansion
Problem
As part of the Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) RUE Expansion at LAX, Ty Lin International faced a unique challenge: supporting a new concrete slab positioned directly above a storm drain. The location limited access and required a deep foundation solution with a small footprint to avoid compromising existing utilities.
Caissons were initially considered, but concerns about hitting the storm drain and the amount of excavation required made them an unsuitable option. The project needed a precise, low-impact foundation system that could provide reliable load support without disrupting critical airport infrastructure.
Proposed Solution
During the early design stages, Ty Lin International collaborated with Fortified Engineering to develop an alternative solution. Together, they specified Ram Jack 4.5-inch helical piles with an 8”-10”-12” lead section, a 12-inch helix extension, and standard extensions to reach an average depth of 22 feet.
To further protect the storm drain system, each pile location was pre-augered with an 18-inch diameter hole to a depth of 10 feet, and after the helical pile was installed, an 18-inch PVC pipe sleeve was placed around the upper section. Each pile was capped with NCB new construction brackets for slab support.
This design offered the strength and stability of a deep foundation while keeping installation compact, controlled, and non-invasive.
Outcome
Ram Jack SoCal was subcontracted under Skanska Civil USA to complete the installation. The process went smoothly, with no delays or design changes required. Each pile location was augered, installed, and sleeved exactly as planned. The team then performed ground scans to verify that the piles did not interfere with the storm drain system, confirming the success of the design.
Initially, several Skanska staff members on-site were skeptical about using helical piles instead of caissons. However, after the first pile was installed and verified, the team’s confidence shifted. The once-skeptical observers became vocal supporters, recognizing the efficiency and precision of the Ram Jack system.
By the end of the project, Ram Jack SoCal not only met but exceeded expectations, delivering a secure, space-conscious foundation solution in one of the most challenging utility environments in Los Angeles.
Dealer: Ram Jack SoCal
Engineering Firm: Ty Lin International
General Contractor: Skanska Civil USA
Fall 2025
