Introduction
The HUW Method (H Steel U Steel Continuous Wall) is an innovative foundation pit support technology that serves as an efficient alternative to traditional methods such as Larsen steel sheet piles, SMW method piles, and bored piles. This technique utilizes interlocking H-shaped steel beams and U-shaped steel plates, assembled using a positioning frame to form a continuous steel wall.
Through extensive applications in land-based and deep-water foundation projects, including high-rise buildings, underpasses, utility tunnels, high-speed rail, and bridge constructions, the HUW Method has demonstrated outstanding performance in safety, environmental protection, energy efficiency, high impermeability, and construction speed.
Overview of the HUW Method
1. Background
With rapid economic growth and increasing construction demands, foundation pit support technologies have become critical. Conventional methods such as diaphragm walls, bored pile walls, SMW method, Larsen sheet piles, cement-mixed piles, and reinforced concrete piles often involve high cement consumption, slurry waste, and environmental pollution.
To address these challenges, our company developed the HUW Method by integrating the strengths of SMW, bored piles, sheet piles, and diaphragm walls, while incorporating advanced international techniques.
2. Technical Features
-
Eco-friendly & Sustainable: Low carbon emissions, recyclable materials, and minimal pollution.
-
Cost-Effective & Reliable: More economical than traditional methods with high structural stability.
-
Superior Performance: Faster construction, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced safety.
3. Efficiency Advantages
-
20% cost savings compared to bored pile walls.
-
50% shorter construction period than conventional methods.
4. Flexibility & Adaptability
-
Standard excavation depth: up to 13 meters.
-
For ultra-deep excavations, H-beams (350×350mm) can be inserted into U-plates, extending the depth to 20 meters.
Design Specifications & Applications
Suitable Conditions
-
Soft to medium-hard soil layers (with proper bracing systems).
-
Excavation depth exceeding 8.0 meters.
-
Ideal for confined construction sites due to compact machinery requirements.
Key Benefits
-
Minimal deformation: Higher rigidity than standard sheet piles.
-
Zero soil waste or slurry pollution: All materials are reusable.
-
Cost comparable to the SMW method, with potential savings under certain conditions.
Construction Process & Key Steps
Land-Based Construction
-
Survey & Site Preparation: Level the ground and install the HUW positioning frame.
-
Insert H & U-Steel Sections: Align and fix them into the frame.
-
Drive Piles to Design Depth: Use vibratory hammers to install sections sequentially.
-
Excavation & Bracing: Begin digging after wall completion, install supports, and proceed to foundation work.
-
Backfill & Extraction: After structural completion, backfill and extract reusable piles.
Water-Based Construction
-
Guide Pile Installation: Precision placement (±2cm tolerance) for stability.
-
Positioning Frame Setup: Secure the frame onto the guide piles for alignment.
-
Pile Driving: Insert and drive steel sections using vibratory hammers.
Verticality Control
-
Laser-guided leveling ensures <3mm deviation during installation.
Competitive Advantages
1. Cost Savings
-
5%-20% cheaper than traditional methods (SMW, bored piles, sheet piles).
2. Faster Construction
-
20+ linear meters per day with automated positioning systems.
-
30+ days saved vs. SMW or bored pile methods.
3. Material Accessibility
-
Uses readily available H-beams, 14mm steel plates, seamless pipes (60×10mm), and round pipes (Φ28mm).
Conclusion
The HUW Method is a game-changing foundation pit support solution, offering unmatched efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Whether for urban infrastructure, transportation, or marine projects, this technology ensures safer, faster, and greener construction.
Explore HUW Method today—the future of foundation engineering!
