HS2 Ltd has unveiled a new vacuum excavation technique for piling which could have massive benefits for the wider construction industry in the UK and abroad.

The innovation, developed by specialist contractors working on HS2, is better for the environment, safer for workers and reduces construction noise, to the benefit of neighbouring communities and businesses.

Lee Piper, working for HS2 contractor Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture (SCS JV), identified the opportunity to test a new piling technique and worked with a colleague, Deon Louw from Cementation Skanska, to develop the pioneering new approach.

The 'zero trim pile technique' involves sucking out excess concrete whilst still wet using a new vacuum excavator technique. Traditionally in piling, concrete is overpoured and then workers have to break out the excess concrete. This can cause a lot of health problems, including hand-arm vibration syndrome, hearing loss and silicosis. By removing the need to break out excess concrete, this new approach is safer for workers, and also reduces the work hours involved in complex piling work.

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Whilst vacuum excavation technology is not new, using it in this way in the construction sector marks a step change, and initial trials have proved overwhelmingly successful. HS2 contractors developing innovative new methods to deliver the project saw a promising opportunity and found a willing supplier to invest in machinery to test the approach. Hercules Site Services, a company from Cirencester, were keen to develop the technology, and provided a machine for use on site in the Euston Approaches, for use on real life piles. Materials excavated were then sent off for lab testing and reports.

Lee Piper said: "I have worked in the construction sector for over 20 years, and the same piling techniques have been used throughout that time. Working with colleagues I saw an opportunity to try a new approach and was supported to do so by HS2.

"This technique could be transformational for the construction sector, reducing the health risk that results from breaking piles. The additional benefits of noise reduction, time and carbon savings mean the technique should be attractive for the whole sector to use going forward."