Steel sheet piles are sheet sections with interlocking edges that are driven into the ground to provide earth retention and excavation support. Steel sheet piles are typically made of steel, but can also be made of wood or reinforced concrete. They are installed sequentially to the designed depth, along the planned excavation perimeter or seawall route. Interlocking steel sheet piles form a wall for permanent or temporary lateral soil support, reducing groundwater inflow. Anchors can be included to provide additional lateral support if needed.

Steel sheet piles are commonly used for retaining walls, land reclamation, underground structures such as parking lots and basements, marine locations for riverbank protection, seawalls, cofferdams, and more. Permanent steel sheet piles are designed to provide a long service life. A vibratory hammer is commonly used to install the sheet piles. If the soil is too hard or dense, an impact hammer can be used to complete the installation.

There are two main techniques for developing steel sheet piles: hot rolling and cold bending. Hot rolling, at high temperatures, produces a pile with interlocking tendencies that appear stronger and more resilient.

Advantages of Steel Sheet Piling:

1. Recyclable and reusable. 2. Available in a variety of lengths, sizes, and steel materials.

3. Suitable for both temporary and permanent structures.

4. Can be installed using silent and vibration-free methods.

5. Faster installation than continuous or cut-off walls.

6. Cofferdams can be constructed in nearly any desired shape.

7. Provides tight-fitting joints, creating an effective water seal.

8. Lightweight, making them easy to lift and carry.

9. Pile length and design are easily adjustable.

10. Joints are designed to withstand the high pressures required to place them in place.

11. Requires minimal maintenance both above and below the surface.