Helical Anchor Extension
A helical anchor extension is a steel shaft that is installed to the lead of a helical anchor. Helical extensions are available in two varieties – square shaft extension and round rod extension.
Helical anchor extensions have numerous applications. Any project that requires to be anchored to the ground or a foundation can use helical anchor extensions. These extensions can be used in the installation of dock and pier, solar panels, helical decks, and tower foundations.
A helical anchor extension is a component of a helical anchor or helical pile system. The system has three parts – lead section, helical anchor extension, and guy adapter. The helical anchor extension on its own features three parts – a shaft (a long portion of the extension), a forged socket coupler, and a guy attachment point.
A helical anchor extension helps install an anchor or foundation screw deep into the ground. The deep penetration ensures the anchor reaches firmer soils.
The forged socket coupler of a helical anchor extension is bolted to the lead of the helical anchor. The guy attachment part of the extension is bolted into the installation tooling. Then, the rotary equipment rotates the extension to continue driving the anchor deeper into the soil. More extensions can be added until the required torque is reached.
The installation of a helical anchor extension requires very few accessories – rotary equipment and a wrench.
Key Features
- Long shaft
- Integral forged socket coupler
- The torque rating of the extension and lead must match
- Guy attachment
- Length ranges from 3.5 to 10 feet
Helical Anchor Extension Drawing
| Series | Length Inch (mm) | Weight Lbs (kg) |
| AE40 | 40(1016) | 28.2 (12.8) |
| AE58 | 58(1473) | 40 (18.1) |
| AE82 | 82 (2083) | 57 (25.9) |
| AE118 | 118 (2997) | 81 (36.7) |
What is a Helical Anchor Extension?
It is a section of a helical anchor system that is added during installation. The addition of an extension enables the anchor to be pushed deep into the soil. More than one helical anchor extension can be used until the required torque is achieved.
What are the Applications of a Helical Anchor Extension?
The application of a helical anchor determines the application of a helical anchor extension. Most helical anchors and their extensions are used for foundation and anchoring applications. They can be used to build foundations for docks and piers, towers, and helical decks. Helical anchors and extensions can also be used to repair a cracked or settling foundation.
Types of Helical Anchor Extensions
There are two popular types of helical anchor extensions – square shaft extensions and round rod extensions.
- Square Shaft Extensions: These extensions have a square-shaped shaft. Square shaft extensions provide great capacity-to-torque ratios compared to their round counterparts. They also experience less resistance during installation.
- Round Rod Extensions: These helical anchor extensions have a round shaft. They have wider diameters compared to square shaft extensions. They are suitable for installing helical anchors in soft soils. However, they are completely engaged with the soil, creating higher resistance.
What Accessories It is Used With?
A helical anchor extension is used with a helical anchor. A bolt and wrench are used to attach it to the lead of the anchor. A rotary equipment is used to drive and rotate the extension.