We decided to explore a topic that doesn't get much attention yet deserves merit for its participation in the helical pile world. In this article we help our readers better understand TMP’s specialized installation equipment, and give them a look into how things got started.

From the start, Techno Metal Post has boasted a dedicated team of mechanical engineers, who to this day, continues to oversee the company's advancement. Together, they developed a line of cutting-edge equipment, created exclusively for the installation of helical pile foundations. In total, four models were created, each designed for different project requirements. They are: R2D, ET1, EM1 & EM2.

Before we comment on their features, let’s review their humble beginnings. We spoke to Étienne St-Laurent, a mechanical engineer who is now the company's Director of Operations and Finance, to discuss his involvement in the development of Techno Metal Post's installation equipment.

He told us that the creation of the R2D dates back to 2001. Before that, pile installation was achieved using a hitched trailer equipped with a boom and gearbox. Limited accessibility became an issue, motivating Clément Binet, co-founder of Techno Metal Post, to collaborate with a sub-contractor and create the first R2D machine. The goal was to create a machine that could access very restricted areas and, more specifically, fit through a 30" door frame. Later, Étienne collaborated to enhance the R2D, making it faster and more efficient. His main role, however, was developing the ET1, a large-scale machine, designed to meet specific load-bearing capacity requirements of over 20 tons per pile.

Over time in France, the R2D eventually proved too small for certain jobs needing a larger, more robust machine. The ET1, in contrast, was oversized and the demand for it was limited. After returning from his trip to France, Clément then designed the EM1 as an intermediate alternative tailored to suit the French market. In time, the EM1 was developed in 2010. This machine is the result of combined effort between Étienne and Maxime Binet, a mechanical engineering technician who remains involved in research and development to this day. An optimized, more efficient version of this machine, the EM2, was launched in 2018, thanks to its many improvements.

We also spoke with Éric Laplante, Mechanical Production Manager, about some key points regarding the installation equipment. He showed us around the facility as he pointed out the machines. Here is what he had to say:

Eric: “All mechanical and electrical components are designed and manufactured here, in Thetford Mines, Québec. Hydraulics, engine, and body are assembled here and made by us as well. The only part we source externally is the bottom section, specifically the traction system.”

“How long does assembly take?”

Eric: “It takes about one month to manufacture one EM2 or R2D. Overall, we can produce up to twelve EM2s and twelve R2Ds per year, depending on the demand.”

Eric added, “The hydraulic system is what screws the pile into the ground. Also, an important fact is, machines can be fitted with 2 different hydraulic motors- a faster one offering lower torque, and a slower one capable of generating higher torque. So, it really depends on the project requirements.”

He pointed to the main head piece attached to the arm and said, “See where the 2 hoses connect at the top? The fork at the end of the boom holds a gearbox equipped with these interchangeable motors which are connected with that 2-hose system. There are 4 bolts in the lower portion that can be unscrewed so that the motor can be lifted out and replaced by another. The gearbox stays in place, and the installer needs to change only the motor. This process is quick and easy and can be completed directly on site. It’s worth mentioning that only the R2D operates with gas/fuel, while the others are all diesel.”

“How are the machines operated?”

Eric: “All machines are equipped with wireless remotes. They turn, move forward and backward through a remote-control box, that’s been designed specifically by our team. The R2D, however, also has a manual control option for forward and reverse. We can also offer a wired remote with the same functionalities.”

“Can you tell us about the bio-hydraulic oil that’s used? I thought that was very interesting.”

Eric: “Well, we use bio-hydraulic oil for hydraulic functions and mineral motor oil for diesel or gas engines. The engine drives a pump which generates the hydraulic pressure required to operate the various parts of the machine."

Now that we have a better picture of how the machines work, lets review the advantages they provide for both the installer and customer-

• Compact, the smallest being able to manoeuvre through tight spaces.
• Powerful, including the smallest machine model.
• Can access difficult terrain without site disruption.
• Requires no excavation or concrete.
• An environmentally conscious and cleaner method.

Visit our Installation Equipment page for more details on each machine.

Our network expands within Spain, as TMP welcomes Jaime Romero and his friend Arnaud as new dealers for TMP Madrid. Recently, these gentlemen came to Canada simply out of curiosity, to visit the Techno Metal Post offices, which they had heard so much about on several occasions. Accompanied by Guillaume Danis, owner of Techno Metal Post Oxford and market developer in Europe, these future business partners were truly impressed by the positive and collaborative spirit within the company.

Their story began when Arnaud, originally from France, fell in love with a beautiful Spanish woman while on a trip to Madrid. During their time together, she introduced him to her friend's life partner, Jaime, who later became his good friend. The two of them, having very different career backgrounds, would often discuss the idea of starting a business together.

Arnaud is a friend of the de Franssu family, who oversees several Techno Metal Post companies in France. Therefore, he was well aware of their success, and increasingly saw the same potential to develop the almost untouched market within Spain. It was at the beginning of 2024 that Arnaud and Jaime decided to take the first step in their new venture together and visit TMP located in Canada, where the company was founded.

After a week of meetings and discussions, everyone knew they would be part of the family! It is with great pleasure that we welcome them and wish them much success!

We recently had the pleasure to sit down with Jonathan Lavallée, local dealer and owner of TMP Thetford. He gave us an insight into what it's like to install helical piles during winter in his area of Thetford Mines, Qc, Canada. We explored both the challenges and solutions of installing piles in cold regions, specifically in winter. The number of winter installations isn’t a common occurrence for Jonathan, yet the demand is still there due to specific projects. On his end, a typical year can see the completion of over a dozen projects during the winter months.

Jonathan mentioned the first step he takes, just before the installation, is to clear the snow from the site to access the frozen ground. He then uses a type of auger to pre-drill a hole and break the ice and/or the frozen ground, before installing the piles. It's often the preferred method for winter installations because it’s usually faster and more efficient.

Aside from operating the auger, Jonathan also uses another method for accessing the ground below. Thawing is considered a less common approach, yet an available technique, nonetheless. In past situations, he’s drilled a small hole about an inch wide with a heated electrode. This process takes about half an hour to thaw a 12-inch radius, depending on the frozen state of the ground.

These types of helical pile installations are more common in the colder regions of Canada and certain parts of the United States, where the ground freezes.

Jonathan commented how winter installations, in his territory, are more common for large commercial projects in city centers, rather than residential projects. He says that most orders are received before the holidays, with the best time to install piles being from April to the end of December. Typical winter installation projects include house extensions in residential areas.

Even if conditions aren't optimal, installations are still possible; simply reach out to your local dealer to determine the next steps. It's worth noting that in certain cold regions where temperatures aren't especially low, accessing those areas becomes much easier with either of our installation machines.

We thank Jonathan for spending time with us and sharing the challenges of winter installations, and how to overcome them.

It's such a great pleasure to welcome Jesse Touzin and Véronique Dupéré to our amazing Techno Metal Post family! We recently had the opportunity to meet with these new dealers, who will be serving Vancouver Island on Canada's West Coast.

Originally from Quebec, they were captivated by the climate and charm of Vancouver Island, where they have been living for 8 years now.

Jesse has been a driller for over 25 years, for various Canadian companies. He knows all the hidden treasures the ground can hold, "even if each hole is unique," he says. For the past 4 years, he has owned a deep-sea fishing business, and it was there that he met Kevin Parkin, owner of Techno Metal Post Kelowna. From the moment he arrived for the fishing trip, the topic of conversation revolved around Techno Metal Post technology. It was Kevin who a few years earlier, had come to MacMillan Provincial Park, to install over a hundred helical piles on which to build the magnificent footbridge that meanders through the Cathedral Grove trails.

Jesse was immediately sold on the idea that this was the way forward for his career. He had always wanted to own a viable year-round business, and now he had the opportunity to have all that, along with all the marketing, mechanical and engineering support provided. He's never been more certain of his decision, apart from the moment he met his partner Véronique!

Véronique, his long-term partner, is involved in many of his projects, and together they form a wonderful team! She's been in the restaurant business for 24 years now and says that she's decided to step out of her comfort zone by accepting this challenge with Techno Metal Post. But Véronique isn't afraid of a good challenge: a skilled hiker, she's climbed and reached some 6000m summits, including some Himalayan mountains. Véronique's enthusiasm and people skills will enable her to offer her customers outstanding service.

We wish them much success!!

 

In this article, we would like to highlight the advantages of using helical piles as a foundation solution for structures near or in water. When it comes to building structures near bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, or coastlines, traditional concrete foundations can pose significant challenges due to a probable high-water table or the need for shoring and water pumping. However, helical piles offer a revolutionary alternative that provides numerous benefits.

Helical piles offer several advantages when it comes to building or repairing structures such as houses, cabins, docks, boathouses, boardwalks, and retaining walls near or in water. One major advantage is the ease of installation. Techno Metal Post's installation equipment allows the piles to be installed near or in water, with minimal impact. This means that the construction process is swift and efficient, without the need for extensive excavation, dewatering, or site damage/disruption.

A high-water table is a common challenge faced when building near water. Traditional concrete foundations often require extensive dewatering, which can be time-consuming and costly. Not to mention, the damage they might undergo through environmental conditions, is inevitable.

Helical piles, on the other hand, can be installed without the need for dewatering. They are screwed directly into the ground, without excavating or removing soil, minimizing the impact of the water table on the construction process. This not only saves time and money but also reduces any environmental repercussions.

Another advantage of using helical piles near or in water is their exceptional stability. They help ensure the long-term durability and safety of the structure, giving you peace of mind knowing that your investment is built on a solid foundation.

One significant advantage of helical piles near or in water is their resistance to corrosion. They are offered with a hot-dipped galvanized coating, which acts as a protective barrier against the corrosive effects of water and moisture. This coating enhances the durability and longevity of the piles, ensuring they can withstand the harsh environmental conditions associated with bodies of water.

Furthermore, helical piles are an environmentally friendly choice. Their installation process requires minimal disturbance to the surrounding ecosystem, as it does not involve heavy and loud machinery and/or excavation. This makes them an ideal option for projects that aim to minimize their impact on aquatic habitats while preserving the natural beauty of the area.

However, it is important to mention that the installation of Techno Metal Posts is not recommended in lakes that undergo periods of deep freeze, which eventually leads to ice accumulation. The movement from this ice, thereafter, can cause damage to the piles and the structure.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about helical piles and their applications, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to assist you with your foundation needs.

https://www.technometalpost.com/en-GB/find-your-dealer/ 

Did you know that Techno Metal Post offers a revolutionary solution to how foundation repairs and reinforcements are carried out? There exists the possibility of installing helical piles from inside a home or other construction spaces by our trained and certified installers. Twenty-five years ago, TMP developed a small installation machine measuring only 29 inches wide called R2D, making indoor installations an easy and efficient reality.  

 

Solid foundations are vital to the stability and structural integrity of any building. Over time, they can become compromised due to various factors such as soil movement, water damage, or inadequate initial construction. When foundation issues arise, it is crucial to address them promptly to prevent further damage to the structure and ensure the safety of all.

 

Traditionally, foundation repairs and reinforcements have involved extensive excavation, causing disruption, inconvenience, and additional expenses. However, our unique R2D machine provides an efficient and effective alternative. Its compact size can easily maneuver through doorways, enabling our skilled technicians to carry out the installation process from inside the premises.

 

A helical pile foundation system (using our R2D machine) offers several benefits, making it an attractive choice for add-ons or foundation repairs.

 

Let's take a closer look:

 

Indoor Installation: Unlike conventional methods, our innovative approach allows for effective indoor installation, minimizing disruptions to your daily routines and reducing the need for extensive renovations.

 

Space Saving: There is no need for large excavators or trucks to access your property with our compact R2D machine. This space-saving feature is particularly advantageous for urban areas or properties with limited land availability.

 

Precision and Stability: The R2D provides proper stability and accuracy whether for maneuvering inside and through small spaces or on job sites.

 

Cost-Effective Solution: Indoor helical pile installation can be more cost-effective when compared to traditional methods. The reduced need for external machinery and extensive excavation equals lower labor and equipment expenses.

 

Environmentally Friendly: Our method produces minimal disturbance to its surroundings, reducing the impact on the property and its environment. There is no need for soil removal or displacement, making it an all-around eco-conscious choice.

 

 

Our team of trained and skilled professionals has successfully implemented indoor helical pile installations in numerous residential and commercial projects. The combined efforts of our expertise and the cutting-edge R2D machine can address a wide range of foundation issues efficiently and effectively.

 

We understand that every project is unique, which is why our dedicated engineering team works closely with you to assess your specific requirements. They review your project and provide a comprehensive plan to execute the installation process with the utmost care and precision.

 

If you are experiencing foundation problems or planning to add a separate foundation for additional support, we invite you to explore our indoor helical pile installation method. Our R2D machine can bring you the solution for the inside of your home or construction space!

 

You can contact one of our dealers near you to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward stabilizing and securing your foundation.

https://www.technometalpost.com/en-GB/find-your-dealer/

Techno Metal Post proudly welcomes a new dealer from Southeast Michigan. Jonathan Summerville joins the TMP family with a diverse background which now serves him in his new endeavors.

Jonathan and his wife are expecting a baby this upcoming year and we congratulate them on the new addition to their family! Originally from Vermont, he is an avid outdoor enthusiast and has traveled extensively. Growing up, his dad introduced him to woodworking at a young age, which later served him as a custom furniture maker in Brooklyn, NY.

His educational background is exciting and unconventional, having graduated from Long Island University with a degree in Global Studies. There, he focused on the effects of tourism in developing countries while living in different parts of the world each semester. He has many passions and skills and has tinkered in many trades throughout his lifetime.

He moved to Detroit in 2016, investing in real estate and renovating old homes. He says, “I'm proud of the work I've done, and my contribution to the city's ongoing transformation.”

In 2017, Jonathan began his career as a professional deck builder, and a few years later learned about helical piles as a foundation solution. His initial contact with Techno Metal Post happened while working on a deck project in Vermont. He needed a helical pile installer and came across a local dealer with TMP Vermont. In speaking with him, he quickly realized the potential of bringing a dealership to Southeast Michigan to service that area.

Today, he is the latest addition to our ever-expanding dealership network. Techno Metal Post wishes Jonathan a warm welcome and much success ahead!

Join us in welcoming Mike and Troy, a father and son duo, with Techno Metal Post Vancouver for becoming the newest dealers within the TMP network.

Mike worked in the family business for 25-30 years along with his brother, developing and building industrial parts and mechanical repair facilities for the forestry, mining, oil, and gas sectors. Over those 25 years, the two brothers built an international company with multiple branches., spanning many different countries.

Troy has a business administration/management degree major and has passionately played hockey for 21 years. Among many achievements, he has also been part of Division One in Anchorage Alaska, and Division 3 in New York. About five years ago, he decided to start his own business in professional window cleaning for buildings and houses and alternate between that and hockey.

Mike came across our helical pile foundation system while working on his home project. He explained, “Kevin Simoes, a great architectural designer and a significant influence, is the one who introduced me to Techno Metal Post. Kevin has been providing insights for my (still under construction) place. This home, once completed, will serve as a big testimonial because it showcases everything we need to demonstrate about helical pile foundations.”

Considering Mike’s impressive background and experience with many high-profile business professionals, he had great things to say about TMP and emphasized how rare it was to meet such a tight-knit and passionate company. He says, “It's part of why we chose Techno Metal Post”. He is particularly excited that Troy is exposed to this refreshing and motivating opportunity.

We are thrilled to have Techno Metal Post Vancouver join our TMP family, and we wish them much success!

Introducing our newest dealers from Northwest Wisconsin, brothers Taylor and John Hewitt. Taylor brings a background in environmental engineering and a history of manufacturing large-scale equipment, not to mention John having expertise within the construction sector. Together, they are a great team and a wonderful addition to the TMP family.

Born and raised in the Midwest, the brothers share a passion for the construction industry and envision bringing new developments to their area. It's this shared vision that led them to venture into business together as certified Techno Metal Post dealers.

Their journey began when they discovered our helical piles. Recognizing the efficiency and versatility of our piles, they immediately saw the potential for their glamping projects. Exclusively focused on lake projects, they know the unique challenges these locations present and how installing our piles would make a significant difference for them.

Country boys at heart, their strong community ties will help them to collaborate closely with other builders, in Wisconsin's Northwest. We couldn't be happier to welcome them on board as they embark on this new chapter as Techno Metal Post dealers!