Controlled Modulus Columns (CMC) are a highly engineered ground improvement technique developed in Europe. CMCs are most effective when soft soil layers are deep, and the soils require a moderate to large degree of strengthening.

This technique is achieved by installing a grid of unreinforced, low-strength concrete columns into the ground using a specially designed displacement tool to improve the overall subsurface stability and bearing capacity.

SBC’s equipment manufacturing arm, Berminghammer, has designed and built specialty tools to install this solution on projects of any size.

Advantages

• CMC installation can be a quick and economical alternative to other piling methods for ground improvement applications.
• This technique is suitable for a wide range of soil types including soft and very soft clays.
• The displacement method of installation produces minimal spoils reducing handling and disposal costs. It is also vibration-free relative to other piling alternatives.
• A distribution mattress can be added to a CMC installation to produce a ground bearing foundation.