prEN 14731

Execution of special geotechnical works - Ground treatment by deep vibration

Publication date:   Aug 27, 2026

Scope

This document establishes general principles for the execution of soil treatment by deep vibration.
The following types of treatment are covered by this document:
- deep vibratory compaction to densify the ground as mentioned in EN 1997 3:2025, Annex I, Table I.1;
- vibrated columns formed by inserted granular material laterally/radially compacted against the surrounding ground to form a stiff composite column-soil structure (vibrated compacted granular columns) as mentioned in EN 1997 3:2025, Annex I, Table I.2;
- vibrated columns formed by inserted material developing unconfined compressive strength comprising a composite of binder and granular material (rigid columns) as mentioned in EN 1997 3:2025, Annex I, Table I.2.
The following treatment methods are covered by this document:
- methods in which depth vibrators, containing oscillating weights which cause horizontal vibrations, are inserted into the ground;
- methods in which compaction probes are inserted into the ground using a vibrator, which remains above ground surface, and which oscillates in a vertical mode.
Treatment methods are outlined in Annexes A, B, C and D.
The following treatment methods, among others, are not included in this document:
- dynamic compaction, dynamic replacement and other methods in which some form of treatment is applied to the ground surface;
- uncompacted granular columns primarily used as drains;
- explosive compaction.