TurboJET is a highly effective method of deep soil mixing (DSM)

which was recently introduced to New Zealand by Hiway

GeoTechnical.
TurboJET is a hybrid system, utilising both high pressure grout
injection and mechanical mixing. This process efficiently mixes soil
and grout, producing homogenous, uniform high strength columns.
Hiway GeoTechnical introduced the TurboJET system which was
selected for its performance, cost effectiveness, versatility and wide
range of potential applications within New Zealand.
TurboJET extends the capability and success of the COLMIX
based DSM system.

"We can now continue to lead the way in our field,

providing our valued clients with a new level of
technology, service and performance."
Description
TurboJET represents the latest development of "wet" grout DSM.
TurboJET is a hybrid system incorporating high pressure "jet"
cutting and mechanical mixing to provide a highly efficient method
of soil mixing.
Grout is injected at high pressure through a series of outlet nozzles
blending soil as the mixing tool advances. High pressure cutting is
effective in most soil types including problematic cohesive plastic
clays.
The mechanical mixing of grout and soil is achieved using a mixing
tool featuring cutting teeth, blades and a mixing head. The type and
configuration of tool is selected for project specific requirements and
soil types.
TurboJET columns are 600mm diameter with a strength up to
several MPa depending on soil types and binder design. Column
depths of up to 20 metres are achievable.

Implementation
The type of binder and application rate is selected depending on soil
type and project requirements. Grout mix selection is based on

geotechnical site investigations, laboratory testing and field trials

and experience.
Grout is batched using an automated GM14 grout batching plant
featuring automated electronic weighing of binders, accurately
controlled water injection and a series of high sheer mixer and
agitator tanks.
Grout is delivered to the mixing tool using a high pressure triplex
piston pump capable of delivering pressure up to 500 Bar (7000
PSI). Grout pressure is fully variable, being selected depending on
the soil types and the column mix design.
TurboJET provides a number of advantages compared with
conventional methods:

Cost effective

Fast installation time

High degree of Quality Control

Proven field performance

Rapid design build project delivery

No vibration

Minimal soil displacement

Depth capability (20+ meters)

Application in wide range of material types

Proven technology

Uniform and homogeneous

Quality Assurance

A high degree of quality control is achieved through the use of an

onboard computer which provides monitoring and data capture of all
drilling and grout parameters in real time.
Data downloading and processing enables analysis of individual
columns to ensure that design parameters are achieved.
Comprehensive sampling, testing and post construction testing is
implemented to validate design strengths and ensure that the
design criteria is met.

Application
Hiway GeoTechnical has completed numerous DSM projects,
including:

Road slip repair

Ground improvement for embankments and civil construction projects

Building foundations

Liquefaction control and settlement prevention

Shear key construction and earth dam foundations

Retaining Walls

The majority of projects have been design build

contracts. Innovative design is achieved using
Plaxis 3D finite element analysis and a range of
supporting geotechnical design software.
Hiway Stabilizers has twice won the Transit NZ Road Innovation
Award for DSM projects. The company has also published and
presented many papers at local and international geotechnical
conferences and are recognised leaders in this specialised field and
a member of the International Deep Soil Mixing Organisation.