Abstract: A driver tool provides an apparatus and method for installing shaft objects such as casing, pipes, poles, bars, rods, piles or tubes into the ground or other surrounding media. The driver tool has a steel tower on which is mounted a pneumatic or hydraulic hammer. The hammer is attached to a chain-driven mounting plate controlled by a hydraulic or air-driven motor so that the hammer slides in either direction along the tower. In a typical operating position, the tower is generally vertical to the ground and positioned over a shaft section so that the hammer can drive the shaft object into the ground at a manually controlled rate. The hammer and tower are mounted on a chassis having turf tires for rough terrain capability. In its transport position, the tool is positioned on its tires, with the tower generally horizontal to the ground. As a result, the driver tool can be easily moved and operated by one or two men and operated in limited access areas.

Abstract: A portable extraction tool facilitates soil stabilization applications that utilize compaction grouting. Compaction grouting involves installing grout injection casing into the ground in fixed-length sections to depths limited by soil compaction or bedrock. The casing is then removed in stages. Between stages, grout is pumped through the casing and into the soil at high pressure. The extraction tool provides the power, gripping strength, stability and operator control required to pull casings from the ground at a desired rate. Pulling power is provided by a pair of hydraulic cylinders. Gripping strength is provided by a progressive chuck mechanism that secures injection casings on upward movements of the cylinders and releases casings on downward movements, without damaging the reusable casings. Stability and strength are provided by a heavy, large-footprint base plate.