What are Helical Anchors?
About Helical Anchors
Helical anchors are ground engineering elements designed to resist tension forces within soil. Installed using a rotational method, these systems feature steel shafts fitted with one or more helical plates, allowing them to advance into the ground with minimal disturbance.
Rather than supporting vertical loads from above, helical anchors provide restraint. They counteract forces that attempt to pull structures out of position, making them suitable for stabilisation and anchoring applications across a range of sectors.
Their controlled installation process enables consistent performance across varying ground conditions, with minimal excavation and reduced impact on surrounding areas.
Typical Uses for Helical Anchoring
Helical anchors are applied across projects where stability and resistance to uplift or lateral movement are required. Common uses include:
- Retaining structures – Acting as tiebacks to support walls and prevent movement under soil pressure.
- Slope stabilisation – Providing reinforcement in areas prone to ground movement or erosion.
- Utility anchoring – Securing pipelines, cables, and transmission structures against displacement.
- Marine and waterfront works – Used to anchor jetties, pontoons, and other installations exposed to dynamic forces.
- Temporary works – Suitable for securing structures that may require later removal without extensive ground disturbance.
This versatility allows helical systems to be adapted to different site conditions and structural demands.
How Helical Anchors Are Installed
- Installation begins following ground assessment and design. A hydraulic drive head is attached to an excavator or specialist rig, providing the torque required to rotate the anchor into the ground.
- As the shaft turns, the helical plates draw the anchor downward. Soil displacement occurs laterally, maintaining ground integrity without generating significant spoil. This method enables installation in confined or sensitive environments where traditional techniques may not be suitable.
- Once the required depth and resistance are achieved, the anchor is connected to the structure using brackets or tensioning systems. Load is then transferred through the shaft into the surrounding soil, where the helical plates provide resistance.
Design and Structure of Helical Anchors
Helical anchors are typically formed from steel shafts, with circular plates welded along their length. These plates vary in size and spacing, depending on the intended application and ground conditions.
The configuration of the helical elements plays a key role in performance. Larger plates may be used where soils are weaker, while smaller arrangements can suit denser ground. Extensions can be added to reach deeper strata when required.
This modular design allows for flexibility during installation, ensuring that the anchor meets project-specific requirements without compromising stability.
Ground Conditions for Helical Anchors
Helical anchors perform effectively across a range of soil types, particularly where reliable resistance to tensile forces is required. Suitable conditions often include:
- Soft cohesive soils – Where anchoring provides additional stability against movement.
- Loose granular materials – Where helical plates engage the surrounding soil to create resistance.
- Made ground – Where variable conditions require a controlled installation approach.
- Restricted access sites – Where compact equipment allows installation in confined spaces.
Highly obstructed or extremely dense ground may present challenges, requiring careful evaluation before installation proceeds.
Benefits of Helical Anchor Systems
Helical anchors offer several advantages compared with alternative anchoring methods. Their design and installation process support efficient and controlled construction:
- Minimal excavation, reducing disruption on site
- Immediate load application following installation
- Lower noise levels compared with driven systems
- Adaptable to both permanent and temporary works
- Suitable for constrained or environmentally sensitive locations
In addition, the helical installation method limits waste generation and reduces reliance on large-scale ground modification. This contributes to more efficient project delivery while maintaining structural performance.
Written by Aarsleff UK
27 May 2026
Aarsleff Ground Engineering is a leading sheet piling supplier and contractor. We specialise in designing and delivering sheet piling solutions across the UK.
Reviewed by Mark Fuller, Piling Director
1 May 2026
Mark Fuller is the Piling Director at Aarsleff Ground Engineering. He has amassed a wealth of experience and knowledge within the specialist piling and ground engineering industry throughout his 20 years of experience in the industry. Mark is directly responsible for the overall driven piling within the business, including technical and operational management of awarded contracts, development of strategic long-term plans and planning of recruitment and resource.
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