HP18x181 – HP Shapes - American wide flange bearing piles

HP18x181 is 18 in (457 mm) deep with an 18 in (457 mm) wide flange, and weighs 181 lb/ft (269.4 kg/m).

HP shapes are wide-flange sections purpose-built for deep foundation piling. Unlike a W shape, an HP shape has flange and web thicknesses that are equal or very close to equal — a proportion specifically chosen so the section can withstand the pounding of pile-driving without local buckling or damage to the thinner web. Once driven, HP piles carry structural loads down through weak or unstable soil to a competent bearing layer or bedrock, making them a standard choice for foundations under buildings, bridges, and marine and waterfront structures where shallow foundations aren't an option.