Obviously, they dig a very large hole and prepare concrete. But, do they pound pylons deep into the soil or use a different technique? Just wonderng.
Sometimes, the soil bearing capacity is so poor, they'd have to pour very large footings to support the coaster. Generally, they'd switch to a pile footing, which is exactly what you described. Pounding several steel H sections into the ground to specified depths, then connecting them all at the top with concrete. This method relies on the friction between the steel and the soil it's pounded into or resting on the end of the pile if the bedrock is close enough. I beleve parts of mantis use a pile footing. Really, it's a factor of soil bearing conditions and cost-effectiveness.
-seth
WT is built on a beach, which has a low bearing capacity. They are probably using piles or piers. What you call a "footer" is actually a pile cap which ties the piles together and gives a place to attach the structural steel.
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Jeff - Webmaster/Admin - CoasterBuzz.com, Sillynonsense.com
"As far as I can tell it doesn't matter who you are. If you can believe, there's something worth fighting for..." - Garbage, "Parade"
-seth
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