Patent ID: 7883295
Filing Date: 2011-02-08
Classification: E02D

Abstract:
1. A method of forming in situ soil cement columns and other structures in a subterranean earth situs where a soil processing tool carried by a hollow Kelly is advanced into said situs to form a hole and to break said material into pieces; and while advancing said soil processing tool into said situs, introducing a jetstream having water and a solidifying agent into said pieces from said tool to hydraulically divide said pieces into very fine particles and to admix said solidifying agent with said particles whereby a uniform admixture of said solidifying agent and said particles is achieved; and thereafter allowing said admixture of said solidifying agent and said material to harden, the improvement comprising the following step: forming a cyclonic mixing region by deflecting said jetstream through an angle greater than 110° and preventing said jetstream from impacting the side wall of said hole.