AZ® sections

ArcelorMittal rolled the first AZ sheet piles beginning of the 1990's. It was at that time an awesome achievement to roll 600 mm wide Z-type sheet piles with a Larssen type interlock. The AZ range was completed with the manufacturing in 1998 of the AZ 48, the heaviest Z-section in the world (outperformed only in 2016 by a new AZ section).

A few years later, in 2004, we launched the AZ-700 wider and lighter sheet piles. Note that these piles are 700 mm wide. The first section was the AZ 38-700, a monumental success. We were indeed the first manufacturer in the world able to roll such wide sections on a regular basis.

Since then, we observed a steady increase in demand for wider and lighter sheet piles. After extensive finite element simulations, optimisations and driving tests under real conditions, we were proud to introduce in 2015 the latest AZ new generation of even more cost-efficient, up to 800 mm extra-wide sheet piles!

All our AZ steel sheet piles have the proven Larssen interlock.

AZ sheet piles are usually supplied and driven as double piles (some exceptions apply). Although statically not required, the common interlock can be crimped (standard pattern), thus improving the straightness of the wall and reducing noise when driving with a vibratory hammer.

Available profiles:

• AZ-800^®
• AZ-770^®
• AZ-750^®
• AZ-700^®
• AZ^®

Not yet convinced about the advantages of the new AZ generation: check the brochures below.

Note: 

• AZ^® is a registered trademark of ArcelorMittal

Interlock

Delivery form

Bent piles

Corner sections

Corner and junction piles

AZ^®-800

1. Research & Development

The new AZ^® series is the result of ArcelorMittal’s extensive experience and ongoing commitment to developing new products. Building on the Group’s steelmaking know-how, research was carried out into optimising to a maximum the weight, dimensions and general properties of the sheet piles. This was only possible through a great effort in stretching the technical limits of the mill’s equipment. The complex theoretical design aspects were handled by the R&D department in collaboration with the University of Stuttgart.

2. Investments

State-of-the-art sheet piles require state-of-the-art production facilities. In order to further improve its product range, ArcelorMittal has invested substantially in the highly specialized rolling mill in Belval, Luxembourg. Thus maintaining it as the world’s leading production site for hot-rolled sheet piles. New straightening equipment is the key element of this investment.

3. Production

Roll pass design activities are concentrated at the R&D Center in Esch-sur-Alzette. Their main mission is to determine the geometry of the rolls in order to be able to produce a correct shape within the allowed tolerances. During the development phase R&D used finite element software to perform numerical simulations of the rolling process, showing the step by step deformation from the semi-product into the finished product. Reduced-scale tests in a laboratory were then carried out to confirm the numerical results. Finally, prior to the industrial production phase, rolling trials have been carried out in order to set up a stable manufacturing process.

4. Sales Feedback

"My overall experience with the new AZ®-800 generation is very positive. Our first driving test with these wider sheet piles showed that we can achieve a smoother and quicker installation with our existing equipment. I see a bright future for the AZ^®-800 range as it can be used in a more time and cost-efficient manner with no additional investments needed."
Eric Leemans Technical Director Soetaert n.v.

In light of the continuous improvement of our products, ArcelorMittal relies on the detailed information provided by our customers based on their experience in the field. The launch of the lighter, wider and more cost-efficient AZ^® series was decided due to encouraging feedback from customers that will join us in this new adventure.