One hundred and forty ASCE and NYSSPE members attended the event to learn about the correct applications for helical piles in a presentation given by Michael Perlow, Jr. P.E. of Danbro Distributors. Helical piles have been used since the 1800s to help build lighthouses and in more recent years helical piles have been used in energy structures, telecom projects, bulkheads, house raisings, and small commercial projects. They also have good applications in confined spaces.

Even though helical piles have been utilized on a variety of different projects, one has to ensure that they are designed correctly as these types of piles can have settlement issues. When designed, the piles should be analyzed both as individual members and as a group. The materials of helical piles are also very corrosive. For this reason, New York City Building Code does not allow the use of helical piles, but test pilots have been set up to find appropriate uses of these piles in New York City.

At the conclusion of the presentation, Mr. Perlow stated that helical piles have a "good window for certain applications and they also have a good window for bad applications." If they are to be used especially for permanent construction, they should be designed correctly.