Strong connection. Clear passage for concrete and reinforcement.
Olivier couplings connect drilling pipes and drilling heads for foundation and drilling applications. The cylindrical connection combines a large internal passage with torque transmission in both directions of rotation.
From couplings with standard plugs to Olivier CD couplings and rotary drive connections: Olivier helps you select the right configuration for your application.
What makes the Olivier coupling different?
Clear internal passage
Space for concrete and reinforcement through the drilling pipe. The clear internal diameter is selected to suit the application.
Drilling torque in both directions
Designed for drilling and reverse rotation, transmitting drilling torque clockwise and counterclockwise.
Designed to be disconnected
After removing the plugs, the cylindrical connection can be rotated and taken apart.
Components available separately
Couplings and plugs are available separately. Olivier provides support with maintenance, replacement and connection to existing tooling.
An alternative to square, hexagonal and octagonal couplings
Conventional couplings with a square, hexagonal or octagonal connection transmit drilling torque through their profile. These connections can be difficult to separate after prolonged use.
A cylindrical connection designed to come apart again. With the Olivier coupling, the plugs transmit the drilling torque. Once the plugs have been removed, the cylindrical coupling parts can be rotated relative to each other to release the connection. This is a practical advantage during disassembly and maintenance.
Two configurations, the same principle
A male and a female coupling slide into each other. Plugs transfer the forces between the two parts. The plug design also determines how the coupling is assembled and locked.
Olivier CD coupling
With bayonet-locking CD plugs. The plugs follow the outer radius of the coupling. Unlike the standard configuration, the locking mechanism does not use separate hex-head bolts.
Olivier coupling with standard plugs
The classic configuration with 16 plugs and retaining bolts. The plugs transfer drilling torque and tensile forces, so these loads are not transmitted through the threads of the retaining bolts.
The difference lies in the plugs
Standard plug with retaining bolt
The plug transfers forces between the two coupling parts. The bolt holds the plug in place.
CD plug with bayonet locking
The CD plug is secured by a bayonet lock. Its outer surface follows the radius of the coupling.
Olivier CD coupling
The CD configuration has a compact external profile, with an outside diameter close to the drilling pipe diameter. The rounded CD plugs follow the outer radius of the coupling. This limits protruding parts and their exposure to wear.
The plug openings are closed on the inside of the male part. For closed systems using pressurised concrete or grout, the coupling is fitted with a suitable seal.
The number of CD plugs and the overlap length depend on the configuration. This allows the connection and clear passage to be matched to the required loads and available installation space.
Pressurised concrete or grout
The Olivier CD coupling can be configured for closed systems supplying concrete or grout under pressure. A seal can be fitted. The seal and overall configuration are selected to suit the medium, operating pressure and drilling system.
Olivier coupling with standard plugs
In the classic configuration, the male and female parts overlap by 500 mm. The connection uses 16 plugs, held in place by bolts.
After removing the plugs, the cylindrical parts can be rotated relative to each other to release the coupling. Correct assembly, lubrication and maintenance remain important.
The size is stated using the actual dimensions. For example: an Olivier coupling with an outside diameter of Ø352 mm and a clear internal diameter of Ø250 mm, for Ø324 mm drilling pipes.
Clear passage for concrete and reinforcement
The cylindrical coupling provides a large clear internal passage. This is important when placing a reinforcement cage through the drilling pipes and when supplying concrete.
In an open concrete system, the passage remains accessible from above for reinforcement and concrete supply. For a closed system, the configuration is adapted to the supply of pressurised concrete or grout, including the necessary seals.
Olivier couplings are used in the Olivier pile and Olivier DPA systems. Applications in other drilling techniques, such as CFA, soil mixing or geothermal drilling, can also be assessed.
Available diameters
The overview below shows the standard size ranges. The coupling outside diameter, clear internal diameter and drilling pipe diameter are different dimensions.
With standard plugs
Coupling outside diameter: Ø300–555 mm
Clear internal diameter: Ø210–450 mm
For drilling pipes: Ø273–508 mm
Olivier CD coupling
Coupling outside diameter: Ø185–515 mm
Clear internal diameter: Ø100–435 mm
Configurations for drilling pipes from Ø133 mm
The dimensions are combined for each configuration. Not every outside diameter is available with every internal or drilling pipe diameter. Other diameters and customised connections can be discussed on request.
Drilling torques from 55 to 550 kNm
55–550 kNm
Depending on diameter, configuration and application, Olivier couplings are available for drilling torques from 55 to 550 kNm. The couplings are designed to transmit drilling torque in both directions of rotation.
Selection depends on the drilling pipe diameter, required clear passage and drilling and tensile forces. Olivier matches the coupling, plugs and pipe connection and confirms the capacity of the selected assembly.
Also for other drilling systems
Olivier couplings have applications beyond the Olivier piling systems. Suitable configurations can also be assessed for other foundation and drilling systems, CFA, soil mixing, geothermal drilling, oil drilling and other drilling applications.
The large internal passage, connection of pipe sections and torque transmission in both directions offer possibilities for these applications. For each application, Olivier assesses the loads, connection to existing equipment and any pressure and sealing requirements.
From coupling to complete drilling pipe
For the press-fit assembly used by Olivier, the pipe ends are machined. The couplings are pressed into the prepared ends and then welded. This method supports accurate alignment of the coupling and drilling pipe.
In addition to the press-fit configuration, short versions for direct welding are available. The choice is matched to the drilling pipe and application.
Drilling pipes are available in customised lengths. Protective caps protect the connections during storage and transport. Adapters between different Olivier couplings can also be provided.
Olivier auto coupling for the rotary drive
For frequent connection and disconnection of drilling pipes, there is the Olivier auto coupling. It connects to the rotary drive and has its own locking mechanism.
Semi-automatic configuration: part of the operation is still carried out manually, for example with a spanner or lever.
Hydraulically automatic configuration: operation is hydraulic, allowing connection and disconnection from the cab.
Connection to your rotary drive
Olivier supplies customised drive couplings and flanges for various rotary drives. The connection, clear passage and concrete or grout supply are assessed together. Whether a direct connection or a universal joint is suitable depends on the rotary drive and application.
Developed in-house, protected technology
Olivier couplings are developed in-house. The CD technology is protected within patent family WO2022157650. The design of the classic Olivier coupling is covered by references including registered design DM/210319 and US design patent US D959254.
These protected solutions may not be copied without permission where prohibited by the applicable rights. Contact Olivier for information on use and supply. The auto coupling is a separate technology and is presented on its own page.
Which Olivier coupling suits your application?
Tell us which drilling pipes and rotary drive you use, the clear passage you require and the loads the connection needs to transmit. Olivier supports you with selection, assembly and commissioning.