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| Fibre reinforced composite footbridge installed in six hours  The new composite Bradkirk Bridge, featuring materials and technology supplied by Gurit UK, was installed in an impressive 6 hours in Blackpool, Lancs. The bridge replaces an existing metallic bridge that was life expired. The bridge was manufactured by AM Structures Ltd for Network Rail and engineered by WYG and comprises of two 12m spans and two flights of steps. Each span features a fully moulded composite monocoque structure and was manufactured using Gurit's patented Sprint epoxy technology material which provides an autoclave quality laminate without the expense of using an autoclave. Gurit's Spabond 340LV and Ampreg 22 were also used for bonding, resulting in a virtually steel free construction with each span weighing only 1.6 tonnes.The bridge is expected to last in excess of 60 years and be virtually maintenance free with the exception of routine inspections and replacement of non-slip finishes and stair noses. Epoxy polymer composite materials offer many qualities which are of particular benefit to structures for rail infrastructure: They are resistant to corrosion and are very tough, resisting abuse and cracking and chipping. Their light weight features also reduce transportation and installation costs and are more sustainable than steel. write your comments about the article :: © 2009 Construction News :: home page |