Understanding Bridge and Caisson Launching

Sweden has a robust transportation system that helps citizens move around and helps businesses deliver their goods. Sweden aims to create a revamped infrastructure that will be able to meet the increasing demands of the future. The government has dedicated SEK 522 billion between 2014 and 2025 for infrastructure projects (The Swedish Trade and Invest Council, INVESTING FOR A STRONG AND SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE, n.d.). Big parts of any country’s infrastructure are bridges. Bridges help shorten routes and reduce commuting time for many working professionals. To make bridges construction companies employ two main techniques: bridge launching and caisson launching. Mentioned below is some information about these two techniques that are crucial in bridge construction.

Incremental Bridge Launching

Incremental bridge launching is a method of bridge construction that is used when the bridge deck is more than 250 metres in length. In this method the deck is built in section. As each section is completed it is pushed out from the abutments towards the pier. This technique makes it possible to build bridges very quickly. Decks can be built at the speed of 30 m per week (The Constructor, INCREMENTAL LAUNCHING METHOD OF BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION, 2015). The first incremental launch bridge was built in 1964 over the Caroni river. It has a span of 96 meters. The Woronora River Bridge, built in 2001 is the largest incrementally launched bridge.

Caisson Launching

Construction projects over a water body, like a river, are very complex and need a lot of precision and technique. A caisson is a watertight retaining structure. It is essential when working on the foundation for a bridge or pier. Caissons are built in such a way that the water can be pumped out. This creates a dry working environment and makes it possible for the foundation to be built. The process of building and installing a caisson is known as caisson launching. There are risks involved in the use of caissons. Construction workers who spend time working in pressurised caissons may fall sick or get injured if the rapidly re-enter normal atmospheric pressure conditions. The term caisson disease was coined to refer to the illnesses construction workers suffer from because of working on caissons.

Specialized skills and heavy lifting equipment are required for successful bridge and caisson launching. One company that provides the equipment and the expertise for such complex construction projects is Bygging Uddemann. More information is available on their website.?

Out of the different techniques used in construction processes, businesses can consider slipform. By using this method, businesses can benefit in various ways. Easy assembly, safety at the construction site, and quality finish are some benefits.