Four Unexpected Equipment Pieces for Bridge Work

Four Game-Changing Equipment Pieces for Your Bridge Projects

Spring is here, and the short break from road work is officially over. Warmer weather brings the need for road and bridge repairs after harsh winter conditions. In this blog, we highlight some unsung equipment used in bridge repair and the unique ways they help accomplish the task.

Jack and Slide

Modern bridge work has begun trending toward the rapid bridge construction model, making sliding a bridge into place a more common sight. Once a new bridge construction is complete, there needs to be a system to move it safely, quickly, and efficiently onto the supports.

jack-and-slide-system

A jack-and-slide system from LGH

A jack-and-slide system has become a popular option to accomplish that task, replacing several of the more traditional methods, because the objects, or a bridge in this case, are being slid into place versus being hoisted using cranes. Whenever crane use is not possible or cost effective sliding the bridge is an excellent option.

The HydraPak synchronous hydraulic pump allows for the controlled movement of objects, featuring a split flow valve system. Letting each cylinder lift at the same pace despite varying weights experienced at different cylinders.

With 10’, 15’, and 19’ 2” track length sections for the object to slide, the only limit to the distance covered by this system is the number of tracks you order. For longer distances or wider bridges, leap-frogging track lengths allow users to cover a nearly infinite distance with the same system.

Since these systems can safely operate without requiring lever hoists, winch lines, or holdbacks, it often makes for a safer and more efficient piece of equipment. 

To see this application in action, check out 536T Railroad Bridge Install with Hydra-Slide Skid System

Synchronous Lifting System

synchronous-lifting-system

A synchronous lifting system from LGH

LGH offers two sync lift systems for easily moving level objects with multiple lifting points, like bridges.

For this type of project, a more robust system allows 8-24 lifting points to be raised or lowered synchronously within 0.040″. It does this through an onboard computer that monitors and adjusts data for all connected cylinders as needed. This tool is a great option for tilting, leveling, and final positioning a bridge once in place.

We recommend having an engineer and someone familiar with the manual on-site when using this system. Ideally, you will also want to employ someone that has used the system on a previous job. Alternatively, the manufacturer can send a professional to operate the system for a fee, reducing potential issues.

Hydraulic Cylinders

hydraulic-cylinder

A hydraulic cylinder from LGH

You might be wondering why hydraulic rams are on this list. These powerful cylinders are essential for lifting defunct bridges, lowering new ones during rapid construction, and various other applications.

Although hydraulic rams have a long-standing history in bridge installation, their use in bridge repair is not as widely considered. Nonetheless, they are equally valuable in providing a safe and efficient means of performing various tasks. Some customers use hydraulic rams to relieve pressure on counterweights before replacing them during bridge repairs.

Air Tuggers

Air tuggers are uncommon on bridge jobs but can be crucial for lowering a drawbridge at a controlled speed.

air-winch

An air winch from LGH

While the job may require a low-speed winch, consider methods to boost lifting capacity while reducing pulling speed.

LGH handled such a situation on a previous job, working on the Congress Parkway Bascule Bridge in Chicago, IL. The customer had been directed to bring in a specific tugger with a low rate of speed and high capacity. Using our rental rep’s equipment expertise, we provided a more efficient and cost-effective solution. As a result, they completed the job on time, safely, and under budget.

 

Learn more about this project at the following link: Rehabilitating the Congress Parkway.

While there are several other functions these pieces of equipment offer, we hope you’ll keep these four in mind for your next bridge work project.

For more information on these products or others in our rental fleet, please click here to get connected with an expert member of our team, or give us a call at 800-878-7305.