Category: Monthly Webinar Construction Methodology for Alconétar Arch Bridges in Spain

March 15, 2018 1:00 pm

Javier Martinez Gutierrez, Executive Director of ALE Heavylift, Naval Architect; and Jordi Revoltós, M. Sc. Structural Engineer Head of Bridges and Viaducts Department, SENER

Webinar Documents:
Construction Methodology for Alconétar Arch Bridges in Spain - pdf of presentation
Construction Sequence - YouTube video
Wind Problems - YouTube video
Q&A Session - pdf
News - March 15, 2018
 - pdf of presentation

Description: Design and construction of bridges over deep valleys requires innovative approaches. The 16-span Alconétar Viaduct in the community of Extremadura in the western Iberian Peninsula of Spain consists of twin 1,200-ft-long deck arch bridges that cross the Tagus River. In 2006 this bridge was constructed using an innovative ABC methodology that included lifting the two semi-arches into a vertical position and then swivel lowering them for their crown closure, followed by incremental launching of the deck. Major activities carried out by the contractor to complete the construction of this bridge included:

  • Pushing bridge section 645 feet long
  • Skidding lower arch section 196 feet long, weighing 250Te over the bridge section
  • Tilting and lowering lower arch section 196 feet long, weighing 250Te
  • Skidding upper arch section 196 feet long, weighing 250Te
  • Final tilting of upper arch 196 feet long, weighing 250Te
  • Tilting and closing semi-arches
  • Pushing bridge section 565 feet long and final fitting
  • Replacement of temporary supports with the final supports

Presentation Photos/Graphics:

1) Pushing bridge section 645 feet long

2) Skidding lower arch section 196 feet long, weighing 250Te over the bridge section

3) Tilting and lowering lower arch section 196 feet long, weighing 250Te

4) Final tilting of upper arch 196 feet long, weighing 250Te

5) Tilting and closing semi-arches

6) Skidding of the bridge sections simultaneously from both abutments