Case Study
The new composite Bradkirk Bridge, featuring materials and technology supplied by Gurit UK, was installed in an impressive 6 hours in Blackpool, Lancashire during May 2010. The bridge replaced 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™ technology 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.
A steel span designed to the current regulations would be likely to weigh around 16 tonnes.
The new Network Rail structure, with a total scheme cost of £665,000, was installed by Birse Rail during a routine line closure overnight on 17 May 2009 and was completed within 6 hours. 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.
