GEOFOAM BRIDGE LIFT PROJECT

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GEOFOAM BRIDGE LIFT Project Case Study

Problem

The bridge deck sits on piles and the approach ramps are hinged on the bridge to allow even, gradual settlement between the asphalt roadway resting on the grade and the bridge. After many years, the slope of the ramp became too great for traffic, causing almost a “jump” at the hinge point. This was also a high traffic location, which made shutting down the full bridge for any length of time infeasible.

Solution

A technique was designed to effectively hinge the bridge slab and inject polyurethane below a portion of the concrete using hydraulic jacks and a fast density polyurethane. The crew was able to lift and support the bridge section using 19.5 cubic meters of polyurethane.

The Benefits

The lightweight, high density HMI polyurethane added minimal weight to the constant settling grade for the bearing portion of the bridge slab.
Minimal down time of only 2 days for the lifting and supporting of each slab with the ability to drive on again the following day.
Cheaper solution than removing the concrete, rebuilding the grade as required, and re-pouring a section of the bridge approach.
All work could be completed regardless of weather conditions (unless the ground is frozen) keeping the project on time and within budget.

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GEOFOAM BRIDGE LIFT PROJECT