Tag Archive for: bridges

How to Combat Bridge Corrosion

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Whether you are dealing with a giant suspension, cable-stayed, or truss bridge, your structure is sensitive to corrosion over time. Many things can cause corrosion, including natural elements like fire and water damage. But over time, corrosion will reduce the strength of a bridge’s structural elements, lower the load-bearing capacity, and increase fatigue on the structure.

To help maximize the strength and integrity of your bridge structure, here are several practical ways to combat bridge corrosion.

Regular Inspections

This one is self-explanatory but still the most reliable method to avoid bridge corrosion. Inspect bridges regularly and take note of any warning signs of corrosive damage. This will allow you to take early action and prevent catastrophic damage before it happens.

Also, make sure not to limit inspections only to the primary structural elements. Check things like the utility infrastructure elements that are suspended beneath bridges: hangers and seals are often affected by corrosive substances and can cause significant damage to the overall structure if left unattended.

Repairs

During your regular inspections, you may encounter regular signs of wear and tear on the structure. Getting a head start on making these repairs can prevent larger, more serious structural damages from accumulating in the future. For example, make sure to repair cracks and potholes as soon as possible; this will help prevent fluids from penetrating the roadbed and damaging the substructure.

Here are a couple of key fixes to consider:

  • Apply an epoxy coating to the reinforced steel embedded within the concrete beams and pillars. While this may not completely halt the corrosion process, it will definitely slow it down between inspections.
  • Use less permeable concrete when making repairs to the bridge infrastructure. This can help prevent water from reaching and rusting the internal metal substructures.
  • Apply a sealant between the bridge deck and the upper driving surface. It will prevent seepage and pooling of corrosive solutions on and around the bridge’s metal components.

Galvanization

Many builders utilize the hot-dip galvanizing technique when constructing bridges. After properly cleaning and preparing the steel, it is submerged in 85% pure molten zinc, which reacts with the iron steel to create a strong, bonded coating.

There are many benefits to galvanizing. Mainly, galvanized steel does not require regular maintenance; in fact, galvanized steel prevents corrosion for up to 100 years in many cases. In fact, a galvanized bridge can reduce regular bridge maintenance by 50%.

Heating systems

If a bridge exists in a climate with extreme winter weather conditions, installing specialized heating systems can help deter the buildup of ice and snow. Using these systems can reduce the use of more harmful chemical solutions and require a large upfront investment, but they can pay off over time, especially in cold, snowy climates. This can also cut into the cost of workers needed to apply melting solutions, clear snow, and perform additional bridge maintenance and repairs.

Built to Last

As industry leaders and an AISC-recognized supplier, we guarantee the highest quality steel for every project. We build durable, reliable bridges quickly, using only the best tools and techniques available. Our pride comes from our wide variety of prefabricated bridge designs, which we know will easily meet your unique project needs.

Contact us for a free estimate, or use our industry-leading Bridgescope tool to begin planning your project now!

What is Weathering Steel?

Weathering Steel

Perhaps you’re considering constructing a bridge and you’re coming across terms like weathering steel, galvanizing steel, or corten steel, but you aren’t entirely sure what it is. Here at U.S. Bridge, we’ve built vast arrays of bridges for different locations across the nation. So we’ve created a guide to help you decide if weathering steel is the right step for your building project. Learn all about weathering steel in this article.

What is Weathering Steel?

Many builders choose this material for its durable and ductile features. Weathering steel is a low-carbon metal that contains additional alloy elements, including nickel and copper, which provides the metal better strength and resilience to corrosion. In addition, it is more affordable than other substances such as galvanized steel. Of course, this material isn’t ideal for every project or location.

Weathering Steel

Things to consider for Weathering Steel

The Pros of Weathering

The most notable component of weathering steel is its ability to resist corrosion. For this reason, it is a popular choice for exposed steel bridges or buildings. Weathering steel undergoes a process known as useful corrosion. While rusting is a problematic and even dangerous occurrence with other steel structures, it actually protects the material from further deterioration. Rust will only form in the outer layer of the steel which will then turn into a protective barrier that aids the resistance of future corrosion.

Additionally, the material requires little maintenance which is not only beneficial for rural or limited access areas but it also saves money in the long run. In studies, weathering steel has lasted several decades with minimal maintenance. And since the repair tends to be less involved, these bridges cost less over their lifetime than those made with other materials.

As a bonus, these structures don’t need paint for either protection or aesthetic reasons. Many people find the rust patina of this material to be attractive on its own and it helps avoid Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions from paint coatings.U.S. Bridge Cambridge

The Cons of Weathering

Although weathering steel may sound ideal, there are a few factors that should be considered before construction. Certain weather and climate conditions can lead to issues with durability and corrosive resistance. For example, weathering steel should not be built in a high-chlorine environment.

In addition, it functions best with alternative wet and dry condition cycles. If the environment is continuously wet or damp such as submerged in water or buried under soil then it impedes the steel’s ability to effectively resist corrosion.

While many appreciate the aesthetic of its natural rust-like patina, it also creates an opportunity of staining nearby structures; so it’s best to keep it away from concrete or other easily-blemished materials.

Contact U.S. Bridge Today

Are you looking for a company to assist with your building projects? Here at U.S. Bridge we know that choosing the right material for your bridge takes a combination of experience, expertise, and skill.  The goal is to ensure the final product is complete on time and it matches your exact specifications.

To learn more about our steel bridge engineering and manufacturing, contact us for a quote or to answer any questions. Or you can scope and start building the bridge on your own with our U.S. Bridge Project Scope.

U.S. Transportation Infrastructure Lacks Critical Funding

Transportation Infrastructure

Drivers in America drove over 3.2 trillion miles in 2018 — an average of some 14,000 miles per licensed driver. But much of these travels are along a U.S. transportation infrastructure that is quickly deteriorating and needs federal funding.

According to an April update from TRIP, a national transportation research nonprofit based in Washington D.C., “the need for transportation improvements far outpaces the amount of state and federal funding available.” As of 2020, 43% of major roads in the U.S. are in poor or mediocre condition. In addition, 7% of bridges are in poor or structurally deficient condition.

U.S. Transportation Infrastructure is falling behind

In 2017, the American Society of Civil Engineers assessed the condition of America’s roads as a D grade. Additionally, overall condition was given a D+. In three years since, vehicle travel has increased 17%. But new traffic has failed to be mitigated, with only a 5% increase in new roadways constructed.

The effect? 6.9 billion hours a year in traffic. On average, it costs $603 per year for each American motorist, according to the TRIP data. This is despite the state Department of Transportations spending more building new roads than maintaining the ones they have that are in bad condition.

“Most systems that make up our network of interstate highways are at least 50 years old, so there has to be substantial reinvestment to make sure those assets can keep up with daily wear and tear,” Jim Tymon, executive director of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, said to the New York Times.

Voting for improved roads

The backlog for transportation infrastructure improvement has a great effect on voters. In 2018, 270 of 305 transportation-related state and local ballot measures were approved, according to the Transportation Investment Advocacy Center.

Clearly, there is a need for more funding on every government level. And it’s the every-day civilian motorist that’s feeling the effect.

Why improve roads and bridges?

Roads and bridges are essential parts of America’s economy. Bridges transport trillions of dollars in goods every year, create jobs, connect communities, and allow motorists to travel feely. These central parts of the U.S. economy are in critical need of repair and improvement, and these improvements can create economic recovery.

Boost the economy

The design, construction and maintenance of America’s roads and bridges supports approximately 4 million full-time jobs. By investing into transportation infrastructure, the government can create valuable jobs. In the long-term, this will enhance economic competitiveness and stimulate sustained job growth.

Improve road safety

Between 2014 and 2018, an average of 35,784 people died on America’s roadways. A contributing factor to these accidents is the lack of adequate roadways safety features.

According to a 2017 report, every $100 million spent on roadway improvements would reduce the number of traffic fatalities by 44 and serious traffic injuries by 760 over a 20-year period. Not only are motorists losing precious time due to a decrepit transportation system, many have lost their lives.

With safety improvements such as passing lanes, wider lanes, medians, turning lanes, and clearing roadside objects, many accidents and costs to motorists can be avoided.

COVID-19 and Transportation Infrastructure

Due to roads being less busy during the COVID-19 pandemic, many states have pushed to fast-track infrastructure construction projects. In many places this has been successful, and many projects are being completed faster than originally planned.

However, once roads return to relative normality, the long-term effect of COVID-19 could be catastrophic to transportation infrastructure. Keep in mind, the fast-tracked projects were previously approved. With state budgets taking a large hit, it’s likely states will cut back on large infrastructure investments in the coming months and even years.

Budget loss due to COVID-19

As a result of the drop in traffic, state Departments of Transportations are estimated to lose an average of 30% of transportation revenues over the next 18 months. Some will lose even more. Meanwhile, the American Public Transportation Association has requested $24 billion to cover operational costs for hard-hit transportation agencies. With a recent grade of D+ for infrastructure, losing this time in improving the nation’s infrastructure could be catastrophic and even deadly in the long-term.

Improve America’s Transportation Infrastructure

The time for federal agencies to invest in America’s infrastructure is now. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government was in talks to pass a $760 billion five-year plan to invest in infrastructure. An investment of this magnitude is no longer optional — it’s essential to maintain our transportation infrastructure.

Not only will it create jobs and economic opportunity, but it will save countless lives as the roads and bridges improve over time. Countless industries have received federal stimulus and aid during this time. To ensure a safe future, infrastructure must be one of them.

U.S. Bridge is proud to contribute sustainable solutions to America’s infrastructure. Our bridges are sustainable and safe, making transportation possible for people everywhere. Get a quote from us for your next bridge project or learn more about our steel bridges. Together, we’ll build a better future for America’s infrastructure.

Pre-Planning Projects with a Strategy-Based Approach

Devising a plan is one of the necessary steps that lead to successful construction. In order to build the best quality bridge, construction workers must strategically plan the process ahead of time. Before deciding what is going to be built, consider how it is going to be built. The two go hand in hand when achieving projects. To shape the best results, construction workers must keep the planning process in mind. More importantly, the pre-planning process! While it can be a challenge, pre-planning construction is fundamental and crucial.

Strategy-Based Projects

To start with a plan, one must have an end goal. In other words, a strategy-based process is necessary to achieve your intended goal. U.S. Bridge takes both speed and quality seriously when it comes to building quality bridges. Start on the ends and make your way to the middle. This means determining your end goal, pre-planning your project, then working to connect the two. During construction, it will help to track your performance to make sure you are meeting your mark. Using 3 steps, you can execute your next construction project:

  • Pre-plan
  • Track/measure your performance
  • Meet your Goal

Realistic Measurement

In addition, measurement is a critical component of construction. There are numerous qualities of measurement that must be considered during the design and building processes. Some qualities include:

  • Dimension
  • Quantity
  • Level
  • Pressure
  • Time

At U.S. Bridge, precision is essential during measurement. In fact every detail of our bridges are met with a level of attention and efficiency to ensure it is delivered on time and to your specifications. These are all measurements that ensure longevity, durability, and sustainability.

Pre-Planning Project Completion

In the construction realm, possibilities such as natural disasters, emergencies, and accidents may occur. These are factors every laborer must be prepared to confront. Ideally, every team’s goal is to complete projects as quickly as possible. However, one cannot escape the inevitable. So, be sure to devise a realistic rate of completion when pre-planning your project.

Quality Assurance

U.S. Bridge understands the value of our customers. Our 80 years of construction experience teaches us the best ways to build quality bridges. Pre-planning our projects facilitates the process and leads to success. For questions or concerns, contact us today and get a quote to start on your next project!

Achieving Job Satisfaction in Construction

Achieving Job Satisfaction

Nothing beats the feeling of looking forward to work the next day. Over the years, job satisfaction in the workforce has increased significantly. In fact, according to the Employee Job Satisfaction and Engagement Report led by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the number of employees satisfied with their job rose from 81% in 2013 to 88% in 2016. In just three years, the percentage increased by 7%! Figuring out ways to attain job satisfaction among industries will enhance work ethic and strengthen customer service. But how can we achieve this goal?

Benefits of Job Satisfaction

In a competitive market, customers have plenty of companies to target. The goal is to be their number one choice. Keeping workers happy will strengthen the overall company and will boost a customer’s desire to work with you. There are many benefits that result from content laborers including:

  • Higher productivity
  • Increased profits
  • Greater work ethic
  • Healthy environment
  • Enhanced collaboration

Overall, employees are one of the top resources of an organization. According to a study led by Pew Research Center, about 51% of U.S. workers say they get a sense of identity from their job. This is extremely important as it helps shape people and their careers.

Construction Industry

Bouncing back from a recession low, the construction industry has been working its way back up. According to TINYpulse’s Best Industry Ranking report, from over 30,000 employees across more than 500 organizations and among 12 distinct industries, construction and facility service workers are the happiest employees. Much of that number comes from thorough training. As new workers enter the industry, employers are working hard to properly train new employees on overall skills.

Mental Health Awareness

Ironically, as the above study shows that construction workers are the happiest among industries, mental health is still a factor to consider. Overall, the social stigma about mental health is gradually decreasing. So it is important to make sure team members feel at ease, safe, and motivated to work. According to the Health and Safety Executive, work-related ill health is increasing in the construction sector. In fact, everyday presents risks on the job site. With the use of heavy and potentially dangerous equipment, safety is the number 1 factor to keep in mind in the construction industry. Each year, about 2,000 accidents occur among workers that lead to injury or fatalities. With that said, it is crucial that construction companies make sure their employees communicate any discomfort or stress-related health issues in advance.

Job Satisfaction is a Priority

Significantly, job satisfaction is a priority that must be met in order to advance industries. It will change the way employees serve and improve the quality of labor. The construction industry is growing rapidly and at U.S. Bridge, we serve to meet the needs of our customers with quality steel bridge building. So, working together to achieve job satisfaction will take us one step ahead. Contact us today to get a quote.

Busting the Myth: Painting or Repainting Steel Bridges Is a Problem

Busting The Myth Painting Or Repainting Steel Bridges Is a Problem

There’s a persistent belief in the bridge building business that painting steel bridges is an impossible task. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In reality, painting or repainting steel bridges can be a challenge, but it’s in no way an insurmountable one. Not only are there a number of new coatings that comply with EPA standards, but affordable options also exist for repainting current bridges. Read on to discover U.S. Bridge’s thoughts regarding painting steel bridges.

Controversy Surrounding Painting Steel Bridges

Paint is a hot-button issue in the bridge building world. In recent years, the EPA has imposed strict standards regarding the use of paints containing lead and volatile organic compounds. So, companies must take steps to protect workers engaged in removing lead-based paints from older bridges. In particular, dealing with the topcoat is a key concern, as removing, containing, and disposing of this material can be as expensive as replacing the bridge system entirely. In some cases, it may be possible to delay eventual paint removal. At other times, bridge builders may be able to perform spot or zone treatments rather than removing the entire topcoat.

The good news is manufacturers have made significant strides in creating safe, high-performance coatings that comply with EPA regulations. Experts predict that coating technologies will continue to improve, becoming more affordable and durable.

Multi-Coat Shop Systems

When painting steel bridges, or repainting old bridges, using a multi-coat system is often regarded as an effective way to go. However, it’s worth noting that a multi-coat system can result in reduced corrosion resistance along with increased fabrication costs and compromised aesthetics. As a result, companies must be aware of the need to balance various concerns when painting or repainting steel bridges.

Contact U.S. Bridge Today

Want to bring your bridge project to life? At U.S. Bridge, we offer a wide range of prefabricated bridge styles to meet your needs. Whether your setting is urban or rural, modern or traditional, we can help you achieve your goals while creating a lasting impression. Ready to get started? Call today or contact the U.S. Bridge team online.

U.S. Bridge Assists in the Construction of the 41st St. Chicago Pedestrian Bridge

USB Assists In The Construction Of The 41st St. Chicago Pedestrian Bridge

At U.S. Bridge, we pride ourselves on bringing a wide range of bridge projects to life across the globe. Our high-quality steel bridges are designed to withstand the test of time while providing safe passage for pedestrians and vehicles. To that end, we were thrilled to assist in the 41st Street Chicago Pedestrian Bridge, recently erected by S & J Construction.

What the Project Entailed

Selected from among numerous bridge fabricators across the nation, U.S. Bridge was chosen to provide the temporary bridge used for the erection of the new signature pedestrian bridge. The U.S. Bridge temporary bridge was incorporated into the project to maintain traffic of the metro rail line below, and to permit a continuous work environment all while ensuring the safety of the workers and the traveling public.

Because the components were fabricated ahead of time, construction of the U.S. Bridge temporary bridge occurred over a few brief hours, minimizing construction disturbances for both Lake Shore Drive and the railroad.

The new signature bridge is designed to echo the appearance of Olmsted’s original Chicago walkways. The bridge boasts double-curved arch mono trusses that provide structural rigidity while offering resistance against high winds. As a bonus, the bridge features energy-efficient lighting and low-glare illumination. The end result is a beautiful, sleek pedestrian bridge that adds interest to the urban landscape.

A Cambridge Flat Bridge Built to Last

A Warren Truss girder bridge, features a top chord with a polygonal shape. The design is also known as a camelback. Attractive and efficient, this steel bridge is ideal for both city and country locales. Builders can choose from one, two, and three-lane options with a width range between 12 and 44 feet.

Contact U.S. Bridge Today to Start Building Something Exceptional

A leading provider of public and private sector bridges around the globe, U.S. Bridge has more than 80 years of experience in the design and manufacture of quality steel bridges. We’re passionate about creating high-end, safe structures at prices that are affordable. To learn more about our bridge building services, call today or contact U.S. Bridge online for a quote.