Tag Archive for: construction

Mafia Island Bridge Project – Mafia Island – Tanzania

Mafia Island Bridge Project

Located in the Indian Ocean just 20 miles from mainland Tanzania, Mafia Island is part of the Tanzanian Zanzibar Archipelago. With a population of just over 40,000, you could say this is a small island, yet it offers remarkable experiences to those who visit it. The economy of the island heavily relies on fishing, subsistence agriculture, and a recent growth in the tourism industry. And to keep these afloat, the island needs access to shipment of goods.

Cambridge Flat, A Bridge Solution

Mafia Island offers gorgeous islets, outstanding diving, snorkeling, historical sites, and a natural, untainted culture. In 1995, almost half of the Mafia Island coastline was designated as a marine park by the Tanzanian government. This initiative is to protect the island and its marine life. The 510 square-mile marine park is home to over 400 species of fish and 50 types of coral. However, there was a major challenge that the Mafia Island residents faced. The daily cycle of high and low tides was a significant deterrent to receiving and shipping local goods. During low tide, the coastline retreats a kilometer, thus, prohibiting supply boats and other large shipments from offloading. As a result, the residents had to walk out as far as they could into the Indian Ocean to physically bring shipments back to the island.

While supply boats could unload during high tide, they had to carefully accomplish this task. These boats had to avoid getting caught in the receding tide and not be beached when unloading. So, the engineers at U.S. Bridge were versed on these challenges and agreed to provide a custom bridge solution. This bridge project needed to not only meet the current needs of the customer but also provide options to accommodate future growth.

A Cambridge Flat for Mafians

To alleviate the challenges that were faced U.S. Bridge recommended a galvanized Cambridge Flat. The Cambridge Flat style bridge serves as a jetty to allow the offloading of freight and passengers to Mafia Island. The bridge totals 27 spans, stretching 1km (3,286’) long and 4.3m (14’) wide. It consists of 24 spans that are 40m (141’) with a width of almost 4.3m (14’), two wider transfer spans, and a platform at the end measuring 15m (49’) x 24m (79’). The all-bolted bridge has a load rating of HS-15, serving as a single vehicular lane with a wooden floor and guide rails.

Due to the single lane structure, U.S. Bridge recommended that 2 transfer spans, 15m x 8m, be incorporated into the bridge to allow oncoming cars and trucks to pass one another. And at the end of the bridge sits a 15m (49’) x 24m (79’) platform that was designed to facilitate the offloading of shipments. While the site was being prepared and the piers constructed, U.S. Bridge fabricated and shipped multiple spans to the project site in 54 containers during the first four months of the project. U.S. Bridge’s Technical Bridge Expert arrived on site during early construction to supervise the assembly of the bridge, train the installers, and clarify any issues that arose during this critical construction phase of the project.

U.S. Bridge Globally

Construction and installation of the Cambridge Flat bridge in Mafia Island went very smoothly with a completion date in the fall of 2012. Just over two years from the start of the project. This Cambridge Flat has improved shipping, primarily for the commercial fishermen of the island, resulting in Mafia Island becoming a major tourist hub in the Indian Ocean region. U.S. Bridge is proud to be a company that serves communities in the United States and globally. And to assist customers every step of the way. Contact us and get a quote for your project today!

Green and Sustainable Is the New Bridge Design

Green And Sustainable Is The New Bridge Design

The use of green and sustainable resources is seen more and more today. Many people have adopted this lifestyle in all aspects, from food, to the cars we drive. And now, the construction industry is following suit. All across the globe there are people using more eco-friendly materials and greener solutions in infrastructure. And now, being green and sustainable may be the future of bridge design and building.Green And Sustainable Is The New Bridge Design

Green and Sustainable Design

Green design focuses on protecting the environment and the health of people and wildlife. And sustainable design analyzes the long-term impact on these things, along with the economic aspects. In Logan County, OH, there’s already a bridge that is 100% made of recycled materials. In an effort to keep plastic waste out of landfills, this county incorporated such materials to make the bridge. Engineers used 80% post-consumer plastic (such as bottles and other containers) and 20% recycled car bumpers and dashboards. A first of its kind in the United States. This bridge replaced the previous one that was there, thus enhancing the traffic flow while helping the environment. Using green and sustainable methods in bridge design and building also guarantees durability and safety.

Environmental Impact of Steel

Using green and sustainable methods in bridge building is not limited to just plastic and such. In fact, steel is the most recyclable material on Earth, and at U.S. Bridge we are proud to build bridges made out of steel. The ability to melt down steel to repurpose it, allows us to contribute to efforts of sustainability. Therefore, steel not only adds less waste than other traditional materials, it is also affordable and durable. Builders save more money using steel because it is lightweight, which allows for a quicker building process. And it is more durable because steel is a strong material able to stand inclement weather, thus lasting for decades.

Begin Your Project with U.S. Bridge

In an effort to build long-lasting bridges that add to the improvement of communities, U.S. Bridge is committed to providing the best bridge building results. Steel has been one of the most used construction materials in the United States for generations and it will continue to be so due to its numerous benefits. Contact us today to get your project started.

U.S. Bridge Invests in New Peddinghaus Manufacturing Equipment

S. Bridge Invests In New Peddinghaus Manufacturing Equipment

At U.S. Bridge we pride ourselves on the quality of our work. Behind every good, long-lasting bridge, there is a team using state of the art machinery. We believe in investing in equipment that guarantees the best results and makes the manufacturing process safer and faster. Therefore, we have recently acquired two new Peddinghaus manufacturing machines. These new automated machines ensure accuracy at an incredibly fast production rate.S. Bridge Invests In New Peddinghaus Manufacturing Equipment

Peddinghaus Manufacturing Equipment

At U.S. Bridge, we continuously invest in state of the art technology to ensure better quality and a safe production environment. And to achieve that, we trust machinery manufacturer Peddinghaus. The company has been serving the steel construction, plate fabrication, and metal working industries since 1903. And just like U.S. Bridge, Peddinghaus has decades of experience providing excellence to their clientele worldwide. Peddinghaus manufactures machining equipment that enhances productivity and efficiency, and that utilizes the latest technology.

Innovation and Efficiency

Building bridges requires engineering, planning, and ultimately erecting the bridge. But before the erection of the final product, a lot of drilling and cutting takes place. So, in order to accomplish this and to continue to innovate and work efficiently, U.S. Bridge purchased a new beam drill line and an angle line.

The PCD 1100 beam drill line is one of the fastest solutions for structural steel. With a powerful spindle capability, our team members at U.S. Bridge use this beam drill line for heavy duty drilling. This feature is advantageous for U.S. Bridge in the completion of projects, thus guaranteeing our clients a job well done in a timely manner.

The AFPS-643/Q angle line is known for its accuracy and ability to cut in seconds. This angle-master is able to process parts such as clip angles/cleats, angle bracing, wind tower components, and transmission tower connections, just to mention a few.

Start Building with U.S. Bridge

At U.S. Bridge innovation, accuracy, safety, and efficiency are important elements in our projects. Keeping our clients and team members’ best interest in mind, we stay up to date as manufacturing technology and methods evolve. Contact us today and trust us with your next bridge project.

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.

Video of Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria

Video of Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria

Watch our summary video from Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria and the work that was done.

During devastation, we are there to help. Please fill out a free quote for more information on how we can partner with you to help during the most stressful of times.

The following is the transcript from  the video Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria in both English and Spanish

Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria: English Translation

In September of 2017, Hurricane Maria brought devastation to the island of Puerto Rico. This level 5 hurricane left the country without power … and over 1100 lives were lost to this catastrophic event.

U.S. Bridge brought relief to 5 communities throughout the island. This was achieved through use of modular designed Liberty bridges. In just six weeks, the bridges were manufactured and installation was completed to reconnect residents across the island. Over 850 metric tons of U.S. steel was used to create more than 950 feet of bridge. The Liberty Bridge design has been rigorously tested to ensure durability, and longevity.

Hope was restored. Life is getting back to normal. U.S. Bridge is committed to strengthening infrastructure by creating and reinforcing bridges that keep goods and services moving efficiently. The company’s primary goal in Puerto Rico is to aid those affected by the hurricane so that life can return to normal as quickly as possible.

U.S. Bridge is an Ohio based company with decades of bridge design, engineering, manufacturing, and construction experience. Inquire more about how the company is changing and strengthening America and the world’s infrastructure, one bridge at a time. Learn more at USBridge.com

Puerto Rico post Hurricane Maria: Spanish Translation

Este video es un resumen del trabajo realizado por U.S. Bridge en Puerto Rico después de que el huracán María dejó el país devastado.

En septiembre del 2017, el huracán María trajo devastación a la isla de Puerto Rico. Este huracán de nivel 5 dejó el país sin energía eléctrica … y más de 1100 vidas fueron perdidas en este evento catastrófico.

U.S. Bridge trajo alivio a 5 comunidades en toda la isla. Esto se logró mediante el uso de puentes Liberty de un diseño moderno de forma modular. En solo seis semanas, se fabricaron los puentes y se completó la instalación para volver a conectar a los residentes de toda la isla. Se usaron más de 850 toneladas métricas de acero de EE. UU. para crear más de 950 pies de puente. El diseño del puente Liberty ha sido rigurosamente probado para garantizar la durabilidad y la longevidad.

La esperanza fue restaurada. La vida está volviendo a la normalidad. U.S. Bridge se compromete a fortalecer la infraestructura mediante la creación y el refuerzo de puentes que mantengan los bienes y servicios en movimiento de manera eficiente. El objetivo principal de la compañía en Puerto Rico es ayudar a las personas afectadas por el huracán para que la vida pueda volver a la normalidad lo más rápido posible.

U.S. Bridge es una compañía con sede en Ohio que cuenta con décadas de experiencia en diseño, ingeniería, fabricación y construcción de puentes. Investigue más acerca de cómo la compañía está cambiando y fortaleciendo los Estados Unidos y la infraestructura mundial, un puente a la vez.

Get a free quote after devastation strikes

We want to reiterate, we are here to help. Please fill out a free quote if you live in an area where devastation has done damage to bridges. We can partner with you to help.

Myths: Modular Prefabricated Short-Span Steel Bridges Are Only Temporary Structures

Myths: Modular Prefabricated Short-Span Steel Bridges Are Only Temporary Structures

Modular, prefabricated steel bridges are often considered temporary structures. Using modular design and building bridges onsite has often been considered a more efficient building method, but a less stable one. However, after meeting all the permanence standards set by the AASHTO, the ASTM and the AWS, it was determined that pre-fab short span steel bridges can be considered permanent structures.

Standards for Permanence

Most often, the biggest concern facing modular bridges and permanence, relates to how they are constructed. Bridge parts must be assembled onsite, resulting in welding in possibly less than ideal conditions. For short span steel bridges, this concern is absolved because the welding is all done in a shop, under favorable conditions. This reduces the risk of introduced environmental factors during the welding process, and ensures the pre-fab bridge will withstand the rigors of time and weather.

Myth-Busting Short Span Steel Bridges

The Short Span Steel Bridge Alliance (SSSBA) reports the bridge industry is generally moving toward a modular bridge design. Due to the ease of assembly and the efficiency with which they can be built, pre-fab bridges make more sense. Timing is especially important regarding bridge construction since more than a quarter of all bridges across the United States have been deemed as “structurally deficient” or “functionally obsolete.” Also, using steel as the primary material for short span bridges brings a host of benefits including:

  • Consistent Quality
    Steel production is held to high standards and consistently meets quality requirements.
  • Sustainability
    Almost 93% of all steel is made from scrap steel.
  • American-made
    Structural steel is made in America, providing jobs to American workers and boosting the economy.
  • Quick fabrication and Installation
    Steel can be manufactured fairly quickly. This accelerates the construction timeline and decreases disruption to the surrounding areas.

To find out more about short-span steel bridges and how permanent they are, please contact us at U.S. Bridge today. Our expert team of engineers and builders are more than happy to discuss the benefits and strengths of modular bridge construction with you.

U.S. Bridge Featured in Cannelville Road Bridge Case Study

U.S. Bridge Featured in Cannelville Road Bridge Case Study

Once in awhile we are requested to perform along side of the best in our industry. The Cannelville Road Bridge was one of those stories. In Muskingum County we built a bridge that uses an innovative press-brake-formed steel tub girder (PBTG) system. We are proud of our technical prowess and innovation. We always build schedules […]

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