TORRIDGE BRIDGE: CONSTRUCTION OF SUBSTRUCTURE AND DECK PRECASTING WORK.

This paper describes the work preceding the erection of the bridge superstructure. The deck segments were precast while the substructure was being built, thus optimizing the overlap of superstructure and substructure operations. The reduction of the overall construction period is one of the principal advantages of the glued segmental technique. The construction of the foundations and columns is described, including some of the problems encountered during work within the tidal range of the River Torridge. The techniques and the temporary works associated with construction of the reinforced concrete caissons for piers 3 and 4 are described in detail. The precasting shed and the equipment and facilities necessary for short-bed counter casting of bridge segments are explained and some difficulties discussed. Control of alignment on the casting bed is outlined. A problem with the rate of gain of concrete strength and its influence on the casting cycle is reviewed.(A) See also IRRD abstracts Nos 829917 and 829919.