Special works of art, such as bridges, viaducts, footbridges and tunnels, are fundamental structures in the road infrastructure, guaranteeing a safe connection between different points in a city, state or country. But have you ever wondered what building these essential structures actually involves? Let's explore this a little further.
What they are
In civil engineering, special engineering structures are classified into different types, each with a specific function:
- Bridges: Designed for the upper crossing of rivers, arms of the sea or other bodies of water.
- Viaducts: Used to overcome obstacles such as valleys or other roads, be they highways, railroads or avenues.
- Walkways: Structures intended for the safe passage of pedestrians over busy roads or other obstacles.
- Tunnels: Built to cross mountains or rocks, where an overpass would be unfeasible.
These structures not only facilitate urban and interurban mobility, but are also crucial for economic and social development, allowing for the efficient transportation of people and goods.
How they are made:
The construction of a bridge or viaduct begins with rigorous and detailed planning. Civil engineers carry out geotechnical studies to understand the soil on which the structure will be built. Designs are then drawn up that specify the materials to be used, such as reinforced concrete, steel or a combination of both.
The execution of the work involves several stages:
Foundation: The foundation is the base of the structure and must be robust enough to support the weight of the building and additional loads, such as moving vehicles or pedestrians. This can include the use of piles, foundation blocks and footings.
Support Structure: This stage includes the construction of pillars, beams and other elements that support the building. The process can involve pre-casting techniques or on-site concreting.
Superstructure: This is the visible part of the construction site, where traffic occurs. It involves the construction of the deck (in the case of bridges and viaducts) or the lining (in the case of tunnels).
Finishing: In this phase, the safety barriers, signs and sidewalk are installed. Load tests are also carried out to ensure the safety of the structure.
What to consider:
When building a special work of art, many factors must be considered:
- Safety: The structure must be designed to withstand the expected loads and resist extreme events such as earthquakes and floods.
- Durability: The choice of materials and construction techniques must guarantee the longevity of the work, minimizing the need for maintenance.
- Environmental Impact: It is essential to assess and mitigate environmental impacts during and after construction.
- Cost-effectiveness: Balancing quality with the available budget is a constant challenge in infrastructure projects.
At Traçado, our experience and commitment to quality allow us to deliver special works of art that not only meet expectations, but also contribute significantly to the sustainable development of our cities and regions.
