Floats for transporting bridge

On behalf of "BSB Staalbouw," Inflate Works developed, produced and installed (inflatable) floats to transport a new table bridge from Sumar to Zuidhorn (Holland) using a push and pull boat. The total transport distance was 45 kilometers.

Navigation course

The bridge has a length of 61 meters and weighs 300 tons. It was navigated through the "Van Starkenborg" channel up to Zuidhorn. The advantage of using air inflatable cushions is the limited transport height of the bridge. As a result, the cargo can pass below all existing bridges, impossible with conventional pontoons.

Engineering

In cooperation with "BSB Staalbouw" and "HEBO," the engineering plan was developed. All parties involved together investigated the location of the floats and the way it could be connected to the bridge. Critical variables were floating power and stability. Part of the investigation as well as a risk analysis on the failure of one of the floats.

Production and installation

Inflate Works  produces the floating cushions in their production facilities in Europe . Air compressors to control the air pressure in the cushions during transport are produced and installed by Inflate Works  as well.

Mounting the floating body with ties to the bridge and connecting the air compressor installation was performed on the site of "BSB Staalbouw".

Operation

Inflate Works  was not only responsible for the development, engineering, and production but also was present during the operation. They were responsible for monitoring and control of the process.