Hong Kong, 26 February 2021 — The erection of the prefabricated double-arch steel bridge for the Cross Bay Link, Tseung Kwan O, which is also the largest component of the bridge, was completed.
“As the double-arch steel bridge weighs over 10,000 tonnes, the project team adopted the ‘float-over method’ and took into account the tidal conditions for its erection. The entire process lasted about five hours, commencing from 7 AM until close to noon. This is the first time the ‘float-over method’ has been applied for bridge construction in Hong Kong. The project team has conducted a meticulous analysis of every step to ensure smooth execution of the erection process,” a spokesman for the Civil Engineering and Development Department said.
Since arriving in Hong Kong on 16 February 2021, the semi-submersible barge loaded with the double-arch steel bridge has been moored at the Junk Bay temporary anchorage area in preparation for installation. On 24 February, the barge moved to a position 30 metres from the bridge piers for final preparatory work.
At about 7 AM, the barge moved in between the bridge piers during the high tide window. After precise positioning of the double-arch steel bridge, the barge pumped in 27,000 cubic metres of seawater for ballast, correspondingly lowering the barge by 1 metres for the double-arch steel bridge to touch down onto the piers. Successful completion of the erection process marks a key milestone for the Cross Bay Link project.
The 1.8 kilometres Cross Bay Link in Tseung Kwan O, comprising a marine viaduct of 1 kilo metres in length, is scheduled for completion in 2022. — Construction+ Online
