Humber Bridge – Expansion Joint Replacement

Home Humber Bridge – Expansion Joint Replacement

The Sollinger Hutte expansion joints were reaching the end of their life expectancy. Humber Bridge Board (HBB), recognising these works’ difficulty, used the YORcivil framework to procure a Main Contractor to manage the whole works package.

Target

  • To replace the existing Sollinger Hutte expansion joints with a new Design & Build replacement.

Action

  • Clean out Guarno from Barton end void
  • Protection to existing services around the joint during the works
  • Scaffold erection & dismantle to both abutments, to provide access to joint undersides
  • Temporary Cover Plate installation & removal (enabling night-time works, meaning the bridge remained fully open during the day).
  • Removal of bolts and deck weld securing the existing joints
  • Cutting and removal in sections of existing joints
  • Hydro-demolition of concrete abutment to remove existing joint boxes
  • Provision of Water Tankers for water and disposal during hydro-demolition works.
  • Preparation and installation of new rebar in the cleared abutment recess
  • Design, manufacture and installation of new expansion joints.
  • Noise monitoring throughout the works.
  • Tarmac planing & re-surfacing to carriageway either side of joint, including new ‘nosings’
  • Bridge deck waterproofing
  • New anti-skid surfacing & road markings

Result

  • Works completed successfully on time and within budget.

Stakeholders (HBB, bridge users, local residents)

Local residents were informed of and updated on the works with letters/door-to-door visits.

We worked closely with HBB and their design consultant to deliver a full design & build solution exceeding all key stakeholders’ expectations, with minimal disruption to bridge users/operations.

Challenges & Solutions

  • Keeping the bridge open – Our USP was our ‘cover plates’ solution, allowing night-time works, using only part closures and ‘contraflow’ traffic management. Daytime operations continued as normal
  • Installing the joint in 2 halves (Northbound/Southbound) – we offered a design & build jointing solution to connect the 2 halves in the middle.
  • Bad Weather – we were required to use our expertise working in all weather conditions.
  • Noise Control – we offered specialist containment to reduce noise, especially given the use of Hydro-demolition and night-time works (9pm – 5am)

The Difference We Made

  • Completion of all works without the need to close the bridge once
  • Full design & build solution successfully implemented
  • Providing another 40-50 years lifetime to these critical structural elements, creating a bridge that is safer for all to use.

Humber Bridge – Side Span Expansion Joint Replacement

Client: Humber Bridge Board
Location: Kingston Upon Hull
Contract Value: £2.2 million
Contract Period: 24 weeks (2 x 12 week phases)