Mammoet, a global leader in heavy lifting and transport solutions, recently completed the installation of a 33.5-meter (110 ft.) long bridge over the bustling lanes of the Dallas North Tollway (DNT) in Addison, Texas. This accomplishment marks yet another milestone in Mammoet’s storied history of executing complex projects with precision and efficiency.
The process of installing the bridge involved meticulous planning and execution. Weeks prior to the installation, Mammoet’s expert team constructed the bridge off-site, ensuring every detail was meticulously attended to. The bridge was then transported to the installation site, where Mammoet’s crews embarked on the intricate task of lowering it into position.
So, how did Mammoet pull off this impressive feat? The key lay in innovative engineering and careful coordination. During the mobilization phase, Mammoet’s team ingeniously built a custom transport frame directly over the assembled bridge. This frame, repurposed for the specific requirements of the project, served as the foundation for the subsequent stages of the operation.
To facilitate the lifting of the bridge, Mammoet deployed a sophisticated system comprising four 16-ton air hoists attached to beams positioned at the apex of the frame. These hoists were meticulously rigged to the bottom chords of the bridge, ensuring a secure and controlled lift. The strategic placement of the hoists enabled the crew to navigate the freeway barriers effortlessly while maintaining adequate clearance for the bridge.
Despite facing a tight timeframe, Mammoet’s team demonstrated remarkable efficiency, completing the entire operation in a fraction of the allotted time. What was initially slated as a 5-hour window for completion was swiftly accomplished in a mere 1 hour and 15 minutes, showcasing Mammoet’s commitment to delivering results with speed and precision.
The newly installed bridge holds significant importance as it will serve as an integral component of a regional hike and bike trail, aligning with the trajectory of the DART Silver Line.