Launching of Haarbachtal Viaduct

At the new construction of Haarbachtal Viaduct part of motorway A544 near Aachen, construction has started at one of the most exciting sections: The launching of the first 157-metre-long bridge superstructure.

The new structure consists of two superstructures, designed as steel composite bridge with trapezoidal cross section. Because of the widely projecting deck slab, the deck is supported in transverse direction by double T-shaped longitudinal girders, which are connected to the structure’s main body by tension cords and compression diagonals.

On 11 December, launching of the two steel superstructures from direction Cologne started. The steel superstructures were launched in an elevated position by means of SPMTs (self-propelled modular transporters) and hydraulic strand jacks, and subsequently lowered to their actual position.

By using semi-prefabricated components, which are already set on the superstructure during launching, the deck slab does not require a formwork and construction advances rapidly.

Already in January 2024, the old, dilapidated bridge from 1956 was demolished. The structure was so severely damaged, that the bridge was only passable on one lane in the centre area, and neither could be used for construction logistic purposes during the construction process. Construction of the replacement is now in full swing as the new bridge has to be opened as fast as possible – according to current prognoses in September of next year.

SSF Ingenieure has been contracted by AMAND Bau NRW for the complete final design of the superstructure, the substructures and pit lining works.