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 today (February 26).
A spokesman for the Civil Engineering and Development Department said, "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 7am 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."
Since arriving in Hong Kong on February 16, 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 February 24, the barge moved to a position 30 metres from the bridge piers for final preparatory work.
At about 7am today, 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 1m 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 about 1.8 kilometre Cross Bay Link in Tseung Kwan O, comprising a marine viaduct of 1km in length, is scheduled for completion in 2022. For more information about the Cross Bay Link, Tseung Kwan O, please visit the project website (www.cbltko.hk).
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