In a landmark achievement, four Sany pump trucks have successfully executed the final concrete pour for the right bearing platform of the eastern tower of China’s Shiziyang Bridge, poised to be the globe’s most colossal double-deck suspension bridge upon its fruition.
The operation entailed the utilization of C45 high-strength concrete, amassing a total volume of 25,000 cubic meters (32,699 cubic yards) within two circular edifices each boasting a diameter of 40 meters (131 feet) and a height of 9 meters (30 feet). The quartet of Sany pump trucks operated continuously for a grueling 22 hours to accomplish this feat.
Sany, a heavyweight in the multinational heavy equipment manufacturing sector based in China, heralded its step-less pressure-pumping system and cutting-edge digital main-valve technology. These innovations reportedly augmented directional changes by 20%, facilitating the pumping of an additional material load every hour. Moreover, the system is designed to thwart pipe blockages while championing energy-efficient operations.
Additionally, the company highlighted a novel power transmission system that purportedly diminished the operational velocity of the machinery, culminating in cost reductions. However, specifics regarding the employed power technology remain undisclosed.
Shiziyang Bridge Overview
Spanning an awe-inspiring length exceeding 35 kilometers (22 miles), the monumental Shiziyang Bridge will forge a vital connection between the eastern and western shores of the Pearl River Estuary, nestled within China’s Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Its centerpiece will feature a 2.2-kilometer (1.4-mile) long double-deck suspension segment.
The conceptual design of this engineering marvel was spearheaded by UK-based Knight Architects in collaboration with Danish engineering consultancy Cowi. Knight Architects elucidated, “The design encompasses a suspension main span, supported by 367-meter tall A-shaped towers, and shorter lateral spans atop frame-shaped piers. The double deck accommodates 16 lanes in total, with the decks forming the top and bottom chords of a Warren truss in the main span.”
The proposed bridge aims to seamlessly integrate complex engineering constraints with functionality, structure, and architecture, aspiring to become a landmark and harmonious addition to the landscape, significantly contributing to the future identity of the area.
The project, estimated to cost just shy of $7 billion, is slated for completion and will commence operations in 2028.
