World's First 350 km/h High-Speed Rail and Highway Mixed-Layer Bridge
Source: CRCC
6/29/20241 min read
On June 24, a significant milestone was reached in engineering as the main tower of the Ganjiang Rail-Road Bridge was topped out. Designed by the China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC), this bridge is the world's first to integrate both 350 km/h high-speed rail and highway traffic within a mixed-layer structure. This achievement represents a crucial advancement towards the full operation of the Nanchang-Jiujiang High-Speed Railway line, underscoring the project's importance and complexity.
The Ganjiang Rail-Road Bridge sets multiple world records, distinguishing itself with the highest number of highway lanes and the greatest traffic capacity among rail-road bridges globally. It also claims the title of the world's largest-span bridge that combines high-speed rail and highway in a mixed-layer design. The structure introduces two groundbreaking innovations: a harp-shaped cable-stayed design specifically for 350 km/h trains and a unique large cantilever steel truss beam section that supports both rail and road traffic, showcasing remarkable engineering prowess.
The design of the bridge harmonizes structural integrity with aesthetic elegance. Its gracefully curved profile, adorned with symbolic text, enhances the wide main beam and distinctive harp-shaped cable arrangement. The tower itself is emblazoned with the Chinese character "昌" (Chang), paying tribute to Nanchang city and reflecting the ancient concept of "prospering the southern frontier." This thoughtful design not only ensures functionality but also celebrates cultural heritage, making the bridge a landmark of both engineering and artistic significance.
A standout feature of the bridge is its stay cables, which are meticulously arranged like harp strings. Each cable, composed of 547 high-strength steel wires, measures an extraordinary 21.1 centimeters in diameter, a rare specification in global bridge construction. These cables are engineering marvels, contributing to the bridge's robust structural integrity and aesthetic allure. This blend of innovative engineering and design excellence sets the Ganjiang Rail-Road Bridge apart as a pioneering feat in modern infrastructure.
