Rolled metal for the longest suspension bridge in South America

The unique steel suspension bridge in Chile, South America stands out as one of the most challenging engineering projects ever undertaken.

The Chacao Bridge project is located just 80 kilometers from the epicenter of the 9.5 magnitude earthquake that hit the country in 1960. The designers faced an additional problem associated with strong currents and winds in the region, the speed of which can reach more than 200 km /h. By the way, the bridge will connect the island of Chiloe with the mainland through a sea channel.

The Chilean government has signed a contract with a consortium of OAS, Hyundai, Systra and Aas Jakobsen, led by Hyundai. The project is overseen by the multidisciplinary advisory group Arup.

The bridge will be supported by three reinforced concrete towers with two main spans of 1,055 m and 1,100 m and a 380 m long suspended side span. Steel reinforcing bars are used in the pile structure to ensure the seismic performance of the concrete towers. The top consists of a 70 mm thick outer steel casing. The steel core is expected to provide protection against ebb and flow. The bridge deck is 24 m wide and made of structural steel.

The suspension bridge is valued at over $ 700 million and is expected to open in 2023.