AMECO’s Custom Derrick Sleds for Efficient Bridge Construction

Bridge construction is a complex undertaking, requiring specialized equipment and meticulous planning. One piece of equipment that is especially useful for bridge construction is the stiff leg derrick. Recently, our Infrastructure & Marine team has been hard at work designing and fabricating custom derrick sleds for a series of stiff leg derricks specifically tailored for a major bridge construction project.

The Challenge: Navigating Forces and Facilitating Movement

Stiff leg derricks, while powerful, exert significant forces on the bridge structure during lifting operations. These forces include:

• Thrust: Downward pressure on the bridge deck.
• Uplift: Upward force generated by the derrick’s tendency to tip.
• Sheer: Horizontal forces acting on the bridge.

Our custom derrick sleds are engineered to:

• Distribute these forces effectively: By strategically transferring the load to the strongest points on the bridge deck.
• Enable mobility: Unlike traditional derrick foundations, these sleds are designed to be moved along the bridge as construction progresses, allowing for efficient and continuous work.

A Tailored Approach:

Each bridge presents unique challenges, necessitating customized sled designs. AMECO often works with Somerset Engineering to custom design sleds specifically for our bridge construction clients. We work closely throughout the design process to ensure the sleds are optimized for each specific application and meet all safety and operational requirements. This level of collaboration maximizes safe and efficient operations throughout the project.

Manufacturing Precision:

The manufacturing process involves meticulous attention to detail. We utilize precise engineering drawings and employ rigorous quality control measures to ensure each sled meets the highest standards. To facilitate field installation, we match-drill components and tag them to their respective derricks, minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth erection.

Proven Success:

AMECO has a long history of providing reliable equipment for challenging construction projects. Our stiff leg derricks have demonstrated exceptional performance in previous bridge construction endeavors, such as the Bayonne Bridge in New Jersey and the Port Mann Bridge in British Columbia. These projects have highlighted the efficiency and capability of stiff leg derricks in bridge construction, and AMECO’s position as a trusted partner in the industry.

The Future of Bridge Construction:

AMECO’s innovative solutions like custom derrick sleds will play a crucial role in shaping the future of bridge construction. By optimizing efficiency and safety while minimizing downtime, we help our clients deliver projects on time and within budget, while ensuring the highest levels of safety and quality.

Contact AMECO today to learn more about how our specialized equipment can support your next bridge construction project.