Railway lift bridge renovation

The railway lift bridge over the Oude Maas near Dordrecht forms an essential link for rail traffic and marine navigation. The bridge is currently undergoing renovation work, during which the bearings of the sheave wheels will be replaced.

During the preparation phase, Iv drew up the contract in which the technical requirements and implementation terms were set out. Now that contractor Hollandia is carrying out the work, Iv will ensure that the work meets the contractual agreements and quality standards. This involves supervising the implementation, technical testing, monitoring progress, safety, and advising on practical solutions. This ensures the renovation proceeds according to plan and that the bridge will continue to function reliably for many years to come.

The bridge is a complex mechanical system in which the movable deck is lifted and lowered with cables. First, the counterweight will be raised, after which the cables can be removed from the sheave wheels and the wheels disassembled. Replacing the bearings and axles is precision work: the old bearings and axles will be removed first, then the holes in the axles enlarged by boring and honing. Once the wheels have been heated, the new bearings and axles can be installed. The work will occur during a five-week waterway closure, during which the bridge will be out of operation. There will be no disruption to train traffic during the work.

These works contribute to the reliability and lifespan of the railway bridge, which forms a crucial link in the Dutch rail network.