Prefabrication of Concrete Bridges:(Technique & Equipment)

The present trend is concrete bridge construction is to use-prefabricated units to a large extent particularly where repetition is encountered. The trend was first set up by M. Freyasinet in the 40's and considerable development in technique have since then been made particularly in Europe. Greater strength of concrete, saving of formwork and staging and also shortening of construction time are the main advantages obtained. But unlike building components, bridge, elements are very heavy needing heavy haulage and lifting devices for manoeuvre and final placement. Thus in most cases, the units are manufactured in improvised factories set up at or near the site.