Innovation in mobile bridge systems

A new, advanced type of mobile bridge has recently entered the market. Its name: the SmartBridge. Thanks to a patented hydraulic system, the compact bridge can be assembled super fast and safely. Essential in emergencies, but also perfectly usable as a temporary facility when a bridge next to it is being built/repaired.

Verhoef Access Technology from Aalsmeerderbrug is a world leader in advanced gangways for the maritime sector, for example for oil and gas terminals. The company designed the revolutionary concept together with its Norwegian partner TecTrans. "For this, we entered into a partnership with Verhoef TecTrans Flex Systems (VTFS). Together we develop flexible systems for civil engineering," says COO Ruud Schwegler. 

Patented bridge design
This is a patented bridge design, a clever application that can be used both temporarily and permanently. The steel bridge can be transported by truck, folded compactly by a unique hydraulic unfolding system and easily set down. Within a few hours, the bridge can be operational. Therefore, it is perfectly suited for use in calamities such as floods, during unplanned road works or as an emergency bridge when the bridge next to it is being repaired/constructed. 

Variable composition for every situation
The loose steel deck plates with coarse steel grid provide the dressing and driving surface. The bridge contains one carriageway 3 m wide with steel ramps. The girder, the horizontal lower beam of the bridge frame, is supported by steel tensile wires attached to the top of the bridge. It is possible to equip the SmartBridge with bicycle and/or pedestrian paths, as well as traffic lights, making the bridge alternately usable. "But for faster throughput, two copies side by side are actually best," says sales manager Nils Duurkoop. "They can easily be placed next to and even behind each other." There are two types, with spans of 20 and 32 m. For larger spans, where several bridges are placed behind each other, piers/ floats must be made for support. Such a (temporary) solution can be realized within a few days. Duurkoop: "The SmartBridge can be placed anywhere as long as the bank is sturdy enough. Otherwise it has to be stabilized with driving plates or dragline plates. And with proper maintenance, the bridge will last at least 25 years."

Fits perfectly within the range
Currently, the 30-ton 20 m version is ready for production and can be ordered; the 32 m version will be on the market soon. Schwegler: "Like everything we manufacture, the SmartBridge is custom-made. We think it is a wonderful product that fits perfectly within the Verhoef range."