Bearing replacements for Forth Road Bridge approach viaducts

Structural deficiencies in the Forth Road Bridge's approach viaducts, exacerbated by corrosion-induced bearing lock-up and chloride-contaminated concrete deterioration, necessitated a comprehensive bearing replacement project. The study highlights how these issues altered the bridge's articulation, compounding structural weaknesses. It provides a detailed account of the design and implementation of temporary works to maintain bridge stability during jacking operations while outlining modifications to facilitate bearing replacements. This case study offers valuable insights into the challenges of large-scale infrastructure maintenance in heritage structures.

Colford, B., Chiarello, M., Hendy, C. R., Pouya, H., Sandberg, J., & Smout, P. (2014). Bearing replacements for Forth Road Bridge approach viaducts. Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers - Bridge Engineering, 167(3), 170–182. https://doi.org/10.1680/bren.11.00051