A bridge girder launcher, also known as a bridge girder erection machine, is a type of equipment used in the construction of bridges. It is designed to lift and place precast concrete girders, which are the main structural elements of a bridge, onto the bridge piers or abutments.
The bridge girder launcher typically consists of a gantry structure, a lifting system, and a transport system. The gantry structure is a large, mobile platform that supports the lifting and transport systems. The lifting system consists of hydraulic jacks or winches that are used to lift the precast concrete girders into position. The transport system is a set of wheels or tracks that enable the girder launcher to move along the bridge deck.
During operation, the bridge girder launcher is positioned at one end of the bridge and the precast concrete girders are loaded onto the launcher. The launcher then moves along the bridge deck, placing the girders onto the piers or abutments as it goes. The lifting system is used to raise the girders into position, while the transport system moves the launcher along the bridge deck.
Bridge girder launchers are highly efficient and can be used to construct bridges quickly and safely. They are particularly useful for bridges with long spans or complex geometries, as they can be customized to meet the specific requirements of the project.
Overall, the bridge girder launcher is an essential piece of equipment in the construction of bridges. Its ability to lift and place precast concrete girders quickly and efficiently makes it an invaluable tool for bridge builders around the world.
