Precast concrete tunnel and bridge arches: As a result of comprehensive research and development carried out by Reinforced Earth, TechSpan® was launched in 1989.
Reinforced Earth’s patented TechSpan® precast concrete arch systems are used for short to medium span earth-overfilled bridging structures. Our largest installation covers a 21m span (the largest precast concrete arch in the southern hemisphere).
Precast arches are ideal for roadway and railway bridge underpasses and mining tunnels, providing a versatile and durable solution for various applications.
Case study: Reinforced Earth designs and manufactures the Southern Hemisphere’s largest precast concrete arch for a mine site in Western Australia, spanning 21 metres. Read more
Precast concrete tunnel and bridge arches offer a range of applications
Now a matured choice for engineers, the 100-year plus lifespan TechSpan® precast arches are built for:
- Roadway and railway bridge underpass and overpass solutions, and covered tunnels
- Mining tunnels and overpass structures
- Explosives and munitions storage facilities for military and industry
- Industrial reclaim conveyor tunnels and escape routes
- Commercial and pedestrian overfilled passages
- Rockfall protection sheds and galleries
- Pedestrian passage and animal crossings (precast bridge solutions and overpass structures).
Versatile, flexible design – pre-engineered solutions
The TechSpan® precast concrete arch solution, while sophisticated in terms of design is simple for planners and builders to incorporate into their bridge and tunnel projects across Australia.
These precast engineered arch structures are designed to accommodate high fills, heavy live loads, as well as alternating loading conditions imposed during both installation and in service conditions.
Each TechSpan® concrete arch is specifically designed, structurally and geometrically for your application. Finite element model analysis design (FEM) accurately defines the optimal radius of curvature of the arch to minimise tensile stresses. Our approach results in slender concrete sections with optimised reinforcement for maximum safety in design and construction, with long service life at the lowest possible cost to the builder and end user.
All Reinforced Earth TechSpan® arches are designed for a 100-year plus life in accordance with Australian Standard – Bridge Design (AS5100 – 2004).
Try our free interactive design tool
Visit www.precastarches.com to tailor TechSpan® to your engineering and design project.
Optimised precast arch manufacturing
Using our unique flexible concrete precast formwork and quality-controlled casting process results in finished elements that conform to all geometric and material quality specifications.
Our design and material supply package of pre-engineered precast concrete arches often includes materials required to construct the necessary retaining structures for wing walls and spandrels, and other precast solutions including footings, copings, barriers and slip joints.
Fast concrete arch installation
Requiring only a narrow footprint to build, TechSpan® precast arch installation is simple, rapid, and predictable; requiring only a small work crew, light tools and conventional equipment. Erection rates of 10 to 20 linear meters of concrete arch per shift are possible with only a single crane with operator. The use of two cranes with operator will speed production at the initial start of installation.
Minimise site needs, minimise disruption
The TechSpan® solution eliminates the need for intensive onsite formwork, scaffolding, joints or bearings. Installation of our precast concrete arches overactive roadways, railways, waterways and conveyance systems is possible without disruption to the ongoing activity.
The abbreviated installation procedure consists of the following steps:
- Establishing keyway foundations
- Receiving and arranging precast arch segments
- Segment placement by crane(s)
- Grouting of concrete arch segments into the keyway
- Pouring of a crown beam or stitch joint
- Applying joint cover or waterproofing
- Backfilling per approved guidelines and specifications
Read our technical paper on precast concrete arches and TechSpan®.
For more information on Reinforced Earth’s precast concrete arch solution, TechSpan®, contact us or visit www.precastarches.com to try our free interactive precast arch design tool.
Benefits
Durability
Durability
The inherent durability of quality precast concrete provides a long service life with minimal maintenance requirements.
Cost savings
Cost savings
As opposed to alternatives, the cost savings using TechSpan® increase as the fill height imposed on the arches increases.
Full scope of services
Full scope of services
A full scope of services, from inception to completion:
- Feasibility studies and estimates
- P.E. sealed designs and calculations
- Manufacturing and delivery of materials
- Onsite technical assistance
- Instrumentation and monitorization
Solution bundling
Solution bundling
Designs and materials for headwalls, wing walls and collars are conveniently included in the Terre Armee material supply package.
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