To ensure the safety of overpasses and address the aging and damage of the bridges’ supports caused by long-term use, the supports replacement project for elevated bridges administered by Ningbo government was officially launched recently. Ningbo Municipal Housing and Urban-Rural Development Bureau stated that the maintenance mainly focused on the systematic replacement of bearings in key areas such as the Jiangnan Interchange, Zhongguan Overpass, and Qiaotai Interchange, aiming to completely eliminate safety hazards and ensure the safety of citizen's travel. The repair is a necessary measure for the periodic maintenance of infrastructure, aiming to extend the service life of bridges through scientific planning.

It is reported that this bearing replacement project mainly targets at 24 severely damaged pot-type and spherical steel bearings on 7 bridge piers. These bearings have generally shown signs of rubber aging, steel plate rust, and excessive displacement, posing a serious threat to the safety of the bridge structure, due to long-term vehicle loads and environmental erosion.

Advanced detection technologies and scientific design plans have been adopted to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the replacement. After detailed investigation and assessment, extended steel plates have been customized for each and every bearing to be replaced, furthermore, a PLC synchronous lifting system has been introduced to ensure the stability and safety of the bridge structure during the replacement process.

The launch of the replacement marks a solid step forward in the field of bridge maintenance in Ningbo. By completely eliminating the risk of bearing failure, the project will effectively enhance the overall safety performance of elevated bridges and provide more reliable guarantees for citizens’ travel.

The chief in charge stated that the entire replacement work was expected to be completed by the end of June. During this period, construction standards would be strictly followed to ensure the quality and safety of the project, while the influence on citizens’ daily travel would be minimized to a large extent.   

The official launch of the bearing replacement project for elevated bridges administered by Ningbo government is not only an essential upgrade to Ningbo’s infrastructure but also a fulfillment of the commitment to citizens’ safe travel. As the project goes on smoothly, the overpasses will continue to support the development and prosperity in Ningbo with a more stable posture in the future.