Large-scale construction site A42: Experts engage in 'dance of cranes' for seamless operation - Crane Ballet at Expansive A42 Building Site: Skilled Workers Executing Refined Dance Routines with Cranes
Major Construction Project on A42 Autobahn Near Bottrop Unveils Unique Crane Operation
In the Ruhr region of Germany, a significant construction project is underway on Autobahn 42. The six-lane expansion of the highway necessitates the demolition and rebuilding of an industrial bridge with a greater span, at a cost of approximately €35 million. The unloading of the new bridge parts is set to commence Tuesday.
The new industrial bridge, consisting of two halves each weighing 250 tons, will be assembled by the chemical company Evonik, working on behalf of the bridge owner, BP. Due to the bridge's weight, the Rhein-Herne Canal had to be especially dredged for its transportation. Two massive special crawler cranes, typically used for wind farm construction, will be employed to unload each half from the ship.
On Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, the cranes will synchronously lift and turn each bridge half 90 degrees while hanging from the hook. In anticipation of this delicate maneuver, the Rhein-Herne Canal will be fully closed, and on Monday, crane operators will practice the unloading in a test run without the actual weight. The assembly of the new industrial bridge is scheduled for the Pentecost weekend in just ten days.
Since parts also need to be swung over the Autobahn, the A42 will be entirely closed from Friday evening, June 6, 10:00 PM, to June 16, 5:00 AM. A special observation platform will be set up for spectators. The current A42 canal bridge for road traffic has become dilapidated and was temporarily closed at the start of 2024, impacting vehicles over 3.5 tons and utilising a barrier system to separate traffic.
The A42 is an essential east-west axis in the Ruhr region, connecting Duisburg and Dortmund, with approximately 82,000 vehicles using it daily. Despite the temporary closure, the "Crane Ballet"—as referred to by a spokesperson—is expected to attract public interest, as the synchronized lifting and turning of the bridge halves resembles a dance performance of sorts. However, there is no publicly documented evidence suggesting this term is associated with a specific dance form or practice.
Community aid in the form of traffic diversions and logistical support is crucial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Ruhr region, as the A42 Autobahn's six-lane expansion project disrupts transportation within the industry, particularly in the automotive sector that relies heavily on this east-west axis. Financing for the €35 million project comes from various sources, including public and private entities, ensuring the completion of the major construction task.
