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Continued...
The telescopic ram is a two-stage unit with 800mm and 910mm
cylinders inside an outer casing 12.9 metres long x 1.235 metres maximum outer
diameter. The ram is powered by three 132kW power packs to produce a maximum
operating thrust of 6581kN that will lift the bridge in 555 seconds and lower it
in 390 seconds. The bridge will still lift, but more slowly, even if only one of
the power packs is operating.
Trunnion bearings at the base of the ram and a pivoting
clevis at the top allow the ram to rotate approximately 7ยบ either side of
vertical as it raises and lowers the bridge. The whole assembly stands in a
reinforced concrete chamber beneath the north abutment, where the master control
cabinets will also be located. A slave cabinet in the south abutment will
provide control and power to the vehicle and pedestrian barriers, as well as the
bridge lighting.
Architects for the project are Wilkinson Eyre, with Gifford
and Partners acting as lead consultant and structural engineer. For more information, contact us on
01709-373782
December 2003
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