A historic railway bridge in Sweden, known as the “Tysk Bro” (German Bridge), has been replaced after serving the region for nearly a century. The bridge, located on the railway line between Vänersborg and Djupedalen and spanning Sweden’s largest lake, Vänern, was originally constructed by German engineers. However, age had taken its toll, necessitating its dismantling and replacement.
To ensure minimal disruption to rail traffic, construction of the new bridge sections began early. Swedish company Jinert was tasked with the complex transportation of the massive new components, using Cometto self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs). Over three meticulously planned night transports, the bridge sections—some weighing over 140 tonnes—were moved from the production site to the pier, navigating a 500-meter route that included tight 90-degree turns and challenging exits.
The bridge elements included a 120-tonne bearing, a 120-tonne counterweight cantilever standing 20 meters high, and a 147-tonne bridge section measuring 42 meters in length. The Cometto transporters’ electronic steering and compact design were crucial in overcoming these logistical challenges.
After the night transport, the components were loaded onto a barge for river transport and installation. Jinert also managed the final assembly, showcasing an end-to-end service that highlights modern engineering’s capability to tackle even the most demanding projects.
