Although the use of BIM technology in bridge engineering is currently less widespread than in building construction, recent years have seen several successful BIM applications in China. This article highlights two notable cases to showcase the outcomes of BIM implementation in bridge projects.
1. New Baishatuo Yangtze River Grand Bridge
Construction of this bridge began in January 2013 and was completed by August 2016, with a total investment of 2.4 billion RMB. The bridge spans 5,320.334 meters in total, featuring a main bridge length of 920.4 meters and a main span of 432 meters. The upper deck accommodates a four-lane passenger railway, while the lower deck supports a double-lane freight railway. It holds the distinction of being the world’s first six-lane railway steel truss cable-stayed bridge with the largest span and heaviest load, as well as the world’s first double-deck railway steel truss cable-stayed bridge.
BIM Application: This project was managed by China Railway Group and executed by China Railway Eryuan Qiaotou, with BIM technology playing a key role. The focus was on virtual construction by integrating construction data into a 3D model to create a 4D simulation. This enabled virtual walkthroughs of the construction process, especially for critical components such as bridge piles, tower supports, and steel beam erection. The approach ensured a more efficient and faster construction timeline, improved project quality, and accelerated progress.
Additionally, the team conducted simulated real estate exhibitions, including driving, walking, and running walkthroughs within the model. These immersive simulations helped identify design flaws early on, allowing for optimization that enhanced design quality and minimized waste caused by rework during later stages.
2. Ganjiang Second Bridge
Construction of the Ganjiang Second Bridge started in August 2013 and was completed in July 2018, with a total investment of 1.392 billion RMB. The bridge measures 1,750 meters in total length, including a 1,310-meter main section and a 440-meter connecting road. To better blend with the surrounding environment, the main tower features a unique “fish-shaped” design, characterized by complex structural forms and a combination of steel and concrete materials.
BIM Application: Designed by the Shanghai Municipal Engineering Institute, BIM technology was employed from the early stages to better visualize the design. The team created detailed 3D models and animated presentations to effectively communicate the design concept and provide richer information.
During the construction drawing phase, BIM-enabled clash detection was utilized to identify design conflicts and collision points. This allowed for thorough analysis and optimization, ultimately improving the overall design quality.
As BIM technology continues to advance and gain traction, its widespread adoption seems inevitable. The era where BIM is universally embraced may be closer than we think.
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