Today, aluminium is used primarily in shorter and smaller bridges where weight and / or durability are crucial. For medium-sized bridges, the use of aluminium decks supported by concrete or steel elements has been built. However, to unleash the potential for the use of aluminum also for larger and longer bridges, this innovation project aims to increase confidence in aluminium solutions by documenting feasibility, capacity, stability, and cost-effectiveness.
To achieve the objective, experimental tests, new calculation methods and validation of new calculation methods on relevant design solutions will be performed. An advanced design process for design of global stability that includes testing, machine learning and other efficiency-enhancing methods will be developed. Structural design details in aluminium will be explored. Furthermore, production methods and automation will be investigated to increase cost efficiency.
At SINTEF, we will carry out a large test program to investigate the fatigue properties of relevant aluminium alloys. Furthermore, we will assist in developing design solutions for the aluminium bridges of the future.
Hydro Aluminium is the project owner, while the project is led by Dr. Tech. Olav Olsen. Furthermore, Leirvik, Hydal Aluminium Profiles, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration and DNV are partners in the project, while NTNU and SINTEF are research partners. The project is supported by the Research Council of Norway through the program for user-driven innovation (BIA) with project number 314063.
