New Pier for the Bridge-Aqueduct PSA 101 over AP-68 Highway in Bilbao

Load Transfer and Demolition of Original Pier

Abstract

The new pier over the AP-68 highway consists of a composite structure formed by a box section of variable width and a height of 8.50 metres, embedded in a 5.50 metre-high post-tensioned concrete pedestal. The geometry of the structure, with an inverted L-shape, is conditioned by the admissible clearance and the location of the support axis. The final eccentricity between the loading point and the lower connection with the concrete pedestal is 7.50 metres, which is a milestone in structural engineering. This article describes in detail both the characteristics of this structure and the innovative construction and load transfer process carried out.