A new, quick-to-deploy temporary bridge made from lightweight cross-laminated timber and steel could revolutionise civil construction, saving time and money and eliminating the need for permits.
What’s more, it can be assembled in less than half a day!
Developed by Phoenix-based Sterling Site Access Solutions, TerraCross is a new bridge type that transports equipment, materials, and personnel across small rivers and ditches and provides an air-bridged crossing to protect buried gas or water pipes.
Available for rent or purchase, TerraCross is a fully engineered system made with structural steel that supports up to 100 tons over clear spans of 50 feet. It offers a safer, more durable, cost-effective alternative to traditional timber mat bridges and 100% steel or concrete-based bridges.
“All too often, project managers lose time and money working around ditches and waterways because constructing a crossing from scratch is not feasible and installing a permanent crossing is not part of the project plan,” according to Levi Frost, Sterling Solution’s Vice President of Construction Services. “TerraCross offers construction companies and project developers an easy, quick and cost-effective way to move the heavy equipment needed for construction, helping to save hundreds of thousands in costs from financing, labour, and equipment rental.”
And unlike timber mat bridges made from mixed woods of different grades and quality, the engineered TerraCross CLT bridge adds a backbone made from welded steel—a sturdier, better-performing load-bearing solution. Compared to 100% steel or concrete-based bridges, TerraCross bridges are lighter and can be moved into and out of place with a mid-size excavator. TerraCross bridges meet certified weight specifications, resist deterioration, and perform consistently and safely. Their durable qualities also mean they can be relocated and reused across different projects, providing a flexible solution for various construction needs.
Benefits of TerraCross Portable Bridges
- Easy Delivery: The TerraCross 28 and 40 ship using just one truck, while the TerraCross 56 and 56x ship using two trucks.
- Fast Deployment: TerraCross bridges are installed with traditional equipment commonly on-site and can be rapidly set up (as fast as half a day), helping save time and reducing cost.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for crossing waterways, ditches, underground utilities, and other construction site obstacles, TerraCross provides a flexible and reliable solution.
- Durable Solution: The engineered, welded steel construction ensures durability and longevity, offering long-term use and/or multiple reuse.
- Sustainable & Domestic: The CLT mats are produced in Illinois and Texas from sustainably grown and harvested wood from the Southeastern US. The steel backbone is sourced and manufactured in the US.
For more information about timber bridges, including options available to repair thousands of hardwood bridges, click here for Wood Central’s special feature from April.
