World's Highest Bridge Undergoes Load Test, Nearing Completion

A significant load-bearing capacity test was conducted on the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in Guizhou province. A fleet of 96 trucks, collectively weighing 3,360 metric tons, traversed the bridge, which is currently under construction. This simulated traffic congestion was the final structural performance test, a critical step before the bridge's scheduled opening in September.

The load test, a thorough examination of the bridge's structural integrity, was successfully completed after five days of meticulous inspections. According to Han Hongju, deputy general manager and chief engineer of the construction company, initial data analysis indicated normal responses across all measured indicators.

The bridge, spanning 2,890 meters with a main span of 1,420 meters, towers 625 meters above the Beipan River. Upon its opening, it will be recognized as the world's highest bridge and the longest bridge span in mountainous terrain.

The construction team used a creative analogy to describe the project. They envisioned two "sky-high trees" separated by 1,420 meters, connected by a giant "clothesline" that is 2,378 meters long and nearly 1 meter thick. From this "clothesline," 91 pairs of "hangers" are suspended, supporting a large "clothes-drying platform" – the bridge deck.

The "sky-high tree" on the Liuzhi side stands 262 meters tall, while the one on the Anlong side reaches 204 meters. "Saddles" are installed atop each "tree" to ensure the "clothesline" functions smoothly. In technical terms, the "clothesline" represents the main cable, the "hangers" are the suspenders, the "sky-high trees" are the main towers, the "saddles" are the cable saddles, and the "clothes-drying platform" is the main girder.

The test was designed to evaluate the bridge's intended vehicle load capacity. Both dynamic and static assessments were performed to thoroughly evaluate the performance of the four major systems. The static load test was rescheduled due to weather conditions, ultimately taking place over several days.

The testing involved three weight classes of trucks, with the maximum load reaching 3,360 tons. This approach simulated varying traffic volumes and load distributions. Construction of the bridge commenced in January 2022, and it is anticipated to open to traffic in late September.

As a key component of the Liuzhi-Anlong Expressway, the bridge will significantly reduce travel time between the two sides of the canyon. It is also expected to boost regional tourism by connecting various attractions, potentially creating a world-class tourism destination. The bridge itself is considered a major attraction. Modern facilities and experience-based activities, such as bungee jumping and paragliding, are planned to be integrated into the bridge structure.