The southern bridge deck of the Schiphol Bridge on the A9 is almost ready for transport. Last week, the main pivot shafts were precisely mounted at the Hollandia site, a remarkable technical process where temperature plays a crucial role.
At the same temperature, the hole is smaller than the shaft. Therefore, the shafts are submerged in a dry ice bath at approximately -60 degrees Celsius for several days. This extreme cold causes the steel to temporarily shrink by a few tenths of a millimetre, allowing the shaft to fit easily into the designated hole. Once the shafts are in position, ambient heat causes the steel to expand again, firmly locking the shafts in place. Combined with a pre-tensioned connection, this process ensures an exceptionally strong and durable joint.
Next week, the bridge will be further prepared for transport to its final destination on the A9.
Hollandia Infra is constructing the new bridge sections for the Schiphol Bridge on the A9BAHO on behalf of VeenIX. Under commission from Rijkswaterstaat, VeenIX is widening the A9 between the Badhoevedorp and Holendrecht interchanges. Near Amstelveen, the A9 will be constructed below ground level.
