Gänsebach Viaduct

As part of the new high-speed railway route Erfurt - Leipzig/Halle, the delicate bridge spans across the elongated, shallow valley. The double T-section pre-stressed concrete superstructure is sectioned into ten joint- and bearing-less integral frames. The horizontal (transversal) load transfer is achieved through restraints at the abutments and reinforced concrete piers along the transition pier axes between two sections. The breaking loads are transferred to the foundations through stiffening elements consisting of triangular walls, arranged at the center of each five-span frame. The bridge allows for continuous rails without rail expansion joints. The reduced structural height due to the minimal column spacing as well as the slender individual columns result in a light-weight and elegant structure. The bridge distinguishes itself through its robust and reduced structure as well as its minimal maintenance requirements.