Bridge Factory Innovations

A study was initiated in 1989 to develop new steel fabrication facilities. A production line with automated laser cutting and material handling equipment and a box girder panel manufacturing line, including pre-fitting, welding, reforming and drilling equipment was installed in 1991. This facility modernisation programme has followed the installation in 1992 of a programme to establish a comprehensive system for bridge manufacture that includes the entire process of production control, materials ordering, pre-fitting, assembly, welding, painting and shipment. These efforts mark a major step towards new production methods for the future.