Feasibility study of the life extension of a 100-year old timber truss rail bridge over the Grey River, New Zealand

TL;DRAbstract

The existing Grey River Rail Bridge, built in the late 1800’s, crosses the Grey River in Greymouth, New Zealand. The bridge, also known as the Cobden Bridge, is approximately 300 meters long and is made up of 80ft and 40ft timber truss spans and a small number of timber spans. Planning for substantial increase in coal exports has prompted both Solid Energy International and Tranz Rail to focus on the ability of the existing Cobden Bridge to carry the increased traffic volumes as well as increased axle loads. The results of the feasibility study showed that the bridge had reached the point where it would not be cost-effective to extend its life to carry the projected increased coal tonnages. Recommendations have been accepted by Solid Energy International and Tranz Rail Ltd. to strengthen the existing bridge in order to extend the life of the bridge for a limited period of time, while a replacement bridge is designed and constructed. The paper describes the history of the bridge, the me

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