Introduction:

In Porta Westfalica, Germany, Becker Bau is undertaking a complex construction project to replace an aging railway bridge while keeping the railway fully operational. This challenging project requires innovative digital monitoring solutions to ensure safety and efficiency.

Challenge:

Becker Bau faces the significant challenge of maintaining railway operations throughout the rail construction period. They have constructed an auxiliary bridge to facilitate the demolition of the old bridge abutments and the building of the new bridge beneath it. In February 2023, the auxiliary bridge will be removed, and the new steel superstructure will be installed. Ensuring the safety of passing trains during this time demands precise and reliable monitoring.

Solution:

Structural monitoring is crucial for maintaining safety, stability, and structural health, particularly when construction affects an operational railway. Railmonitor, having previously assisted Becker Bau with monitoring critical infrastructure, was again called upon to provide a solution for this project.

The TrackBed³⁶⁰ solution monitors the sleepers and the auxiliary bridge itself, covering two tracks divided into four areas. Sensors are installed on the track bed and parts of the bridge to monitor movements where the track and bridge meet. This is vital because the firmer bridge structure can cause displacements, posing a threat to stability. Additionally, laser sensors monitor the auxiliary bridge, detecting any raising, lowering, or lateral movements.

All gathered data is automatically sent to Railmonitor’s software platform, the Digital Service Platform, which provides advanced insights and features like the Foresight Lens that predicts railway behavior over a 7-day period. Furthermore, instant alarm notifications are sent if preset thresholds are exceeded, ensuring prompt responses to potential issues.

Results:

The TrackBed³⁶⁰ solution monitoring the structural health enabled Becker Bau to manage risks effectively and minimize costs. The precise digital monitoring allows for real-time data analysis and insights, ensuring the project stays on track for timely and budget-friendly completion.

Benefits:

• Enhanced Safety: Continuous monitoring ensures the safety of passing trains during construction.
• Cost Efficiency: Early detection of potential issues helps avoid costly delays and repairs.
• Timely Completion: Real-time data and predictive analytics keep the project on schedule.
• Predictive insights: Foresight Lens that predicts railway behavior over a 7-day period

About Becker Bau:

Becker Bau is a renowned German contractor specializing in complex construction projects, including infrastructure and railway systems. Their commitment to safety, quality, and innovation has made them a trusted name in the industry.

Railmonitor has previously assisted Becker Bau in monitoring critical infrastructure in connection with a construction project. When a need for structural monitoring was identified for this project, Becker Bau reached out to Railmonitor again. Read the case here.