Trains have officially commenced operations on the world’s first heavy rail bridge constructed using carbon hangers.
- This landmark development marks the revival of the Berlin-Königsberg-Eydtkuhnen rail line across the Oder River.
- The bridge, developed by Schlaich Bergermann Partner (SBP), significantly reduces weight by utilising lightweight carbon cables.
- This innovative design emerged from an international competition won by Schüßler-Plan and Knight Architects.
- The new infrastructure aims to increase train capacity and foster sustainable transport between Poland and Germany.
The world’s first heavy rail bridge to use carbon hangers has opened, allowing trains to cross the Oder River at the Poland-Germany border. The bridge replaces a derelict structure and is an essential component of the Berlin-Königsberg-Eydtkuhnen rail line. Developed by structural engineering specialists Schlaich Bergermann Partner (SBP), this bridge integrates a unique lightweight and material-saving hanger net utilising carbon tensile elements.
The pioneering design concept for the Küstrin-Kietz Rail Crossing originated from a two-stage international design competition. Schüßler-Plan and Knight Architects emerged victorious in this competition, which included two bridge structures. Among them, the 176m Odervorflut bridge crosses a flood relief canal near the main crossing, exhibiting similar architectural characteristics.
A critical part of the overall project was the 1,250m renewal of the track system. SBP’s structural design for the network arch bridge, based on the competition-winning concept, replaced the initially proposed flat bar steel hangers with 50mm diameter carbon cables. This adjustment substantially lowered the structural weight and decreased the amount of steel and concrete required.
Standing as the first of its kind, this rail bridge utilises high-performance carbon for significant load-bearing elements. Establishing the technical foundation for this innovative solution required comprehensive expert evaluation, receiving approval through collaborative efforts with specialists, affirming a strong commitment to technical progress.
SBP board member Andreas Keil stated, “We are proud that we were able to convince the client of our alternative technical solution of a network arch with carbon hangers.” The structure’s prominence is further highlighted by its position above the border demarcation, acting as a symbolic landmark that strengthens the connection between Poland and Germany.
The bridge promises enhanced line capacity and reduced travel times, allowing permissible speeds of up to 120km/h. This development is poised to rejuvenate regional and international rail travel, supporting a shift towards more sustainable transport options. Long-term benefits include potentially reduced road traffic and contributing to broader mobility trends.
André Hörmeyer of Schüßler-Plan Ingenieurgesellschaft and Lorenz Haspel of SBP praised the project’s completion and the collaborative efforts that were instrumental throughout the process. Knight Architects’ Bart Halaczek highlighted the vital role of the new bridge in improving transport links between the neighbouring countries and lauded the elegance and innovation encapsulated in the design.
The opening of the Oder rail bridge is a testament to advancing engineering innovation, aiding in the revitalisation of crucial rail links.
