Load Testing
11 March 2025
Ever wondered how a Suspension or Swing Bridge is found to be safe for the public?
Here's a look at the process we follow at Frame Group to ensure that our suspension and swing bridges undergo rigorous safety measures before being opened to the public.
Next time you cross one of our bridges, we hope this gives you even more confidence in its safety!
Frame Group also works closely with our clients to regularly assess the safety of existing structures, ensuring they are fit for public use.
Load testing involves:
Setting up: Using a 2000L bladder and placing it in the middle of the deck of the newly completed bridge. As part of the setup Engineers inspect and collect important data and measurements.
Filling the bladder with water pumped from a nearby stream, river or Lake. In some remote locations water is flown in by helicopter. The filling of the bladder replicates the weight of multiple people standing on the bridge.
During the filling process Engineers monitor the bridge and watch closely for other signs of unwanted structural behaviour.
Once the Engineers have fully loaded the bladder with a pre-determined amount of water, the Engineer compares the original set-up data and measurements with the new fully loaded bridge data.
Finally, pulling the release valve (remotely) and enjoy the waterfall.
