Internal View of Oberkassel Bridge
In the heart of Düsseldorf, Germany, three iconic bridges – the Rhine Bridge, Oberkassel Bridge, and the approach bridge – play a significant role in connecting the city's left and right banks. These bridges, each with their unique history and design, are essential components of the city's infrastructure.
The Oberkassel Bridge, built between 1969 and 1976, replaced an earlier bridge that was shifted by 47.50 meters to avoid disrupting traffic during construction. The Rhine Bridge, a diagonal cable-stayed bridge, boasts a total length of 614.72 meters and a largest span of 257.75 meters. The approach bridge on the left bank of the Rhine is approximately 25 meters long and was constructed as a prestressed concrete structure.
These engineering structures are subject to regular inspections to ensure their safety and longevity. Generally, they undergo a combination of visual checks, non-destructive testing, and structural health monitoring. Annual or biannual inspections are common, with more detailed inspections every 5 to 6 years, and special inspections following extreme events.
During these inspections, all apparent defects or damages are noted, and if questionable findings are discovered, the scope of the inspection expands to cover a main inspection. The simple inspection, a comparative inspection conducted three years after a main inspection, also covers anchorages of components like touch protection, noise protection walls, and lines.
Routine maintenance includes cleaning drainage systems, repairing joints and expansion bearings, painting to prevent corrosion, and timely repair of concrete spalling or fatigue cracks. Significant findings, such as corrosion, fatigue cracks in steel elements, wear of bearings, and concrete degradation, are documented in detailed engineering reports held by local or federal transport authorities.
However, specific information about the regular inspection and maintenance of these Düsseldorf bridges was not readily available in the current search results. For accurate, bridge-specific information, it is recommended to consult official sources such as the Düsseldorf city infrastructure office, the German Federal Highway Research Institute, or the regional transport authority. These bodies manage inspection protocols and maintain records of structural health and findings.
Together, these bridges have a structural area of approximately 21,150 square meters, contributing significantly to the city's connectivity and charm. Despite their importance, their maintenance and inspection protocols remain an area of interest for those seeking a deeper understanding of these engineering marvels.
The Oberkassel Bridge, built utilizing advanced construction technology, was replaced in the late 60s and early 70s, demonstrating the evolution of bridge construction over time. The Rhine Bridge, an engineering feat, incorporates state-of-the-art cable-stayed technology, showcasing the progress of technology in bridge design.
