Similkameen Pipeline Suspension Bridge

The mining and milling operations of the project are outlined. The concept, location, and construction methods of the 950-ft pipeline suspension bridge were predicated by the extremely rugged site. The main components described are pipelines and supports, deck sections with walkways, cable systems, towers, anchorages, and foundations. Anchorage construction involved drilling and sealing of 4-in to 70-ft-deep holes in rock, grouting, post-tensioning, and testing of rock anchors. Erection of superstructure relied on a high line strung across the river. Construction followed the sequence of tower erection, cable stringing, transporting and connecting the 25-ft prefabricated deck sections, tensioning wind cables, and erecting pipelines. Considerations in the selection of cable geometry and size are presented. A special computer program was utilized for stress and deflection analysis and cable length calculation. Field observations indicated absence of wind induced oscillations.