Lugar Viaduct masonry repairs

Bell Access & Engineering Ltd worked closely with STORY Contracting and Network Rail to provide a solution for a challenging work site.

The aim was to carry out works throughout the structure, whilst minimising disruption to rail traffic and the local community. The environmental challenges included operating in a steep sided gorge, crossing rivers, public access foot paths, and keeping noise to a minimum while working close to local housing.

To minimise disrupting rail traffic, and to ease access throughout the structure, a cable system was installed, allowing cradle access to all parts of the viaduct. The initial program involved working in the hours of darkness to diamond core 220 no. 32 x 2000mm vertical cores to stabilise the structure’s parapet walls.

Further drilling on this project included:

• 112 no. 24x1200mm diamond core holes – for the installation of 16 x 1300mm anchors that form the cradle system
• 230 no. 32 x 1550mm vertical core holes – for the installation of M24 stainless all thread bar
• 192m of structural fractures cross stitched with 6mm stainless rebar