Rotortugs performs precise manoeuvring of the new Botlek bridge deck transport
12 and 26 September 2014 two bridge deck parts for the new Botlek Bridge in Rottedam were transported by water. KOTUG was awarded to tow the transport of both bridgedeck parts for the construction of the new Botlek Bridge with its sophisticated Rotortugs and dedicated crew, the company said in its press release.
The bridge-decks are part of a construction of the new Botlek Bridge and are built in the dock of Mammoet in Schiedam. The floating and towing of the bridge-decks started from the construction dock. KOTUG’s Rotortugs RT Magic and RT Spirit towed both bridge-decks from Schiedam to the construction site in the river “Oude-Maas” near Rotterdam. The construction-site is located up-river the old “Botlek-bridge”.
Due to the transport wideness of over 57 meters and a bridge clearance of 58 meters (approximately 10 meters above water level) and 30cm margins at both sides of the old Botlek-bridge passage, very precise maneuvering was needed. With a track record of previous transports similar this project, both Rotortugs were coupled with the bow to the transport. Maximum manoeuvering and a minimum reaction delay were achieved while operating this way.
The manoeuvrability in confined areas has been significantly improved due to the patented Rotortug concept, which benefits the safety of the bridge sections and all surrounding objects. The design of the Rotortug shows that the power can be delivered by rotating the thrusters rather than the tug itself, which saves space and manoeuvring time. A real advantage for a narrow lock or bridge passage and assisting in confined areas.
About the New Botlek Bridge
The current Botlek Bridge will be replaced by a new lifting bridge across the Oude Maas, eliminating a major shipping bottleneck in the region. The new Botlek Bridge features two bridge passages – each around 90 metres wide – and will rise some 14 metres above water level. Its openings are twice as high as those of the current bridge, meaning that it can allow larger vessels to pass under it without impeding road traffic. In addition, its two sections will allow ships coming from opposite directions to pass simultaneously. When completed, the new Botlek Bridge, which lifts to a maximum height of 45 metres, will be one of the largest moveable bridges in the world.