Cable-stayed bridges are the most cost-effective solution for spans and cantilevers measuring between 100 and 500 metres. Stay cables are used to transfer structural load or to hold a structure without using piers or columns.
Stay cables can also be applied to tie-downs, bow strings, extradosed bridges, or hangers in suspension bridges.
They are safe and durable structures that can be inspected (or have its cables replaced) with minimum impact on daily operations.
Lastly, cable-stayed bridges, being light and airy, are the perfect solution for bridge owners who want to build an iconic and awe-inspiring structure!
Stay cables are subjected to high tensile forces and stress variations – making them a very complex assemblage. The VSL stay cable system is the result of 40 years of constant R&D and meticulous rounds of improvements on the components, including:
- tensile elements that carry the load;
- anchor component that allow for load transfer to the structure;
- cable encapsulation to provide protection against environmental factors;
- extra protection against vandalism, fire, blast;
- devices for control of vibration and deviation loads.
VSL masters both the system and the project management, from design to project execution – and even includes maintenance and repairs.
VSL has designed and installed stay cable systems on over 270 bridges worldwide – many of which are iconic references and world-firsts.