Strengthening - Bridges, Viaducts and Footbridges
When bridges need more than maintenance
Many bridges in service today were built decades ago, to standards and traffic loads that have since evolved. Heavier vehicles, new regulations, material aging or even changes of use may require structural capacity to be increased.
That’s where strengthening comes in. VSL delivers tailored strengthening solutions that restore or enhance a structure’s load-bearing capacity, without full replacement. Our approach minimizes intervention, maximizes value, and ensures durability.
Our strengthening solutions
VSL’s core strengthening method applies controlled prestressing forces using external post-tensioning. This proven technique has been deployed in thousands of projects worldwide to boost capacity and extend bridge life.
- Can be applied without removing traffic or superimposed dead loads
- Increases load-bearing capacity and limits deflection
- Reduces cracking and improves fatigue resistance
- Fully reversible and adjustable
Compatible with decks, girders, piers and more
Passive strengthening improves load capacity without applying active forces. It typically involves adding structural material or modifying how loads are distributed, often in combination with active methods for maximum efficiency.
- Section enlargement (concrete or steel jacketing)
- Load path reconfiguration
- UHPFRC overlays
- Composite action between new and existing members
- Ideal when moderate capacity increase is needed and where additional loads are only applied after strengthening
FRP materials offer lightweight, high-strength solutions for surface or embedded reinforcement. We use carbon, aramid or glass fibers depending on design requirements.
- Ideal for beams, slabs, piers and columns
- Easy to apply in confined or difficult access zones
- Non-corrodible and highly resistant to environmental factors
- Quick installation and minimal weight added
- Underpinning with micropiles or jet grouting
- Foundation enlargement
- Foundation confinement or jacketing incl. management of Alkali-Aggregate-Reaction (AAR)
- Load transfer using jacking or load redistribution
- Energy dissipation with viscous, elastomeric or friction dampers
- Base isolation systems
- Strengthening of joints and bearings
- Ductility enhancement and reinforcement detailing
- Anchoring and supplemental post-tensioning
Why choose VSL’s strengthening solutions?
Integrated design and execution
We can handle assessment, design, installation, and monitoring, all in-house.Custom-engineered solutions
We adapt to your structure, loads, constraints, and goals, no one-size-fits-all.Proven VSL Technologies
We rely on trusted, in-house systems, from VSL post-tensioning to high-performance dampers, all tested in real-world conditions.Minimal disruption
We work around traffic, service continuity, and site-specific risks.
FAQs about Bridge Strengthening
Strengthening is required when the structure remains sound but no longer meets current or future loading, usage, or safety standards. This often occurs due to heavier traffic, new design codes, or changes in function.
VSL applies a full range of solutions, including external post-tensioning, concrete or steel jacketing, FRP reinforcement, UHPFRC overlays, and seismic upgrades — all designed to enhance load capacity and extend bridge service life.
Yes. Most VSL strengthening systems, including external post-tensioning, can be installed without removing live loads or closing traffic, thanks to our temporary works and safety-focused execution methods.
All our solutions are engineered for lifecycle performance, using corrosion-resistant materials, adjustable systems, and detailed monitoring to ensure that strengthened structures remain safe and reliable for decades.