“The technical expertise that HCB Inc. provided was fantastic. They answered any questions we had and worked with us to develop some techniques for erecting them. Using HCBs reduced trucking substantially. We were able to move four beams per truckload. If we had used conventional beams, we would have had to use significantly more trucks. Located in a marine environment, Knickerbocker Bridge was a great application for HCBs because it will withstand corrosion better than steel or concrete.”
It’s no secret that U.S. bridges are in a critical state of decay. According to the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, one in nine U.S. bridges is rated as structurally deficient, and the average age of the nation’s bridges is currently 42 years. Across the country, Departments of Transportation are faced with shrinking budgets. While long-lasting structures are desired, funds are limited. HCB has the solution.
Ideal for accelerated bridge construction (ABC), the HCB system can allow for more bridge construction to be completed in the same amount of time as conventional methods. Crews can quickly install HCBs at the bridge site with only light-duty cranes or excavators. HCBs do not require complicated bracing and diaphragms as compared to typical steel-framed structures.
Combined with corrosion-resistance and a long lifespan of 100 or more years, HCBs can provide a better value on a first-cost basis. Since 2008, DOTs in the United States have realized the benefits of the proven HCB system for bridge construction.