Pier construction HS2

HS2 reveal innovative approach for the construction of the Thame Valley Viaduct

HS2 has revealed the first of 68 giant piers that will support the high speed rail project first entirely off-site manufactured modular viaduct. In an innovative construction process, every major part of 880m long Thame Valley Viaduct will be manufactured in a factory before being assembled on-site.

It is expected to cut the carbon footprint by around a third.

The huge 97 tonne beams – and 42 supporting piers will be manufactured on the Isle of Grain alongside segments of HS2’s London tunnels.

The process of constructing off-site has been a success in recent high-speed rail projects in Spain and the HS2 team has adopted a similar plan with two 25m long hollow beams per span. This process cuts the amount of carbon-intensive concrete and steel, which in turn simplifies work on site.

Welcoming the start of production, Tomas Garcia, HS2 Ltd’s Head of Civil Structures said:

 “HS2 will offer zero carbon journeys from day one, providing a cleaner, greener way to travel and help the fight against climate change.

"But we’re also serious about cutting embedded carbon in construction, reducing cost and programme and improving safety, performance and durability. Thame Valley is a great example of how our contractors are embracing the latest engineering techniques to do just that.”

Once completed, the viaduct will cross the flood plain of the River Thame, carrying HS2 Trains at speeds of up to 360km/h between London, Birmingham and the North. 

As well as cutting embedded carbon in terms of materials, the approach applied will require less lorries to deliver material to site, simplifying construction and cutting waste.

Want to know more about the opportunities to become a key supplier to the UK rail industry? Attend TransCityRail and access an exclusive marketplace of buyers from Network Rail, HS2, Train Operators, Major Contractors, and all other tiers of the supply chain. For more information and to secure your place click here.  

RTM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023

RTM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023

Putting Passengers First

This issue highlights the latest topics within the rail industry, from decarbonising the Midlands, improving rail safety, meeting the future priorities of Scotland's Railway & more!                                                      

Videos...

View all videos
TransCityRail Banner

TransCityRail

South \ 28 09 23
North \ 09 11 23
Mids \ 29 02 24

TransCityRail is a series of regional, interactive and insightful events across the country bringing together leaders, collaborators, problem solvers and innovators in a creative and invigorating way.
 

This series of events supports and informs the whole of the rail industry and connects suppliers with buyers, specifiers, leaders and decision-makers looking to procure a wide variety of innovative products and services for their region.

09/11/23

TransCityRail North

The North of England is home to almost a quarter of the UK’s entire population, so it’s no surprise that continued investment across the regions railway is a priority for Transport for the North, Network Rail, HS2, Operators and Major Contractors.

For over a decade the TransCityRail NORTH conference, exhibition and networking dinner has been uniting the leaders of industry responsible for building shaping and delivering rail infrastructure investment across the region for a day of collaboration, conversation and engagement.

This year we have another star studied line-up of keynote speakers and panel discussions on strategic rail investment for the region, Transpennine Route Upgrade and Northern Powerhouse Rail revealing £billions in opportunity for the supply chain.

More articles...

View all