Changtai Bridge in China Sets Multiple World Records

The Changtai Bridge, recently completed in Jiangsu Province, China, has officially become the world's longest cable-stayed bridge, spanning an impressive length of 10.3 kilometers. This architectural marvel connects the cities of Changzhou and Taizhou across the mighty Yangtze River, significantly reducing travel time between the two locations from 80 minutes to just 20 minutes.

The bridge's design features a unique dual-level structure that accommodates both road and railway traffic. The upper level is dedicated to vehicular traffic, while the lower level is reserved for high-speed trains, which can operate at speeds up to 200 kilometers per hour. This innovative arrangement marks the Changtai Bridge as the world's longest combined road and rail steel arch bridge.

In addition to its length, the bridge boasts remarkable vertical elements. The towers supporting the bridge rise to 350 meters, equivalent to the height of a 120-story building, with a main span measuring 1,208 meters. The construction of this bridge involved overcoming significant engineering challenges, particularly due to the strong currents of the Yangtze River. Engineers had to enhance the foundations to ensure stability, using a combination of steel and concrete to create durable and flexible structures capable of withstanding environmental changes.

To facilitate the construction, a sophisticated tower crane with a lifting capacity of 10,000 ton-meters was developed, allowing for the precise placement of massive steel-concrete composite pylons. Additionally, one of the largest deck cranes in the world was employed to ensure that heavy components could be positioned with millimeter accuracy.

The Changtai Bridge not only serves as a critical transportation link but is also anticipated to stimulate economic growth in the Yangtze Delta region. By significantly shortening travel times, it is expected to enhance connectivity and support local commerce.

As the first bridge over the Yangtze to integrate a highway, a conventional road, and an intercity rail line, the Changtai Bridge stands as a testament to modern engineering and China's commitment to infrastructure development.