Design and Construction of the Tan De Bridge, Vietnam

In 1986 Vietnam adopted a reform policy, known as Doi Moi, to encourage growth and to promote a transition to a market orientated economy. Since implementing this policy growth in many parts of Vietnam has shown remarkable progress. Growth of the Red River Delta region has, however, been stifled due to transport constraints imposed by a deteriorating road and bridge system and by the existence of a large number of vehicular ferry crossings of the major rivers in the delta area. The National Highway No.10 (NH10) is one of the main highways in the delta region and connects the port of Haiphong with the south of the country. Feasibility studies have identified that the upgrading of the NH10 and the elimination of the vehicular ferry crossings was a priority so that the development potential of the region could be realised. The new Tan De Bridge carries the upgraded NH10 over the 450 metre wide Red (Hong) River. This paper describes the design and construction of Tan De Bridge, one of the longest concrete bridges in Vietnam, and describes how the bridge completion is now helping to boost development of the Red River Delta region. The river bridge is a five span in-situ concrete girder with main spans of 120 metres built by the free cantilever method. The approach viaducts have multiple spans of 40 metres formed from pre-cast Super-tee beams. The crossing was opened in February 2002 and indications are that the development potential of the region is now being realised.

• Introduction

• Project Background

• Achieving Sustained Development

• General Description

• Review of Alternatives

• Design Criteria

• The River Bridge

• Approach Viaducts

• Abutments and Approach Embankments

• Acknowledgments

• References