An alternative corrosion protection for wrought-iron bridges Available to Purchase

A major factor in the maintenance of metallic bridge structures involves cleaning and repainting to protect the fabric of the structure from the elements. It is known from experience in the current financial climate that as budgets are squeezed and industry resources are stretched, this cleaning and repainting cycle is often not maintained due to the cost of undertaking the works. This lack of maintenance results in a shortening of the structure’s lifespan and eventually larger costs as the bridge requires replacement before its anticipated design life. The three main factors which constrain maintenance painting are (a) accessibility of all parts of the structure, (b) the surrounding environment and (c) the complexity of the new paint protection system. When these factors are combined, the cost of carrying out that painting often becomes prohibitive. This investigation focused on the use of linseed oil as a method of protecting metallic structures, in particular those fabricated from wrought iron, which tend to be much older and of heritage or historical interest, yielding promising results of interest to the wider bridge community.