Technical bridge systems renovated

Date

19 January 2021

Expertise

Over a period of three months, Strukton Systems specialists completely renovated the bridge’s electrical and hydraulic systems. After 25 years, these systems had become obsolete and had to be replaced to prevent disruptions in the future.

You can’t see anything on the outside. The Prinslandsebrug – a bridge across the Dintel River in the Province of Noord-Brabant in the Netherlands – looks exactly the same as it did before. And it still opens up for passing ships. What you don’t see are the underlying technical systems, which were completely renewed. The bridge’s hydraulic drive, control systems, gate systems, road and shipping traffic signals, underpass lights and audio/video – everything was replaced and adjusted to comply with current requirements and the state of the art technology. Furthermore, a new control system was implemented to allow the bridge to be operated remotely from the Sasdijk lock. In the past, the bridge was operated from the central control station at the Roode Vaart canal.

It took approximately eight months to complete the job, from design to handover in December 2020. During the work, a single lane was always available for road traffic. This way traffic from both directions was able to alternately drive past the work with the help of traffic controllers, and inconvenience to the local community was kept to a minimum.

Frequently asked questions

Find answers to frequently asked questions here.

How can ageing concrete bridges be strengthened sustainably without full replacement?

Ageing bridges can be reinforced using composite strengthening systems such as SUREbridge, which places a lightweight FRP composite panel onto the existing concrete deck. This method increases load‑bearing capacity, extends service life by up to 50 years, shortens construction time and avoids demolition, lowering CO₂ emissions by around 50%.

What circular and low‑impact materials are used in modern bridge and viaduct construction?

Current sustainable bridge‑building practices include the use of high‑strength concrete, recycled and circular structural beams, and composite panels that minimise the need for new raw materials. Circular approaches — such as reusing beams and strengthening existing structures instead of replacing them — significantly reduce waste, transport movements and environmental footprint. SUREbridge, for example, limits the use of primary materials and enables lightweight installation with minimal environmental impact.

What innovative techniques reduce disruption during bridge renovation or widening?

Techniques like prefabricated composite deck overlays, fast‑curing strengthening systems and modular construction minimise on‑site work and reduce noise, traffic disruption and construction time. SUREbridge, for instance, avoids demolition and can be installed in just a few weeks, reducing inconvenience to road users and nearby residents.

What control systems are required for safe and reliable operation of movable bridges?

Movable bridges rely on advanced bridge‑control and monitoring systems that manage mechanical movements, ensure safety interlocks, support remote operation and monitor real‑time performance. Modern systems integrate sensors, automation and fail‑safe logic to guarantee safe bridge openings while coordinating with traffic, vessels and other infrastructure elements. Many engineering firms specialising in rail and civil infrastructure provide expertise in designing, upgrading and maintaining such systems.

What are key considerations in designing and maintaining railway bridges?

Railway bridges must withstand heavy axle loads, dynamic vibrations and increasing train frequencies. Important considerations include structural stiffness, fatigue resistance, long‑term durability and compatibility with electrification systems. With many European railway bridges exceeding 50–100 years of age, strengthening methods such as composite overlays, high‑strength materials and smart monitoring systems are increasingly used to extend lifespan and ensure safe operations.