TEKLA 3D Modelling Technology for Bridge Construction

Indispensable role is played by TEKLA 3D modelling technology in construction of iconic Bridge Structures, said Mr Asitesh Mondal, Area Sales Manager (Delhi) Tekla India.

We all marvel at the beauty of their architectural & structural complexity, uniqueness of their shape and life stature they assume in public space. Modern structures built all over the world have not only become icons of vision of their owners but also case studies of achievement for the construction industry. They can be business towers, sports stadiums, airport terminals, cultural centres and many such buildings. However, the unique shape and size that architects visualize for these icons make them a big challenge for the structural engineers, project managers and contractors. Modeling, detailing and creating accurate drawings for the entire structure are some of the biggest challenges faced before the actual construction begins. Adopting the right 3D modelling technology has played a crucial role in not only addressing structural problems but also made it easier for downstream players in bringing these iconic projects to life. This article covers the unique challenges faced during designing of certain popular structures both abroad and at home and how Tekla's technology helped engineers to do the needful.

WSP Finland are the Bridge designing Consultant for the Chenab Rail Bridge project. Mr. Pekka Pulkkinen Head of the WSP Finland bridge unit says, "It always pays to design steel by modelling." Tekla Structures 3D modeling software was used by WSP to get the job done. Advanced design methods have brought efficiency and optimization into this pioneering project. Tekla Structures includes an extensive range of connections, and its automated clash checking efficiently exposes conflicts before they're too late to correct.


Total length/ Arch span: 1315m/469m
Height above Chenab river: 359m
Location: Kauri, Jammu & Kashmir
Use: Chenab Railway bridge is a part of the Jammu-Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla railway route
Contractor: Afcons Infrastructure
Design & Consulting: WSP Group, Finland

The Chenab Bridge will be nearly 1,315 metre with an approach bridge which is 530 metres long and an arch bridge which is 785 metres long. A 467 metre long steel arch (one of the longest in the world) supports the arch deck. When completed, this will be the tallest rail bridge in the world.

The Chenab bridge is extremely challenging logistically, as the terrain in India is rough and the roads are poor. Tekla Structures has made it possible to organize the plate material for better logistics. The software also helps in getting the plans accepted by local authorities: an accurate, visualized 3D model is much easier to present than 2D drawings. Moreover, there is a need for special features, such as temperature correction (steel +20ºC, concrete 0ºC). For reinforced concrete, the braces, elements, and block constructions are easy to execute in Tekla Structures. Due to its dimensional accuracy and steady coordinates one can always be sure that the result is what was expected.

The strength of Tekla software was well proven when we found the best of our technology in such critical challenging project like Chenab bridge, said Mr Asitesh Mondal, Area Sales Manager (Delhi), Tekla India.

Signature Bridge, Wazirabad-An icon of modern Bridges in India

After being put on the backburner for some time, the Signature Bridge will come up over Yamuna river. Now a Chinese company, Jiangsu Steel Structure, a sub–contractor of Gammon–Construtora-Tensacciai JV, has been given the task of fabricating the 15,000 tonne steel pylon and deck girders. The pylon will be brought to India in pieces and the firm will be responsible for assembling and erection the pylon and deck at site.


Total length/Main span: 675m/251m
Main tower/pylon height: 165m
Deck surface: 20,800 m²
Location: Delhi
Use: Wazirabad cable stayed Signature Bridge will connect NH-1 on the western bank of Yamuna to Wazirabad Road on its eastern bank.
Contractor: Gammon Construtora-Tensacciai JV
Sub Contractor: Jiangsu Steel Structure


Special grade steel, also sourced from China, will be used to construct the pylon. The main pillar will have 18 cables on the western side and four back-stay cables on the eastern side. A beacon will be placed at the top of the pylon and will be visible to 50% of Delhiites at night. The main pylon of the bridge boasts a unique bowshaped, inclined design that will leave a lasting impression. The bridge will connect NH-1 on the western bank of the Yamuna to Wazirabad Road on its eastern bank. The bridge will have two subways, footpaths and cycle track. For the first time, a bridge in India will have a comprehensive system to monitor all parameters that can affect the bridge.

The first phase of the Signature Bridge in its new avatar is expected to be opened by the end of this year, as per the information shared by Delhi chief minister.

The 3D model of the bridge and detailing of each steel structure was done using Tekla Structure technology and Tekla India technical team constantly work with different project players to make this happen, said Mr Asitesh.

"One of the most challenging parts was modeling the plates on the bridge's 2-plane inclined pylon. Tekla Structures technology not only enabled engineers to accurately prepare 3D model of this structure having complex geometry but also generate reports for material take-off, assembly dimensions and Centre of Gravity that were required for lifting and transportation," added Mr Asitesh.

When completed, the superstructure will be nearly 175 meters tall, bow-shaped pylon with cables. It will have two subways, footpaths and cycle tracks, besides the bridge. There will be space for a dual, four-lane carriageway (14 m each) with a 1.2-metre-wide central verge, space for anchoring cables, maintenance walkway and crash barriers on either side of the central verge. The main span will be 251 m and the approach span on either side will be of 36 m. There will also be a provision for cloverleaves to cater to increased traffic volumes in future.