Link Bridge – Composite Steel Box Girder

Client sector: Transport & Pedestrian Infrastructure  |  Location: UAE  |  Structure: Composite steel box girder bridge

ESG delivered the full structural engineering design for a link bridge in the UAE. The bridge sits beside a landmark retail destination in a busy urban setting. It connects two high-traffic areas with a short, efficient span arrangement. The brief called for a slender structure that could be built quickly with minimal disruption.

Structural Concept

The bridge uses two steel box girders with a composite concrete top slab. Composite action lets the steel and concrete work together efficiently. This keeps the deck shallow while carrying the design loads. The structure spans two bays for a total length of about 85 metres. A box girder form was chosen for its torsional stiffness and clean appearance.

Construction Approach

Speed and minimal disruption shaped the construction method. The steel box girders were erected in place over four nights. Night working kept the surrounding area open during the day. Careful sequencing reduced risk during lifting and placement. ESG’s design supported this fast, low-impact erection plan.

Scope of Work

• Complete structural engineering services for the bridge.
• Structural modelling, analysis, and calculation reports.
• Preparation of all detailed structural design drawings.
• Engineering support for the staged erection sequence.

Design Considerations

Steel bridges must resist fatigue from repeated loading. The box girders were detailed to manage these effects. The composite slab adds stiffness and spreads load. Durable detailing protects the steel against the environment. These choices reduce long-term maintenance for the owner.

Project Outcomes

• A slender composite deck that met the architectural intent.
• An erection plan that limited disruption to the surrounding area.
• A robust, low-maintenance structure designed for heavy footfall.
• A short, efficient span layout that suited the urban setting.

This link bridge shows how composite steel design can deliver both speed and elegance. Early structural input kept the build fast and low-risk. ESG continues to support transport and pedestrian infrastructure projects across the region.