ShiZiYang Bridge – Large diameter main cables

The ShiZiYang suspension bridge in the GuangDong province in China will when constructed have a world record main span of 2180 m and carry an impressive 2 x 8 lanes of traffic on the two levels truss girder.Due to its size, ShiZiYang bridge requires extensive main cable area with diameter nearly 1.5 m representing the largest main cable ever constructed. An option of dual main cables can be considered with smaller main cables including simpler compaction. However the construction time is extended, all adjacent structures such as saddles, anchorages and cable clamps become significantly more complex and the separate cables behave as independent members.The paper discusses the main key challenges regarding design and construction of large main cables with diameter above 1m and alternatively dual main cables.