JASO Cranes: The Solution to Overcome Infrastructure Construction Challenges
5 / 12 / 2024
Our High Top cranes played a key role in the construction of the Contreras Viaduct, a project that earned national and international awards for its complex engineering and striking design.
Located between Valencia and Cuenca, the Contreras Viaduct is one of the most impressive feats of railway engineering in Spain. Designed by Javier Manterola and constructed in 2010 under the supervision of civil engineer Pablo Jiménez Guijarro from ADIF, this viaduct seamlessly blends aesthetics with functionality. Its 261-meter concrete main arch was the longest of its kind in Spain at the time. The project faced unique technical challenges due to the rugged terrain and the strict environmental requirements of its location, which lies within a future Biosphere Reserve.
To bring this ambitious project to life, J300 tower cranes from our High Top range were selected for their reliability and versatility. With a load capacity of 12 tons, a reach of 75 meters, and a tip load of 2,700 kg, the J300 cranes were perfectly suited to the project’s demands, addressing key challenges such as:
- Access and Foundation on Uneven Terrain
The viaduct was built over a reservoir in a rugged landscape. This required the installation of temporary foundations and auxiliary structures to support tower cranes and equipment, ensuring stability in a challenging environment.
- Construction Using Balanced Cantilever Methods
The 261-meter main arch was assembled using cantilevered segments secured with temporary stay systems. This required the tower cranes to operate under variable load conditions with exceptional precision to position each segment accurately.
- Environmental Conditions and Limited Space
Crane operations were constrained by the proximity to water and the need to minimize environmental impact. Maneuvers had to be performed with care to avoid damage to both existing structures and the surrounding ecosystem.
- Lifting Heavy Loads to Variable Heights
The cranes handled large, heavy components such as bridge segments and structural elements, often at significant heights. This demanded advanced load control systems and precise maneuvering to mitigate risks.
At JASO Tower Cranes, we take pride in our contribution to the Contreras Viaduct, a landmark in railway engineering that exemplifies technical excellence. This project underscores our ability to deliver innovative solutions and meticulous planning for infrastructure construction, leveraging our extensive experience and cutting-edge technology to overcome even the most complex engineering challenges.
