Innovation Award for Hot Dip Galvanized Bridge System

Modular steel bridge

Modular steel bridge systems are designed to meet some of the highest demands for durability, structural performance and long-term resilience. Bridges are often regarded as monuments, demonstrating the scale of what engineering and construction can achieve. In some cases, their surviving remains even provide valuable insights into past civilisations.

The modular steel bridge system developed by Bridge Builder GmbH meets these demands for durability and resilience in a considerably more pragmatic and less monumental form than many a Roman structure.

Engineering Simplicity into Modular Steel Bridges

The system enables tailor-made bridge solutions for temporary applications and, thanks to structural design in accordance with Eurocode Load Model 1 (DIN EN 1991-2), permanent installations.

It can be used as a standalone bridge system or for the strengthening and upgrading of existing bridges. One of its principal advantages is the simplicity and speed of the entire construction process.

Fabrication takes only a few weeks. Once completed, the modular bridge components can be transported using conventional trucks and installed on site within a short timeframe.

This simplicity is also reflected in the structures themselves. The bridges are considerably more slender and lightweight than comparable concrete systems.

 

Modular Steel Bridge
A weight reduction of approximately 70% compared with concrete alternatives can significantly reduce foundation requirements and associated construction costs. Despite their slender construction, the bridges provide high load-bearing capacity. They are suitable for heavy transport applications and can provide flexible temporary diversions or alternative routes, helping to maintain traffic flows while existing infrastructure is repaired, strengthened or replaced.
Permanent Modular Steel Bridge

Permanent modular bridge systems for heavy transport

Bridge Builder GmbH only began operations in 2025 but has already completed numerous projects.

The modular bridge system has demonstrated particular advantages in demanding construction environments. One example was the refurbishment of Stuttgart’s historic Bonatzbau, where the building’s foundation cross had to be renewed while maintaining access to the site.

A 14-metre temporary bridge supplied by Bridge Builder provided the solution.

With a load-bearing capacity of 120 tonnes, the bridge maintained access for excavators and heavy construction equipment, allowing the construction works to proceed as efficiently as possible.

Any further delays to the Stuttgart 21 project, therefore, cannot be blamed on a shortage of bridges.

 

Faster Than the Railway Allows

Today, the company operates a bridge rental fleet providing almost 2,200 square metres of bridge deck area.

This rapid development demonstrates the potential of the modular bridge system. Combining fast fabrication and installation, high structural capacity, reduced foundation requirements, adaptability and reuse with the long-term corrosion protection provided by hot dip galvanizing, the system offers a resource-efficient approach to temporary and permanent bridge construction.

With hot dip galvanized steel at the heart of its design, the bridge system is well positioned for a long service life, and a significant future.

Oliver Pickartz

Project Information

Bridge Builder GmbH

Bridge Builder GmbH
Lukas Schramm
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