Lessons learned from current problems

DESIGNERS of the new Forth Road Bridge have learned lessons from the problems of the current crossing.

The decision to build a new bridge was prompted by corrosion in the main cables of the existing bridge and uncertainty over whether “hair-dryer” dehumidification measures could halt the deterioration.

The new crossing will have dehumidification systems fitted at several places right from the start. The cables have also been designed to limit corrosion as much as possible.

The cables are designed so they could be replaced by closing only one lane on the bridge.