Gordie Howe Bridge Stay Cables Exposed

[@vehdynam]

Very interesting , and most appreciated. Many thanks.

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Vehdynam. Thank you, and it's my pleasure.😎👍

[@Chickadeew70]

Love your videos very informative and interesting

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Thank you, Dee! I appreciate the kind words. I hope all is going well with you and the family. 😎👍

[@williamlloyd3769]

Beautiful and functional

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi William. I agree! The bridge is a work of art. 😊👍

[@JoeLinux2000]

Your videos are always interesting

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Thanks, Joe. I appreciate that. 😎👍

[@thomasrobinson8336]

Nice year round footage.

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Thomas. Yes, it is! It's great to see the bridge progress in different seasons, isn't it?😎👍

[@spuds6423]

Nice vid, as usual!!!😀

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Thank you, Spuds!😎👍

[@paulcandiago9339]

Thank you for the lecture. Now that the HARP strings are accorded, we can play: When all the Saints are marching in. An auspice for the international bridge to be a safe, happy and long-lasting traffic life in honor and glory to the Teams that participated on the beautiful Constuction of the Gordie Howe Bridge.

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

I like that! But the song will be heavy on the bass.😎👍

[@chrissmith513]

WoW so Amazing😊😊😊

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Chris. Yeah. Very cool.😎👍

[@wespaul199]

Thank you Bob, I enjoy your videos

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

You are very welcome, Wes. I'm glad you like them.😎👍

[@RobertBOUSKILL]

Hello Bob, excellent lesson for people to be able to understand how things work. Personally I bought a twelve string guitar that taught me lessons I hadn't thought of before. Keep up the great work. Bob

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Robert. Twelve string guitars are pretty cool and sound great. I had one years ago. I still play around with my six string guitars, but just to entertain myself when the mood hits. Keep at it, like you videos!🎸😎👍

[@AllanMurphy-b1r]

Great Video

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Thank you, Allen! Glad you enjoyed it. 😎👍

[@budway1942]

Merci bob......

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

My pleasure, Budway!😎👍

[@Rick-qf5de]

Let me tell you about catastrophic failure....

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

I'm listening. :)😎👍

[@chadportenga7858]

The guitar comparison makes me think about restringing my guitar - for several "playing sessions" after restringing it, it goes out of tune because the strings continue to stretch until they reach equilibrium. I can't even imaging how much adjusting the bridge cables takes!

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Chad. That’s a great comparison - I bet the engineers who are doing the final tuning of the Gordie Howe Bridge are very methodical!😎👍

[@MadawaskaObservatory]

Hi Bob, Happy New Year. The GHB will be the 10th longest Cable Stay in the world. The Champlain Bridge In Montreal is 240m.

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Thanks for the facts Madawaska. I'll take a look. It's amazing how many engineering feats are in Canada! 🇨🇦😎👍

[@danlowe8684]

Wonderful video and info!! Question: Do the cable stays have climate control measures in order to keep humidity levels low to lessen corrosion and to keep ice chunks from falling onto traffic?

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Dan. Thanks for the kind words. They have considered the issue of icing in the design of the sheathing on the cables. I'll see what I can find out about the measures they took to combat the problem. Thanks again. 😎👍

[@danlowe8684]

@@bobjonesrealtor7756 Thank you!!!

[@carlbussmann7559]

How important can you expect the interment adjustment of the necessary adjustments to be? How can they be done?

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Carl. Interesting question. I am not an engineer, but I did a quick search and this is what I found: The intermittent adjustment of stay cables on the Gordie Howe Bridge is crucial for maintaining the bridge's structural integrity and performance. These adjustments are essential for several reasons: Load distribution: Stay cable adjustments ensure proper load distribution across the bridge structure, preventing uneven stress on specific components13. Vibration control: Fine-tuning the cables helps mitigate vibrations caused by traffic and environmental forces, ensuring a smoother and safer crossing experience1. Deck alignment: Adjustments are necessary to maintain the correct alignment and elevation of the bridge deck, which is critical for the bridge's overall stability6. Adjustment Methods Stay cable adjustments can be performed using several techniques: Tensioning: Engineers can adjust the tension in individual cables using hydraulic jacks or other specialized equipment3. Jacking: The bridge deck can be slightly moved to create room for adjustments. For example, the Canadian side of the bridge may be jacked farther away to make space for final measurements and adjustments6. Precision measurements: Advanced surveying and monitoring equipment is used to ensure the bridge alignment remains within tight tolerances, typically within 100 to 150 millimeters6. Continuous monitoring: Throughout the bridge's lifespan, engineers will likely use structural health monitoring systems to detect any changes in cable tension or bridge behavior, allowing for timely adjustments as needed13. These adjustment processes are meticulous and critical, requiring expertise in structural engineering and bridge construction. They play a vital role in ensuring the Gordie Howe Bridge remains safe, stable, and functional throughout its operational life. Thanks for asking. 😎👍🌉

[@Yooper_eh]

Any idea what the tensile strength of one of those individual cables?

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Yooper_eh. Nope, but I did a quick search and this is what I got back; The individual cables that make up the stay cables on the Gordie Howe International Bridge are composed of 0.6-inch diameter grade 270 post-tensioning strands. While the exact tensile strength of a single strand is not explicitly stated in the search results, we can infer some information based on industry standards. Grade 270 refers to the minimum ultimate tensile strength of the strand, which is 270 ksi (kilopounds per square inch) or approximately 1,860 MPa (megapascals). This means that each individual 0.6-inch diameter strand can withstand a significant amount of tension before failure. 😎👍

[@Yooper_eh]

@@bobjonesrealtor7756 Thanks so much for that. I knew they had to be incredibly strong.

[@johnjones1645]

Love this one Bob . . . Super clear, but with one 'looming' question . . . . Playing with math here (most certainly not my forte :o) . . . "allowing it to support 34 million pounds once completed" meaning it will support 17,000 tons. That doesn't sound like a lot! Especially when the new 'electric' transport trucks will each require 4 tons of batteries? I've obviously missed something here. Please help me find it :o)

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Interesting question, John. Not being an engineer, I did a search to enlighten me and this is what I got back. Hope it helps: You're correct that the Gordie Howe International Bridge is designed to support a substantial load, including approximately 34 million pounds (or about 17,000 tons). This capacity is focused on accommodating a large volume of traffic, including heavy trucks, without compromising safety. Regarding electric transport trucks, while the batteries do add significant weight-typically ranging from 1 to 4 tons per truck depending on the size and type of vehicle-the bridge's design accounts for the cumulative weight of multiple vehicles. Bridges are engineered not just to carry the weight of individual trucks but to manage the dynamic loads from many vehicles traveling simultaneously. The 34 million-pound capacity reflects the overall weight allowance for a significant number of vehicles, not just a single truck. So, while electric trucks may have heavier batteries, the bridge's load capacity is intended to handle the total weight from multiple vehicles in transit at any given time. Thus, the bridge should be capable of safely supporting modern transport trucks, while also providing enough capacity for normal traffic flow. So I guess if you piled 35 million pounds in one spot on the bridge it would be in trouble, but spread out across the half mile span is no probs!🌉😎👍

[@leeriffee4606]

Do you know if the stay cables actually anchor into the tower, or do they pass thru it and connect on the opposite side? Some cable stayed bridges have the latter arrangement. BTW, the first time I ever saw a cable stayed bridge, it reminded me of my grandmother's rope hammock. Some, especially those with a single tower at each end (like the Sunshine Skyway in Florida) make me think of the skeleton of some Godzilla sized dinosaur, with a pair of huge spines sticking up on its back. I won't be driving across any of these bridges, as we don't have any where I live here in the Mid-Atlantic coast. Well, not until the new Francis Scott Key Bridge is completed. Anyway, that was a very informative video.

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Leeriffee. I am not an engineer, so take this as my assumption not fact. From my understanding the cables each connect to a manufactured cable box inside the tower. The cable is passed through the concrete tower into the steel cable box where each strand is secured and tensioned. When the cables need adjustment they can each cable independently. So, yes the cables anchor to the tower.🌉😎👍

[@mjones8204]

Great video. They should rent electric bikes to traverse from one end to the other. And I haven’t noticed the way bikes get to the bridge. Bicycles are not allowed on the 401 highway.

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Good idea! It would be a really great experience. The pedestrian path on the Gordie Howe International Bridge will connect to several trails in both Canada and the United States: In Canada: The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, which is part of the Trans Canada Trail The Rt. Hon. Herb Gray Parkway Trail The Chrysler Greenway In the United States: The Iron Belle Trail The Great Lakes Way The Joe Louis Greenway The Gordie Howe International Bridge will be the first international bridge to join the Trans Canada Trail, connecting the 28,000-kilometer Canadian trail network to trail systems in Michigan. This connection will create new opportunities for cross-border trail tourism and recreation when the bridge opens in September 2025. I'll be addressing the buildings and access to the pedestrian path in a video coming soon! Good comment, thanks!😎👍

[@AlexCurrie-q9e]

Watching this video I had a flash back to the issues with the Port Mann bridge in Vancouver. For those who don’t learn from history the first snow storm or freezing rain event is going to create chaos if steps have not been taken to prevent ice forming on the cables, melting and thus releasing chunks of ice or heavy lumps of snow to plunge onto vehicles on the deck. This is what happens when a central tower is used for the stay cables because they fan out over the road. When BC built the Alex Fraser bridge it featured H towers so the cables were outside the deck and falling snow and ice falls harmlessly into the river. Nobody thought about it an an FMEA because we get milder winters but we do get some snow and some freezing rain. Did they install devices to mitigate this issue on the Gordimer How?

[@AlexCurrie-q9e]

Correction. Not the Alex Fraser. The Patello was built with H columns

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Lol. Now I've got two bridges to check out! Thanks for sharing, Alex.😎👍

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Apparently the raised rings on the exterior of the cables are a deterrent to ice formation. I believe I read there is also something in the material makeup of the cable covers that inhibits icing on the cables. I'll take a look to see what I can find. Thanks for the question.😎👍

[@owinstan]

@@AlexCurrie-q9e Correction. Actually, both the Alex Fraser and Patullo bridges have H towers.

[@maxcady7136]

The bridge will allow for easier access to our 51st state. 😉

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Maxcady. It will make access to Canada a lot easier as well. 😉

[@PacoOtis]

Rather a quite corny script about a magnificent accomplishment! Best of luck!

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Paco. Thanks for the feedback. I'm always open for constructive criticism I can learn through. 😎👍

[@bernhardtschubert]

😃🙏🏻👍🏻🙋🏻‍♂

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Bernhardt! Thanks for posting. 😎👍

[@albertmyers7176]

👍👍👍👍😎😎😎😎

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Albert. Thanks for the thumbs ups. :)😎👍

[@JoeLinux2000]

How can a round cable be made aerodynamic?

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Joe. Great question. I did a quick search and this is what came back; The Gordie Howe International Bridge employs several techniques to make its round cables aerodynamic: HDPE sheathing: The cables are encased in white weather-resistant, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic pipes. This smooth outer surface helps reduce wind resistance. Cable surface modifications: While not explicitly mentioned for the Gordie Howe Bridge, cable-stayed bridges often use surface modifications like helical fillets or dimples to disrupt airflow and reduce wind-induced vibrations. Dampers: All cables incorporate DYWIDAG external hydraulic dampers. These dampers help control cable vibrations caused by wind and other forces. Wind tunnel testing: Extensive wind tunnel tests were conducted to optimize the bridge's aerodynamic performance, including tests on cable behavior under various wind conditions. Cable arrangement: The fan-shaped arrangement of the cables contributes to the overall aerodynamic performance of the bridge structure. These measures collectively ensure that the round cables of the Gordie Howe International Bridge are as aerodynamic as possible, contributing to the bridge's stability and longevity in various wind conditions. Interesting, thanks for asking!😎👍

[@michaelpjeffries1521]

The components and sight preparations was all done by the truckers who did not invade Ottawa. Protesting the border delays. It will solve. Once it cleared last court challenge by the mistaken one. Public infrastructure should be owned and managed by public interests. Not private enterprise. For a century of complaining about border security and wait times.

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Michael. Convoy 2.0 is underway in Ottawa right now. 👍Thanks for the post!😎👍

[@GFSwinger1693]

Sorry, don't mean to be critical but I was hoping for a more in depth description of the process and structural connections. This is a fine, non-engineering based video however.

[@donalddiem308]

If you’re so smart,why not just google the making of the Gordy Howe bridge ??? Come on genius,this was never intended to be that kind of video !!!!

[@GFSwinger1693]

@@donalddiem308 Gee, someone misplaced their bottle of Midol I see. I clicked on the video because I was expecting a "making of the Gordy Howe bridge" type video. I was just hoping for a little more though. No need to get your panties in a twist especially since you are not the content creator.

[@ginog5037]

​@donalddiem308 Wow, Don lighten up. I understand your fuhrer has resigned...lol

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi GFSwinger. You are right. It was more for general interest. I'm not an engineer, just following this and other note worthy stuff happening in and around Southern Ontario, Canada. I'd Like many to provide more detailed technical stuff in my videos, but as a layman in most of the topics I'm learning while scratching the surface. Thank you for the compliment, and sharing your opinion. You are on the mark! 😎👍

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Ginog. Unfortunately, our PM just said he was going to resign when they choose another liberal to continue the corruption. We need an election. Both Canada and the States have been under radical woke agendas for years. True there is light beginning to shine through, but an election can't come soon enough in my personal opinion. 😎👍Thanks for the comment!!

[@Xbb.1.5]

Modren😂

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

It's not? 🌉🤔

[@Xbb.1.5]

@bobjonesrealtor7756 maybe modern

[@fcapio]

Lifespan less than 30 years.

[@TheHk1966]

Look up Mackinac bridge..65 + years and counting

[@bobjonesrealtor7756]

Hi Fcapio. I thought that lifespan was a little short so did a quick search. This is what I found; The stay cables on the Gordie Howe International Bridge are designed to have a lifespan of 100 years2. This is part of the bridge's comprehensive durability plan, which aims for an overall service life of 125 years for the main structure. The stay cables are considered replaceable elements, along with other components like bearings and expansion joints, which have shorter lifespans of 30 to 60 years2. This design approach ensures the longevity and structural integrity of the bridge while allowing for the replacement of specific components as needed over time. They replaced the cables on the Ambassador over the past few years after 90 some years of service. A good post that got me thinking. Thanks for sharing. 😎👍

[@fcapio]

@@bobjonesrealtor7756 of course, the lifespan of a bridge like that is determined by the condition of the cables. The removal of the old cables and replacement with new cables (if it ever happens) is extremely costly (labour and materials) and comes close to the cost of a new bridge. The old Champlain (steel) bridge in Montreal was demolished after 60 years and had serious problems after 40 years, associated with enormous costs to keep the bridge open. My definition of lifespan is the function of a bridge with no other costs than regular service. In short, a healthy bridge, and not a bridge on life support… you will see, if you are young enough. All the best …

[@owinstan]

@@TheHk1966 Mackinac bridge is suspension, not cable stayed. Big difference.

[@danielmcinnes20]

Slava Ukraine 🇺🇦!!!