BRIDGES & PIERS
PRECISION BLASTING
Blasting is a critical technique for the safe and efficient removal of complex bridge systems and their supporting structures. These projects require careful planning to address height, material strength, traffic constraints, and environmental sensitivity, especially when spans cross waterways or active infrastructure. Because bridges and piers are often engineered around crane capacity, their design can complicate mechanical demolition. In these cases, blasting offers a faster, more controlled solution. Demtech specializes in engineered blast designs and sequencing that bring down bridge components cleanly while preserving nearby assets and minimizing downtime.
BRIDGE CABLES/TOWERS
Bridge towers and suspension cables, often massive and under extreme tension, demand precise sequencing and structural analysis for safe removal. Detonations are typically focused at anchor points or tension zones to bring down towers without affecting nearby elements. Cable removal is carefully timed to prevent rebound forces and protect surrounding structures.
TRUSS BRIDGES
Truss bridges, made of interlocking steel or iron, are typically dropped using base-cut or connection-point charges that weaken the framework and allow gravity to bring the span down in a controlled direction. Their rigidity and span length demand detailed sequencing to avoid unplanned twisting, tipping, or secondary impacts during collapse.
CONCRETE BRIDGE PIERS
Concrete piers often support large spans and are built to withstand tremendous force, making them ideal candidates for precision blasting. Charges are placed to shear the column at specific elevations, causing it to buckle and collapse in a controlled footprint. Blasting allows for removal without damaging nearby piers, abutments, or waterway protections.
