By: Atlantic Industries Limited
When a mining site in northern Alberta needed to safely move massive haul trucks over an active roadway, Atlantic Industries Limited (AIL) delivered a solution that checked every box. The team designed and supplied a heavy-duty buried bridge system that’s now handling some of the toughest loads in Canada’s mining sector—while also delivering long-term cost savings and operational efficiency.
Stretching just over 300 feet, the structure includes three zones: a heavy haul road, a pipeline corridor, and a light vehicle route. Atlantic Industries Limited tailored each section to meet distinct performance needs, helping the client improve efficiency without sacrificing strength or safety.
High-Capacity Corrugated Steel Arch Handles Heavy Haul Loads
Atlantic Industries Limited used a deep corrugated steel arch to support the mine’s largest trucks and equipment. This portion of the buried bridge system spans 177 feet and carries the site’s heavy haul road.
The deep corrugation reduced the backfill needed above the arch. That let designers lower the road’s elevation and ease the climb for trucks. As a result, the mine cuts fuel use and reduces long-term wear on its fleet.
The second section spans 123 feet and uses a medium-corrugation profile for lighter loads. This part supports pipeline and vehicle traffic. To join the two arch styles, AIL created a custom transition joint. It maintains strength and performance across the full span.
Customized for Cost Efficiency and Longevity
This buried bridge system handles three unique load zones: heavy trucks, utility lines, and light vehicles. Atlantic Industries Limited designed each section with its own steel thickness and corrugation depth. These changes helped balance strength, cost, and long-term durability.
The structure meets a 50-year design life. To satisfy Canadian building codes, fire-resistant coating was added inside the arch. This extra layer protects the steel in case of heat or fire exposure. Every detail focused on performance, safety, and value.
Built on Strength, Backed by Steel
The structure is anchored with driven piles and concrete pile caps to ensure long-term stability. At both ends, wire mesh-faced mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls complete the system, allowing seamless connection to existing road grades. These walls were designed by external partners and integrated smoothly into the overall plan of this unique buried bridge system.
Despite the technical complexity of the design, construction went smoothly. The full system is now in service and, by all accounts, performing just as expected under constant, heavy-duty use.
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