On the aging Moseltal Bridge, which is part of the A61 motorway, strict restrictions have been in place for some time. Nevertheless, on Sunday, May 26, 2024, an impressive fleet of 24 trucks from Karl Michels GmbH & Co. KG, acting on behalf of the Autobahn GmbH, rolled across the structure. The purpose was to test the stability of the bridge.

After a detailed survey of the steel superstructure was conducted during a traffic-free period in autumn 2023, extensive restrictions were imposed on the bridge. On May 26, 2024, the bridge was temporarily closed to traffic to allow our fleet of 24 trucks to drive onto the aging structure.

24 Trucks, Each Weighing 40 Tons, on the Moseltal Bridge 
The operation was based on a computational model. To verify the actual load on the steel superstructure, the Autobahn GmbH aimed to assess how a concentrated load affects the bridge. Our 24 trucks collectively weighed approximately 960 tons — all placed on the Moseltal Bridge. The test results will inform the planned rehabilitation of the bridge, which according to the Autobahn GmbH is scheduled to begin later in 2024. The planned work includes repairs to the roadway deck and the steel superstructure.

Image source: Autobahn GmbH / Maurice Kaluscha