Two viaducts in northern Spain are getting a full revamp by Adif, the national rail authority.
The Martín Gil Viaduct over the Ricobayo reservoir and the viaduct over the Truchas River, both in the mountainous Zamora region are undergoing extensive works. Remote locations and the curved structure of the Truchas structure have created some technical challenges for Adif’s engineers.
The Martín Gil Viaduct will have its deck waterproofed, and its drainage system improved. The work also includes repairs to the walls, replacement of ashlars and application of corrosion inhibitors. Built in the 1940s, it boasts the largest reinforced concrete arch in the world on its 210m span. Electric welding was used in its construction, an innovative technique at the time. It is the project of engineer Martín Gil and architect Eduardo Torroja.
The Trucas River Viaduct is getting a new upper distribution slab, and its track bed is being waterproofed. Engineers will also install a rainwater pumping system, raise the track to allow a larger ballast bed, reinforce a pier and refurbish the vaults.
Adif is presently restoring other historic rail structures, including the metal bridges on the Alcázar de San Juan-Cadiz line (link opens in new tab).
