RMD KWIKFORM has completed one of its most prestigious bridge tower formwork contracts of recent years. The company supplied its Slipform system for use in the construction of the new Ting Kau Bridge in Hong Kong.

The design called for the construction of three main towers that vary in height between 162 metres and 194 metres. It also demanded a highly adaptable formwork system that could cope with awkward changes in shape between the three sections of each tower, while providing soffit support for the transition slabs.

The Slipform rig configuration devised by RMD KWIKFORM Hong Kong engineers comprised separate platforms for storage, steel fixing and inspection. At times the rate of climb exceeded four metres a day, and always within the plus or minus 18mm permitted tolerance. In addition to Slipform, the project also used RMD Kwikform's Jump Form System, its Super Slim system and Alform beams.

The bridge – one of the longest cable stayed bridges in the world, with main spans of 448 metres and 475 metres – links the Tai Lam Tunnel to the Tsing Yi sections of Route 3 – the Western New Territories to Chek Lap Kok Airport. It was constructed by Ting Kau Contractors joint venture for the Highway Department of Hong Kong.

The project was one of a growing number of tower, chimney, silo and core projects around the world where engineers and contractors have opted for Slipform. To date it has been used on more than 800 structures in 21 countries. Thanks to rates of climb that can be typically 7.5 metres a day, the system has won a reputation for shortening construction periods. The ability to accommodate openings, surface flutes, changes in wall thickness and tapering profiles ensures its suitability on even the most complex projects.

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