Infrastructure World Records China’s Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link Breaks 10 Records
The Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link, located in Guangdong, China, is a shining example of contemporary engineering achievement in terms of both innovation and technical mastery. This enormous project, which connects the cities of Shenzhen and Zhongshan with a network of bridges and tunnels, has not only revolutionized regional connectivity but also broken ten world records, cemented its place in the annals of global infrastructure development.
Creating New Paradigms for Bridge Engineering
- Largest Span Completely Offshore Steel Box Girder Suspension Bridge in the World
The centerpiece of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link is the longest span fully offshore steel box girder suspension bridge in the world. This engineering marvel, which stretches an amazing 1,666 meters, demonstrates the creativity and accuracy needed to build a structure this size over the open ocean.
- The highest bridge deck and navigation clearance in the world
At 91 meters above sea level, the bridge boasts the highest bridge deck in the world, setting new standards for engineering excellence. This highlights its strategic significance in the regional transportation infrastructure by allowing navigation clearance for large vessels and ensuring minimal disruption to maritime traffic.
- World’s Largest Offshore Suspension Bridge Anchor
Anchoring this ambitious project is the world’s largest offshore suspension bridge anchor, characterized by its immense scale and structural complexity. With a concrete volume of approximately 344,000 cubic meters, this anchor exemplifies the robust foundation necessary to support the expansive span and ensure long-term structural integrity.
Innovative Tunnel Construction
- World’s Longest Two-Way Eight-Lane Immersed Tube Tunnel
Complementing the bridge component is the world’s longest two-way eight-lane immersed tube tunnel, spanning 5,035 meters and comprising 32 tube sections plus a final joint. This underground marvel enhances connectivity between Shenzhen and Zhongshan, facilitating efficient traffic flow and reducing travel times significantly.
- World’s Widest Underwater Steel Shell-Concrete Immersed Tube Tunnel
Distinguishing itself with its sheer dimensions, the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link features the world’s widest underwater steel shell-concrete immersed tube tunnel. With a standard tube section length of 165 meters, a width of 46 meters (widest of 55.6 meters), and a height of 10.6 meters, this tunnel sets a new benchmark in underwater infrastructure design and construction.
- The largest single-volume cast for steel-shell immersed tubes in the world
The world’s largest single-volume cast for a steel-shell immersed tube using self-compacting concrete serves as a striking example of the technical complexity of the project. Achieving an impressive 910,000 cubic meters of concrete overall—a concrete volume of 29,000 cubic meters per tube section—this accomplishment highlights the careful planning and execution needed to realize such massive underwater structures.
Novelty Elements and Firsts
- The First Underwater Expressway Interchange in the World
The Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link introduces the first underwater expressway interchange in the world, known as the airport interchange, setting a new standard in transportation engineering. This cutting-edge feature, which improves traffic efficiency and safety, is a prime example of the project’s dedication to developing novel approaches to urban mobility.
- Widest Repeatably Foldable M-Shaped Water Stop in the World
In the last joint of the submerged tube tunnel, the project features the widest (three meters) repeatedly foldable M-shaped water stop in the world, a further testament to its dedication to innovative construction methods. Under harsh marine conditions, this cutting-edge technology guarantees watertight seals and extends the life of the tunnel infrastructure.
Effects and Heritage
In addition to representing a significant engineering feat, the completion of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link holds long-term advantages for urban connectivity, economic growth, and regional development. The project demonstrates China’s leadership in innovative infrastructure and reaffirms its commitment to raising international standards in civil engineering and construction by breaking ten world records.
As the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link goes into operation, it serves as a global example of human ingenuity, tenacity, and teamwork. This historic project is an excellent example of the transformative power of infrastructure in defining the future of cities and bringing communities together, with its record-breaking spans and tunnels, as well as its innovative features and groundbreaking construction methods. The Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link, with its unprecedented accomplishments, raises the bar for infrastructure projects globally, motivating engineers, architects, and policymakers to push the envelope and develop solutions that improve people’s lives and reshape urban environments for future generations.
