Bridges by VFT method in Poland: state-of-the-art - Economical Bridge Solutions based on Innovative Composite Dowels and Integrated Abutments - page 97

Bridges by VFT method in Poland: state-of-the-art

Tomasz Kołakowski 1 & Wojciech Lorenc 2

Keywords: VFT, composite bridges, integral bridges, semi-integral bridges.

Abstract: Bridges with VFT method have been built in Poland since the year 2000. Many
diverse solutions and structures were developed, each adapting to the different conditions
and requirements. The experience gained in time and the well behavior of the VFT bridges,
allowed for the solution to be appreciated.

1. Introduction

After the year 2000 bridges using the VFT (VerbundFertigteilTräger - prefabricated com-
posite beams) method have been introduced in Poland by Europrojekt Gdańsk design office
with support of SSF. The first bridge was constructed in Poland in the year 2004 after the
successful implementation of VFT construction method in Germany. Starting from the static
scheme of continuous beams and viaducts constructed mainly above railway lines (“Fig. 1”)
the construction method by prefabricated composite girder evolved to semi integral and in-
tegral structures.

Figure 1: Two-span continuous beam (43m+43m) VFT viaduct next to Kije