International Money Pile in Cash and Coins © by epSos.de
While it’s true that computers increasingly run our lives, they don’t always provide the best answer! At HBPW, we found out first-hand why computers aren’t always the way forward when we were asked to intervene with a project that spiralled over its budget.
The team at our contractors, Carillion, asked us to strengthen the listed Grade II Ouseburn Viaduct on the East Coastline near Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The solution included proposals that would add additional costs to the scheme, both financially and in professional time.
Our idea was simple and it saved a considerable sum.
HBPW’s Director, Paul Withers, said: “Sometimes the best policy is not to jump onto a keyboard, but to sit back and think about the fundamental structure, of the mechanics and stress analysis. “Paul went on to say that this approach will, more often than not, lead you to the right answer without the need for a computer package.
How did we do it?
Paul and his team complemented its “fundamental ingenuity” with 3D-finite element analysis, to put the finishing touches to the value solution.
“This was similar to how we tackled a footbridge at Milton Keynes railway station, when the experience and innovative thoughts of our expert designers paid huge dividends for the client.” Paul continued.
The dedicated team at HBPW is currently working on solutions for the structurally sympathetic refurbishment of the River Nene bridge on the East Coast mainline near Peterborough – the last cast iron bridge on the line. Keep an eye on our blog to find out how we do.
Client: Network Rail
Contractor: Carillion
Contract value: (£10m)