Project context: innovating while unifying
As part of the construction of four new locks on the Canal du Centre and the Charleroi-Brussels canal (Va gauge), greisch developed a unified technical solution for laterally moving suspended gates. This project aims to ensure maneuvering safety, optimize the weight of metal components, while promoting strict standardization of components and relevant architectural integration.
Aerial view of the Gosselies lock
A redesigned suspended structure: simplicity and stability
A self-stabilizing gantry
The gantry, the system’s central element, adopts a geometry with inclined legs ensuring longitudinal stability without the need for additional bracing. This choice optimizes the transfer of vertical, lateral (wind), and dynamic loads during operations.
3D model of the gantry with inclined legs
An innovative suspension with independent cables
Each gate is suspended by six independent cables, arranged according to the gantry inclinations. This isostatic configuration allows perfect synchronization between the motorized trolley and the gate, ensuring quick and safe closure.
Optimizing the gate itself
Vertical stiffness and easier maintenance
The gate panel has a rigid structure without horizontal stiffeners, minimizing fouling by submerged deposits. This design ensures better longevity and facilitates inspection and painting operations.
Detail of the vertical stiffening principle
A lighter trolley system
Thanks to the panel’s intrinsic stiffness, the suspension points are limited to two, reducing the complexity and weight of the traveling trolley.
Advanced standardization: a single system for four sites
All gantries, trolleys, and upper gate casings are identical, with adjustable elements (lifting lugs, technical walkways, dampers) allowing adaptation to each site. This modularity ensures interchangeability of parts and simplifies maintenance logistics.
A modular and versatile spare gate
The spare gate is made up of three stackable blocks, covering all heights needed for the four locks. The use of bolted connections slightly reduces fatigue life but remains suitable for a reserve part.
Exploded view of the spare gate with its three modules
Enhanced safety and simplified maintenance
Integration of technical access
The maintenance walkways are integrated into the structure of the gates and the gantry legs, providing direct access to critical equipment without additional structures.
Anticipated heavy maintenance scenarios
The maintenance walkways are integrated into the structure of the gates and the gantry legs, providing direct access to critical equipment without additional structures.
Conclusion: a sustainable, clear, and homogeneous solution
The solution developed by greisch for these four Walloon locks combines innovation, safety, and streamlining. The integrated approach to gantries, panels, and equipment not only meets functional requirements but also fits into a sustainable logic, clear for operators, and harmonious in the landscape.
Integration of the gantry on site
Lees het volledige artikel in het Engels – IABSE Congress 2023 PDF)