Paper No.
668
 Simpler geometry
3.9 Structural Placement Methods;
a) Self propelled Modular Transporters also
called SPMT’s
These vehicles play major role in transportation
of heavy loads to the extent of carrying 1000MT
from casting yard to bridge location. Large
transport corridors either road or rail can be
completed ahead of schedule by planning and
using these vehicles. These vehicles are large
multi-axle platforms, they are computer operated,
can turn 360º, it can lift, lower, can move
around walking speed, each axle of transporter
moves independently. Fig. 2 shows the loaded
SPMT.
Fig. 2 Complete Superstructure of Self Propelled
Modular Transporter
Time and cost advantages;
 Time period; Projects can be completed in
40% or less than stipulated time period
 Costing; Savings to the extent of 20% or more
can be achieved
4. Introduction of Geo-physical
methods for precise and
accelerated planning of
projects
Delhi signature bridge – well foundation sat
precariously on sloped hard strata, an under
construction bridge pier in back water‘s of
Sharavathi river Linganamakki dam–Karnataka,
collapsed, reason, variable soil strata at micro level
not investigated and not possible to investigate
by our present geo-technical methods. Both the
projects delayed years for completion and common
man landed in trouble.
4.1 A system is required which is superfast,
74 Journal of the indian Roads Congress, July - September, 2017
costing at fraction of geo-technical investigation,
yes, there comes geo-physical investigation, where
in, we can see beneath the earth by 100-200 m,
for various strata’s, presence of water and many
stratigraphies.
4.2 Knowledge of unforeseen, highly variable
sub-surface ground conditions reduces project risk,
cost, time period of completion with improved
safety. Geophysical methods are pre-diagnosis for
bridge site even before geotechnical investigations.
Geophysical methods are all non-invasive. These
methods provide an expeditious and economical
means of supplementing information obtained by
direct exploratory methods, such as boring, test
pits and in-situ testing. These methods can identify
local anomalies that might not be identified by
other methods of exploration; these methods also
define strata boundaries between widely spaced
borings for more realistic prediction of sub surface
profiles. Advances in processing and imaging
software have made it possible to detect, display
and interpret small geological features with great
accuracy. These geophysical investigations in
conjunction with geotechnical investigation will
provide accurate sub-strata profile. A well designed
geophysical investigation helps in optimising
the location and depth of boring for geotechnical
investigations, resulting in savings in terms of cost
and time of project.
Fig. 3 shows stratigraphy in clay environment,
Fig. 4 shows section across river with shear zone
indicated in blue.