Behind the orange cones: the skeleton of the bridge

From ODOT-

In our latest video, crews tie together miles of rebar to form the intricate web of steel reinforcing bars that is the unseen skeleton of the entire bridge. The rebar ranges from as small as one-half inch in diameter up to 2 1/4 inches across.



For this project, we use the largest diameter rebar available, which weighs 14 pounds per linear foot. These big steel bars are so heavy that it takes several steelworkers to move them into place and tie them into the reinforcing framework that supports the bridge piers and arches.



It’s fascinating to see up-close the cages that will become the concrete columns supporting the bridge. I interviewed ODOT Quality/Quantity Coordinator Thor Alvarado about the training and experience needed to work with this heavy and intricate material.



Thor’s job is to inspect bridges under construction throughout the state. His experience is valuable on a complicated project like ours because he makes sure bridges are built properly, safely and within budget.



According to Thor, the biggest challenges of working with rebar are harsh weather and lifting the long and heavy steel bars into place. He says teamwork is important because it’s dangerous work.



Do you know what happens to the rebar if steelworkers try to bend it with a torch? Watch the video to find out!



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