Norwegian aluminium smelter Norsk Hydro ASA released a study late last week that examined the feasibility of replacing steel with aluminium in suspension bridges, noting that such a move would yield several advantages over current technology and techniques.

Thomas B. Svendsen, Market Manager in Hydro Extruded Solutions, said the study looked at the use of aluminium for use in constructing girders for longer suspension bridges.

Hydro says a project currently underway in Langenuen is testing the feasibility of constructing a bridge with aluminium components. The project is measuring several factors, including stability, fatigue, stress, and deflections.

“Aluminum has several advantages,” explained Daniel Tran, risk engineer at the Norwegian Public Roads Administration. “An aluminum bridge does not corrode because the oxide coating of aluminum protects against corrosion. Paint is therefore not needed. Aluminum in the bridge can contain up to 100% recycled material, so aluminum is both a climate-friendly and cost-reducing material choice.”

So far, Hydro says the study has confirmed that builders and designers may save time and money by transitioning from steel to aluminium.

Guido Sabatini, Technical Manager for building and standards at European Aluminium, elaborated upon the importance of the study.

Hydro says the study has progressed to phase two, which will answer several remaining questions and is expected to settle the issue of feasibility as well.

“With the promising results from this Langenuen study, this could be the start of a new way of thinking about aluminium as a strong, durable material and as a material that could be used in large infrastructure projects,” noted Hydro Corporate Technology Office (CTO) Research Manager Trond Furu.

Norsk Hydro, which was founded in 1905, financed by the Swedish Wallenberg family and French banks, began its life named Norsk hydro-elektrisk Kvælstofaktieselskab (literally, “Norwegian hydro-electric nitrogen limited”) by Sam Eyde. The Norwegian government owns approximately 40% of the company at the present time. Norsk Hydro is one of the largest aluminium companies in the world, with plants in Rjukan, Raufoss, Vennesla, Karmøy, Høyanger, Årdal, Sunndalsøra, and Holmestrand. Norsk also has several plants abroad, including in Germany and Brazil.