West Gate Bridge
West Gate Bridge
Key facts
Location
Australia, MelbourneDelivery
December 2024
Client
Department of Transport and Planning – Victoria
General contractor
VSL Australia
Specialized contractor
VSL International
Targeted restoration of pile no. 13 of the West Gate Bridge
Pile No. 13 of the West Gate Bridge, a major structure connecting Melbourne to its western suburbs, was showing signs of deterioration due to exposure to wind, climatic variations and the age of the structure. In 2024, the Victorian Department of Transport commissioned VSL Australia to carry out a repair programme designed to extend the life of this 48-metre pier and ensure user safety.
The first step was to design a secure access system: enclosed scaffolding, a work platform and a hoist to transport equipment. This configuration enabled work to be carried out at height in safe conditions.
The old protective coating was removed by chemical stripping over an area of 2,200 m², and the contaminated wash water was collected and treated at a specialised plant. The damaged concrete areas were then repaired: epoxy injections, crack treatment and installation of galvanic anodes to protect the corroded reinforcement.
To ensure long-lasting protection, VSL applied a complete system of six successive layers — inhibitors, anti-carbonation and UV protection.
Despite a tight schedule and the constraints of working at height, the operations were completed on time thanks to an organisation adapted to weather conditions and intervention windows.
This project contributes to the preservation of a bridge that is essential to Melbourne's road network.
Key figures
- 48
- metres of pile height
- 91
- repairs (treated concrete areas)
- 2,200
- m² of stripped surface area
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