Abstract

The construction of the three-dimensionally shaped pylons higher than 400 m requires a very high technological degree. It is known that the application of the tapered slip form method for the erection of the concrete pylon of long-span cable bridges offers the advantage of being significantly faster than applying the auto-climbing system (ACS eww140918dxn) form method. Therefore, this study presents the development of an innovative slip form system for pylons with tapered cross-section. Surface wave inspection system is applied for the determination of slip-up time, wireless hydraulic control system is applied for auto rising, GPS system is used to manage the pylon configuration, and lightweight GFRP (Grass Fiber Reinforced Plastic) panels are applied in the slip form system. Small-scale tests were conducted three times to validate the performance of the developed core technologies, and full-scale tests were conducted twice to validate and verify the developed innovative slip form. The full-scale tapered concrete pylons have hollow shafts and a height of 10 m. The sectional dimensions are varied according to the construction height. The experimental constructions of the tapered pylons using the innovative slip form were conducted successfully. This system is the world’s first application of GFRP slip form panel.