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This bridge is one of three surviving transporter bridges in the United Kingdom, and one of only two that operate today. It is one of only an estimated twelve surviving transporter bridges in the world. An iconic landmark of Middlesbrough, this beautifully maintained bridge features a visitor center and a main truss span walkway that is opened for tours. The truss span sits 160 feet (49 meters) above River Tees. The truss span is a cantilever truss span consisting of two cantilever arms extending over the River Tees. Unlike some cantilever bridges like the Forth Rail Bridge, there is no suspended span between the cantilever arms. Extending back from the main span over the river are the anchor arms of the trusses. The ends anchor arms (the far ends of the overall bridge) are held in place by cables which extend directly down into an underground anchorage. The gondola of this transporter bridge is suspended from the bridge by a system of cables, which attach to the truss span by way of rollers, which move along the bottom chord of the truss as the gondola moves over the river. A machine house south of the bridge houses motors and electrical equipment. Two operating cables extend out from the machine house up to the truss span to move the gondola. These cables were originally powered by two 60 horsepower Westinghouse electric motors, although in normal operation only one of these motors was required.
There is a single pony truss approach span at the north end of the bridge.
Above: Historical photo from Popular Mechanics showing the opening of the bridge.
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