Waagner-Biro Panel Bridges for the Borinquen Geothermal Project in Costa Rica: One Bridge. Multiple Functions.
Facts and Figures:
Place/Country: Proyecto Geotérmico Borinquen, Costa Rica
Completion: 2025
Project type: Panel (Bailey-type) Bridge
Client: Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (Grupo ICE)
Description:
Modular steel bridge systems for pipelines and maintenance access: As part of the Borinquen Geothermal Project in Costa Rica, Waagner-Biro Bridge Systems supplied two modular steel panel bridges designed to support pipelines while providing safe access for inspection and maintenance.
The project, commissioned by the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), comprises two bridge structures with a combined bridge length of approximately 295 m. The modular Bailey-type bridges are designed for permanent use and combine robust structural capacity with the flexibility required for installation in challenging infrastructure environments.
One bridge system, multiple functions
A distinctive feature of the project is the combination of pipeline support and dedicated pedestrian walkways for maintenance purposes. The bridge structures incorporate cantilevered, hot-dip galvanised steel walkways with a minimum clear width of 1.0 m, providing dedicated access for inspection and maintenance alongside the pipeline infrastructure.
The main bridge structures have a clear width of 4.20 m and are designed for HL-93 vehicular loading. The supplied configurations include spans of 60.96 m (200 ft) and 33.53 m (110 ft), with anti-slip deck elements and modular truss configurations designed for efficient launching.
Launching noses, rollers, hydraulic jacks, tools and installation equipment were also supplied for the subsequent erection of the bridges.
Fast delivery and preparation for installation
Despite the substantial scope of supply, Waagner-Biro completed delivery within the required project schedule. The bridge components were delivered to the Borinquen Geothermal Project facilities in Liberia, Guanacaste.
To support the successful installation of the bridge systems, a training under the supervision of Waagner-Biro Bridge Systems was carried out end of July 2026. This provided the project team with practical guidance on the assembly and launching process and prepared them for the subsequent installation works.
Installation of the bridges is scheduled for 2027.
The Borinquen project demonstrates the versatility of Waagner-Biro's modular panel bridge system as a permanent infrastructure solution, combining structural support, maintenance access and efficient modular construction in a single bridge system.
