Conveying metal posts to Bordeaux's New Stadium
The shower of columns symbolising and defining the contours of Bordeaux's New Stadium has been growing denser since the start of 2014.
Representing just over 1,000 metal posts, this cladding with its gentle reminder of the Landes pine forest is becoming increasingly visible. In order to better understand and experience the transport of these structures, which measure up to 37 metres in length, we were able to follow the 22nd convoy of metal posts from the town of Cadaujac to the New Bordeaux Stadium.
The convoy is made up of two unmarked vans in accordance with the Highway Code. The first van leads the way, indicating the difficulties ahead depending on traffic conditions and, above all, warning of the different characteristics of the road that have been studied in advance. Knowledge of the route is essential to anticipate and negotiate in the best possible way.
The role of the second van is to close the drive and, using a directional remote control, to control the angle of rotation of the 6 wheels making up the rear of the truck's trailer carrying the load. This specific functionality of the 3 multidirectional axles is the truck's main feature, making it possible to achieve such a pronounced turning area.
The last car in the convoy is the control car we were in. This unmarked car is in charge of managing the convoy. Driven by Mr COURNET, project manager for Castel & Fromaget, its role is to study the route of each convoy, anticipating the slightest difficulties. The aim is to ensure that the convoy continues to move forward during the delivery period.
All 4 vehicles are in direct contact, communicating via walkie-talkies. The aim is to transmit information as quickly as possible to the team, so that the vehicles opening and closing the gates are at a safe distance from the central truck.
The lorry will pass in the opposite direction to the traffic, as this is the only way of gaining access. The first van will then position itself 200 metres upstream of the roundabout to block traffic for the time it takes for the lorry to pass, and the second van, following the haulier, will swivel the rear axles. This pre-established measure is the result of authorisations obtained by the PAPION transport company based on the truck's weight and length. The lorry weighs a total of 40 tonnes, and is therefore able to take routes used by light vehicles.
The haulier must now park for 9 hours before setting off again, in full compliance with the law.
In the end, the convoy operation lasted just over an hour, covering a distance of 26 kilometres. A total of 36 convoys of metal posts will arrive at the New Bordeaux Stadium site. There are currently 14 deliveries of metal posts still to be made.
In connection with this news item, a closer look at the characteristics of all metal poles will shortly be available online.
