Shortlisted for Two Scottish Transport Awards
Double shortlisting for AmcoGiffen at the Scottish Transport Awards under the Technology and Innovation and Excellence in Social & Community Value categories.
About our Technology and Innovation Entry
Glenfinnan viaduct is a landmark of Scotland’s railway heritage, serving the West Highland line for 122 years. It’s constructed entirely from mass concrete and remains the longest of its type, spanning 380 metres with 21 arches.
Given its historic significance and exposure to extreme weather, the viaduct needed essential maintenance to preserve structural integrity.
Delivered on behalf of Network Rail, the project leveraged cutting-edge technology and innovative methodologies. Repairs were carried out using rope access and cradles suspended from steel rope support systems, reducing the need for heavy machinery and minimising environmental impact. Given the fragile original substrate, anchors were designed using advanced structural assessment software, ensuring safe and effective repairs. We developed and tested bespoke concrete repair mixes with conservation engineering partners and concrete specialists at the University of Dundee. Over 18 bespoke mixes underwent rigorous testing—including compressive strength analysis, shrinkage assessment, and Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry—to ensure compatibility with the original viaduct concrete.
Advanced 3D scanning and digital modelling enabled precise assessment of surface conditions and repair planning. We developed test panels replicating site conditions, in situ, to carry out adhesion testing on the honeycombed viaduct barrels. This solution meant we could accurately verify repair methodologies without compromising the structure. In addition, we used digital documentation tools and tracking spreadsheets with enhanced oversight, ensuring precise monitoring of test results and mix approvals.
This project exemplifies how innovative technology and engineering expertise can seamlessly preserve historic infrastructure. By integrating advanced materials science, digital tools, and engineering ingenuity, we successfully delivered structural repairs while maintaining heritage integrity.
- Innovative Concrete Repair Solutions:
- Development and testing of 18+ bespoke mixes using Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry (MIP) for optimal compatibility.
- Inclusion of superplasticizers to enhance durability while maintaining historical accuracy.
- Test panel methodology enabled effective adhesion verification despite substrate deterioration.
- Cutting-Edge Structural Assessment & Access Methods:
- Rope access and cradle systems optimised for safety, reducing reliance on invasive scaffolding.
- Real-time structural assessment and digital modeling refined anchor placements and repair techniques.
- 3D scanning technology provided precise condition assessment, reducing material waste and improving efficiency.
- Digital Quality Control & Efficiency Gains:
- Dual spreadsheet tracking systems streamlined mix testing and repair progress monitoring.
- Digital documentation tools ensured accurate reporting, regulatory compliance, and future maintenance planning.
- Training IRATA-certified personnel for on-site adhesion testing eliminated the need for external specialists, reducing delays and costs.
Despite challenging weather conditions and complex access constraints, the project was completed on schedule, ensuring rail service continuity. The integration of pioneering repair methodologies, advanced material testing, and digital engineering tools underscores its achievement in technological innovation and excellence.
About the awards
Supported by the Scottish Government, Transport Scotland, Network Rail, The Railway Industry Association and CPT Scotland, the 22nd Annual Scottish Transport Awards will take place at the Glasgow Marriott Hotel in Glasgow on 19th June 2025.
The Scottish Transport Awards aim to bring the transport community together to recognise and celebrate industry achievements across Scotland.
The black tie celebration includes a keynote address from Fiona Hyslop MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and after after-dinner speech from Sanjeev Kohli.
