The Helix, as officially named, is a famous pedestrian bridge in Singapore and above all the first double helix bridge all over the world. It was originally called “Double Helix Bridge” because it was adjacent to another vehicular bridge, Benjamin Sheares Bridge, the longest and tallest in Singapore. The Helix, despite its official name, is more commonly known as the name The Helix Bridge. Now let’s explore this world-famous architecture together.
The Helix Bridge links Marina Centre with Marina South in the Marina Bay aera, providing a pedestrian connection across the head of the Singapore River between the city’s existing CBD and its new Bayfront district. It was built since 2007 but completed in 2010, inaugurated in style with a huge firework display on April 24, 2010.
The bridge is 285 meters long, with the span over the water measuring only 50 meters. If all the curved steel applied in the bridge’s design were stretched out, it would have had a total length of 2,250 meters. The Helix bridge is constituted with 3 spans measuring 65 meters and 2 spans measuring 45 meters (3 * 65meters + 2 * 45 meters = 285 meters). It is equipped with 5 strategically placed viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the Marina Bay and 4 canopies that provide shades for the pedestrians. At night, the LED lights assembled on the bridge will be illuminated to engage with the surrounding facilities, a feast for the eyes of the visitors. It is a popular place for people to enjoy the nightly Light and Sound Show and immerse themselves with the vibrant atmosphere. It also serves as an outdoor gallery for artists to display their artwork and hosts varied events, such as the National Day Celebrations. Overall, the Helix Bridge is a prominent spot which integrates cultural, entertainment and recreational activities together.
Despite its versatile functions, what truly sets the Helix Bridge apart is its unique design, which resembles a DNA structure. The four letters A, T, C, and G representing the bases of DNA, Adenine, Thymine, Cytosine, and Guanine are also featured on the bridge. These letters are illuminated at night in red and green. The interesting part is the DNA-like design was created left-handed, contrary to the real DNA sequences. This creative design earned the bridge a spot in the “The Left-Handed DNA Hall of Fame” in 2010.
The construction of the Helix Bridge answers the call of Singapore government’s goal of promoting the identity of Asia’s ‘connected city’ and the architectural uniqueness. The DNA structure symbolizes life, continuity, and growth. Its commission was the fruit of a selected 36-entry international design competition held in 2006. The Helix Bridge expresses to the world the Singapore’s efforts to seamlessly unit art, engineering, and functionality in its urban landscape. In 2011, the Helix Bridge won the award for being the “World’s Best Transport Building” and multiple other awards. Besides, its design has also been praised as the world’s first. It is listed as a must-see attraction in Singapore by media.
The Helix bridge was constructed with 650 tons of duplex stainless steel, and 1,000 tons of carbon steel. The total weight of the bridge is 1,700 tons. The dual helix structure contributes to 5 times less material required for the fabrication in comparison with traditional box girder bridge. Thus, it gives space and budget for the consideration of better material, 2205 duplex stainless steel for longer service life (designated for 100 years) and lower maintenance requirements. Outokumpu won the bid in 2017 for the main reason that it could meet one -stop purchase requirement of all the 2205 duplex stainless steel plates and the 2205 duplex stainless steel hollow sections required for the helix structure.
2205 duplex stainless steel features excellent corrosion resistance of austenite while also embodies the high strength of ferrite where austenite falls short. That’s how it comes as “duplex”. Sustainability and minimization of harmful effects on the environment start from the right choice of the right material. At CIVMATS, 2205 duplex stainless steel materials in varied forms are available. We can customize 2205 duplex stainless steel materials as per your specific project demands. Welcome for consultation for free and purchase for value.
