Custom Lifting Solutions: Bridges

When it comes to railroad maintenance, lifting is rarely a one-size-fits-all job, especially beyond routine track repairs. That’s where Enerpac’s customizable lifting systems come in. Whether it’s a bridge, diamond, or locomotive that needs lifting, we’ll work directly with you to understand the scope of the job and help build you a custom lifting system using Enerpac’s long-standing, industry-proven tools—no matter how big or small the lift.

In this Lifting Spotlight series, we’re simplifying Enerpac’s extensive catalog to show how you can create custom lifting systems tailored to your railroad lifting jobs.

First up: custom bridge lifting systems.

Lifting Railroad Bridges

Bridges bear the brunt of repeated stress from every passing train. Over time, sagging occurs in bridge spans and bridge ends near the approach embankments, where vertical load shifts are most severe. These repeated impacts at the transition zone can cause structural settlement, accelerating track wear and compromising the integrity and safety of both the bridge and the track.

How Railroads Lift Bridges with Enerpac

When a bridge end settles and dips below level, maintenance crews need to lift it to restore a level track for the safety of passing of trains. This type of lift calls for a powerful, portable lifting system. One that can be deployed quickly in tight, remote, or otherwise difficult locations.

Bridge Lifting Components

A bridge lift requires hydraulic cylinders, pumps, a manifold, and hoses. Enerpac offers a wide selection of each, making it easy to build a lifting system tailored to the specific demands of your bridge. We’ll help you figure out the correct type of each necessary component so you’ve got exactly what you need for your lifting job.

Cylinders for Bridge Lifts

The Enerpac RAC-Series hydraulic cylinders are ideal for bridge jobs, offering 10–150 ton capacity in a variety of stroke heights. For bridge applications, we see 30–40 ton cylinders most commonly used. 

The RAC-Series cylinders are an excellent choice for bridge lifts due to their lightweight aluminum construction, which provides portability and precise positioning. Additionally, they're corrosion-resistant and will withstand wet or harsh environments.

Pump for Bridge Lifts

• ZG5-Series gas-powered pump (gas over hydraulic): Most powerful and ideal for heavy-duty lifts in the field where there’s no access to electricity, like bridge sites.
  

• ZC-Series battery-powered pump (battery over hydraulic): Lower output but ultra-portable. Cordless and requires no fuel–great for remote areas where convenience and portability is of most importance. 

Hoses for Bridge Lifts

Enerpac’s H900-Series high-pressure hoses are heavy-duty, rated for 10,000 psi and rubber-coated. They offer the flexibility and low “memory” needed for long hose runs.

Manifolds for Bridge Lifts

Enerpac offers several manifold options that are suitable for bridge applications based on your desired control setup:

• AM21 & AM41: Pre-mounted manifolds that function as split-flow valves to control 2 to 4 single-acting cylinders simultaneously.
  

• AMGC41 & AMGC42: 4-way single- and double-acting manifold assemblies with female couplers on all ports, allowing fast connection to up to 4 cylinders.

Ready-Made Option

TL248 Track Lifting System

For crews needing a turnkey solution, the Enerpac TL248 simplifies complex track lifts. Designed based on input from the railroad industry, the TL248 was made for heavy, precise lifts–ideal for bridge ends, turnouts, diamonds, switches, retarders, and more.

• Lifts from below—perfect for tight areas where cranes can’t operate, like under bridges.

• Centralized control with color-coded valves matched to hydraulic lines for straightforward operation.

• Redundant safety systems, including manual needle valves and pilot-operated check valves, prevent unintended cylinder movement.

• Compact and mobile—fits in a pickup bed and includes fork pockets and dual lift hooks for easy transport. 

We'll help you build your lifting system.

From track repairs to major bridge lifts, Enerpac’s lifting tools give maintenance crews the flexibility to build the exact system they need—no more, no less. Industry-Railway Suppliers and Enerpac have been partners for decades, and together, we’ll help you build the right system for your job. Call or email us, and we’ll connect you with our field support team to assess your lifting needs and recommend the right components.

Next up: custom diamond lifting systems.

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