Malang (30/11), In recent times, bridges made from glass have become a popular trend. Developers are often interested in developing these bridges because of their aesthetic visual form and high artistic value. Many glass bridges have even become tourist icons that are often used as photo spots by the public.
However, the recent disastrous incident in Banyumas, Central Java, where a glass bridge broke and caused fatal accidents for several visitors, shows that the construction of glass bridges requires special attention. In reviewing this incident, a Civil Engineering lecturer from the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM), Ir. Andi Syaiful Amal, MT, IPM, ASEAN Eng., noted three important things that must be considered when building a glass bridge.
"There are at least three basic aspects that need to be considered, namely construction, structure, and materials. Especially if construction is carried out in locations that have extreme conditions," said Andi.
Mr. Andi emphasized that the bridge structure must go through careful calculations, including expansion and contraction that occur due to temperature changes, both hot and cold. If not properly calculated, the bridge is at risk of cracking or even breaking, threatening the safety of visitors.
"Glass as a material is susceptible to cracking, so significant temperature changes over a long period can be dangerous. This applies even to pedestrian bridges," he explained.
In terms of material, a glass bridge should ideally have a glass thickness of around 1.5 centimeters. It is necessary to take into account fluctuating loads, crowd levels, visitor weight, and weather changes. These changes repeatedly can cause cracks in the glass.
Finally, Andi highlighted the importance of carrying out regular evaluations of the condition of glass bridges. Standardization related to construction, such as glass shifting, cracking, loose bolts, and other construction aspects, must be considered regularly.
"Everything related to the structure and materials must be evaluated periodically so that the bridge remains safe and can become a safe tourist destination for the community," he concluded.
