'Doing this job safely and efficiently is common goal'

Role for hydraulic engineering specialist in Van Brienenoord Bridge beam replacement

Nobel Waterwerken BV of Werkendam contributed to the renovation of the Van Brienenoord Bridge this spring. Commissioned by KnookStaal, the hydraulic engineering company was involved in the execution of the beam replacement on the bridge - a radical project that was carried out in a tight time frame of just two weekends.

The family business Nobel Waterwerken BV has been active in the maritime sector for many years. The company operates a fleet of crane ships and pontoons. The vessels are equipped with powerful hydraulic cranes. With these, the company can perform a variety of tasks, ranging from inspections and transports to support for specialized work from the water. In addition, Nobel provides vessel escorts to ensure safety during operations. “We are known for our flexibility,” said Mirjam Bosschieter-Nobel on behalf of the family-owned company. “Our vessels are multifunctional and we have the knowledge in-house to respond quickly to clients” wishes."

Time pressure

In the spring of 2025, Nobel Waterworks, commissioned by KnookStaal, was given a role in the large-scale renovation of the Van Brienenoord Bridge. “It involved assisting the contractor from the water in replacing a large number of wooden beams on the bridge,” Nobel explains. “An interesting job, especially since it had to be done in a tight time window of two weekends. Even in the preparatory phase, we actively contributed ideas on how this work could be carried out as safely, efficiently and practically as possible.” 

Furnishing two pontoons

For the work under the Van Brienenoord Bridge, Nobel Waterworks fully furnished two pontoons. “The first pontoon was for the scaffolding contractor,” Nobel explains. “On it we placed two 35-meter telescopic handlers, as well as a shelters, lighting and for safety barriers around the deck. After erection, the pontoon was mobilized to the Van Brienenoord Bridge and moored in the right place using winches. To support the work optimally, we carefully stationed and moved the pontoon with our crane ship each time. This allowed work to be carried out safely and efficiently from the right point at all times.” 

The second pontoon was equipped for the blaster, after which this pontoon was also mobilized to the Van Brienenoord Bridge. “This arrangement allowed the blasting equipment to remain directly under the bridge. This also made safe and efficient work possible, without unnecessary movements. In addition, we used our crane barge to hoist materials onto the pillar of the bridge.”  

Intensive cooperation 

A project of this size and complexity requires intensive collaboration, Nobel emphasizes. “You're dealing with bridge construction specialists, steel erectors, scaffold builders and blasting contractors. Each has their own specialty, but together you strive for one goal: to complete a complex job safely and efficiently. Our role in this is often supportive, but important for that very reason. Thanks to our years of experience, we quickly recognize where the risks lie and can respond immediately.”

Nobel Waterworks looks back with satisfaction on its contribution to the renovation of the Van Brienenoord Bridge. “It's wonderful that we were able to do our part in such a beautiful project. Together you get further - and that can be seen in the result under the Van Brienenoord Bridge.”