Network Rail to use synthetic wood for £4.5m viaduct upgrade

Recyclable and reusable, the 190 manufactured fibrous bearer beams have double the life expectancy of their timber predecessors.

Eskmeals viaduct in Cumbria is currently supported by 160 timber beams. As part of the £4.5m works programme, all of these would be replaced by 190 FFU synthetic wood beams. The original 160 beams will be recycled.

Network Rail said the change would bolster the viaduct’s capacity to handle the effects of climate change. The beams also boast a longer life expectancy – while the timber versions have an expectancy of 25 years, these would have 50 years.

“This £4.5m project to replace the timbers of Eskmeals viaduct will make journeys more reliable for years to come,” said Jonny Rayson, Network Rail’s works delivery manager.

“Using synthetic materials instead of wood means there is an increased life expectancy, reduced maintenance costs for Network Rail and reduced disruption for passengers and freight operators,” he added.

Network Rail’s Northern director, Craig Harrop, chimed in: “All investment in railway infrastructure is to be welcomed – particularly so when it supports the reliability of services in the long term. Rail replacement buses will help customers get where they want to be in the short term – and I’d like to thank them for their understanding whilst this important work takes place.”

FFU synthetic wood is manufactured by soaking glass-fibre strands in polyurethane, curing the result, and then putting it through a controlled cooling process. The material has been used since 1980 and is the work of Sekisui Railway Technology.

The replacement work will necessitate the closure of the viaduct to trains from 6 September to 23 September.