Along the Grand Canyon's west rim is the skywalk, a cantilever glass bridge that is situated 4,000 feet over the canyon's floor. The bridge, which is curved like a horseshoe, extends 70 feet from the canyon wall so visitors seeking a thrill will feel as if they are walking on air. Commissioned by the Hualapai Tribe, the attraction was designed by architect Mark Ross Johnson and opened in 2007.
The skywalk's deck is primarily comprised of four layers of low-iron glass. The bridge's glass sidings, designed to withstand high wind pressure, is also made up of the same material, with fewer layers molded to follow the “U” shaped curve of the walkway. Altogether, the glass bridge is fortified enough to support 70 fully loaded 747 passenger jets.
Photo courtesy of Abseilon
In June 2023, tnemec, Abseilon, and Fine Point Finishes collaborated to paint the bridge's steel components. The skywalk painting project required a solid process with a high performance coating system that could stay intact under constant expose to the elements in the canyon. Utilizing a stage, a mobile gondola with the ability to move along the bridge's curve, painters were able to efficiently get the job done.
The coating process was comprised of a chemical wash, clearing the work surface of any sheen or debris, followed by a mechanical abrasion. In the case of Skywalk, sandpaper was utilized to dull the work surface, preparing it for the next step, primer. For the final step, topcoat, painters applied Tnemec's series 1072 fluoronar.
Photo courtesy of Abseilon
Known for its excellent durability and weatherability capabilities, Fluoronar is fortified with Lumiflon FEVE resin. Coating systems that utilize Lumiflon FEVE resin technology benefit from its superior protective properties, preserving the integrity of a surface for decades. Low-VOC and anti-corrosive, FEVE-based fluoropolymers have a longer lifespan, making them ideal for structures under constant exposure to the elements. Because of these qualities, the Grand Canyon Skywalk will structurally and aesthetically remain in pristine condition for more visitors to come and admire in the coming years.
Photo courtesy of Tnemec
Photos courtesy of Tnemec and Abseilon
Categories Bridges