02/09/2025
The Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) approached MPW to help solve a major challenge with their bridge pontoons. Their original aluminium pontoons were being crushed each year as the lake froze over, causing the bridge to sink.
Our team designed and fabricated a stronger solution, a rigid HDPE box with gussets, foam-filled with polyurethane for durability and buoyancy.
Recently, a severe blizzard froze the lake and put our design to the test. Heavy ice build-up caused the bridge to sink, but once the ice was cleared, it floated straight back to the surface with the pontoons showing zero signs of damage.
A fantastic example of MPW’s innovative design and fabrication skills making a real difference in one of the harshest environments on Earth.