© MCEDillinger heavy plate for the
U81 “Nordstern” bridge in Düsseldorf
Dillinger steel connects
Due to the extension of the U81 line, Düsseldorf airport will be linked to the existing light rail network and thus contributes to improving local public transport. The first construction phase of the U81 line, with a total length of 1,891 m, includes the new light rail line between “Freiligrathplatz” and the airport terminal. The new construction of the light rail bridge over the A44, the B8 and the “Nordstern” junction plays a central role here.
Special capabilities for flexible adaption
The “Nordstern” bridge – a truss bridge over 6 spans – has a total length of 441 m auf and was developed as a semi-integral supporting structure. The bridge was manufactured by using the incremental launching method. The largest span is 82 m. The superstructure of the airtight welded centre beam in truss construction was bend-resistant fixed into the abutments. This special construction method allows the bridge to “breathe” when the structure expands or contracts due to temperature changes.
Dillinger delivered approximately 5,000 tonnes of heavy plate, normalised structural steels in plate thicknesses up to 100 mm, for the “Nordstern” bridge.
Award-winning
In 2024, the U81 light rail bridge “Nordstern” was honoured at the European Steel Bridge Awards. The bridge was awarded in the category of road and railway bridges. In the same year, the first light rail train passed over the U81 “Nordstern” bridge in 2024, giving passengers an impressive view over Düsseldorf Airport and the surrounding area. In May 2025, the bridge was honoured again at the 10th Austrian Steel Construction Award.
© MCEData
Contact persons
Natalie Federmeyer
Sales Director
Phone: +49 6831 473449
Fax: +49 6831 47992685
E-Mail
Dr. Tobias Lehnert
Marketing Dillinger Saarstahl, Head of Department Wind Power & Construction
Phone: +49 6831 472394
Fax: +49 6831 473089
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Timm Condé
Senior Sales Manager, Steel Construction
Phone: +49 6831 472196
Fax: +49 6831 47992681
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