Motala Municipality ensures safe canal traffic through preventive maintenance

The Göta Canal is both a historic landmark and an important route for summer boating and tourism in Motala Municipality. To secure uninterrupted boat passage under the old “Gamla riksvägsbron,” the municipality turned to Jernbro for preventive maintenance of the bridge’s hydraulic cylinders. The project ensured safe and reliable operation throughout the season.

Motala kommun_Motala Municipality

Challenge

The bridge in Motala Municipality has two movable leafs operated by large hydraulic cylinders, each weighing up to 1,200 kilograms. A failure would block boat traffic completely. Access was also difficult, as the cylinders had to be removed through a narrow pedestrian door.

In addition, lane closures and crane lifts demanded careful planning and safety measures. The municipality also needed to secure the hydraulic system with reliable seals, clean oil, and functioning filters.

Motala kommun_Motala Municipality

Solutions

Jernbro was selected through a public procurement process thanks to its local presence and technical expertise. To safely handle the massive cylinders, the team built custom trolleys that made transport through the narrow access point possible. Safety was a top priority, with controlled lane closures, crane operations, and detailed risk assessments.

In Jernbro’s workshop, the team disassembled and inspected the cylinders, then fitted them with new seals. They pressure-tested the equipment, replaced the filters, and purified the hydraulic oil to ensure long-term reliability. Finally, they reinstalled the cylinders, refilled the system, and commissioned it for operation.

− Their local presence made things easier for us, as travel distances were shorter and coordination was smoother, says Mikael Einarsson, operating engineer at Motala Municipality.

Motala kommun_Motala Municipality

Results

The renovated hydraulic cylinders now keep the bridge operating safely and reliably. As a result, boats can pass throughout the summer season. They can do so without risk of interruption. Moreover, the Jernbro team managed the complex logistics and heavy components successfully, while maintaining the highest safety standards.

− We are very pleased with the project. Jernbro’s team was professional, humble, and honest. They communicated well and were flexible when additional tasks arose, Mikael Einarsson explains.

Jernbro secured the hydraulic system for the future by renewing seals. They also purified the oil and installed new filters. These measures reduce the likelihood of malfunctions.

Why choose Jernbro

  • Specialist expertise in hydraulics and heavy equipment
  • Flexibility to solve complex logistical challenges
  • Local presence and long-term commitment
  • Reliability through thorough safety planning and quality Assurance
  • Customer oriented approach

Need reliable solutions for hydraulic systems?

Let’s find the right solution together.

Jan Olofsson

Group Manager Mechanics

Specific Service (Maintenance)