Engineering is all about meeting the needs of society using the resources that are available. I recently heard of one very interesting example of a transportation system that was designed for a society with very specific resources and challenges – Siberian “ice roads.”
My father recently visited Salekhard, a town near the Arctic Circle in Siberia. Salekhard’s transportation system faces unique challenges due to its remoteness and its long, cold winters. Although roads made of typical paving materials are used within the town itself, it is not feasible to construct and maintain roads to the many remote villages that surround it. The solution: “зимники,” (pronounced “ZEEM-neek”) or “ice roads.”
Siberian “ice roads” are simply paths cutting through the snow and ice of the Siberian tundra that allow cars and trucks to drive through an area that would otherwise be impassible by automobiles. Although they are somewhat (but only slightly) maintained, these “roads” are by no means a walk in the park. They are extremely rough on a vehicle’s suspension, and the route is very poorly defined. In fact, it is advised that drivers only travel on an ice road at night, when their vehicle’s headlights cast shadows over the uneven road surface, helping them to stay on the actual road and not drift off on to the unmaintained tundra that surrounds it. Unfortunately, if a vehicle does drift off the road or break down in another way, the traveler(s) must wait in the subzero temperatures until a vehicle capable of assisting them happens to pass by. Due to remoteness of the area, this could be on the order of several hours.
“Ice roads” are not unique to Siberia. Many northern countries, including Canada, Estonia, the Scandinavian countries, and even the US, have their own ice roads. However, the terminology most often used by English speakers differs slightly from that used by Russians. While the “ice roads” of Siberia do include some river crossings, such as the road crossing the Ob River near Salekhard, they are primarily used to cross land (tundra). In common English usage, the term “winter road” is used to describe this type of path, while “ice road” specifically refers to a road built on a body of water that is frozen-over, such as a lake or river.
This water-crossing type of ice road owes its development largely to Canada’s Northwest Territories, where the landscape is dotted with many lakes of a variety of sizes. In the 1930’s, thriving mining operations in this remote northern region led truckers to create roads across frozen lakes to shorten the transport time of goods to and from these mining towns. This type of road soon gained traction (despite the ice) both in northern Canada and other arctic and subarctic regions of the world.
Although ice roads over water are inherently dangerous, they are fairly well understood and maintained, making them reasonably safe for the experienced ice road truck driver. Various rules designed to prevent road failure are in place on such routes. While the specifics of these rules differ from place to place, they share many common features. For example, on many roads, driving is only allowed during that day. Perhaps the most important of these rules limit the speed at which truckers may drive. Although one might that think these speed limits are in place to ensure proper traction between trucks’ tires and road-ice, they are actually intended to prevent the buildup of a pressure wave in the lake water that could damage the road.
One of the most famous ice roads, the “Road of Life” to Leningrad, provided that city a vital link to unoccupied Russian territory during the Siege of Leningrad by Nazi forces during WWII. This road across Lake Ladoga was used to transport food, medicine, and munitions into the city, and women, children, and the elderly out of it. This makeshift supply route served as the city’s lifeblood for the several year siege, being reconstructed by the determined Soviets each winter. Eventually, even rail-road tracks were laid on the ice in order to allow trains to cross the frozen lake.
The very existence of ice rods can teach the transportation engineer several very important lessons. Ice roads demonstrate the necessity of transportation for even the most inaccessible of locations. They also show mankind’s determination and willingness to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles in order to obtain this vital asset. Ice roads should challenge transportation engineers to produce better solutions by demonstrating that even the most challenging transportation problems can be overcome with determination and ingenuity.
———————————————————————————————————————
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjTIhsExWUw
http://www.theadventurists.com/the-ice-run-team-handbook/the-ice-roads
http://www.mining.com/ice-roads-in-russia-and-canada-hit-by-mild-weather-67712/
http://www.businessinsider.com/soldier-turned-ice-road-trucker-dies-while-pursuing-his-dream-2012-12
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ice_road
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winter_road
http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/engineering/infrastructure/4212314
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/from_our_own_correspondent/9450807.stm
http://www.thedieselgypsy.com/Ice%20Roads-3B-Denison.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salekhard
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Road_of_Life
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBIqNk2P6Uk
http://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/siege_of_leningrad.htm
http://englishrussia.com/2011/11/29/lake-ladoga-and-the-road-of-life/
http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/540/multiple=1&unique_number=635
http://dangerousroads.org/russia/2216-road-of-life.html
http://alexanderclark.squarespace.com/world-war-ii/2011/12/16/leningrads-road-of-life-1941.html
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/35555296
http://www.junebarbarossa.com/blog/530538-lake-ladoga-road-of-life/
http://www.eyewitnesstohistory.com/leningrad.htm
Our outpatient mental health center in Atlanta specializes in providing exceptional treatment for those struggling with mental illness and substance abuse. atlanta depression treatment centers
At ARTS, we offer a well rounded addiction treatment program with multiple levels of care. Learn more about our drug rehab in Canoga Park, CA. Drug Rehab in the San Fernando Valley
acm sheets
Introduction:
In the world of sign-making, choosing the right materials can make a significant difference in the overall quality, durability, and visual impact of the final product. One material that has gained immense popularity among sign makers is aluminium composite panels. These versatile panels offer a plethora of advantages, making them a top choice for sign creators looking to push the boundaries of their craft. In this article, we explore the various applications, benefits, and design possibilities of aluminium composite panels, shedding light on how they can revolutionize the signage industry.
1. Unleashing Design Freedom:
Highlight the creative possibilities offered by aluminium composite panels.
2. Durability for Long-lasting Impact:
Emphasize the durability and longevity of aluminium composite panels.
3. Enhancing Visual Appeal:
Explore the visual advantages of aluminium composite panels.
4. Easy Installation and Maintenance:
Address the ease of installation and low maintenance requirements associated with aluminium composite panels.
5. Applications Across Industries:
Illustrate the wide range of industries that can benefit from aluminium composite panels.
6. Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness:
Discuss the eco-friendly attributes of aluminium composite panels.
Discover the art of homemade pickle making! This short and informative article delves into the world of pickling, providing you with valuable insights and tips on creating your very own delicious and flavorful homemade pickles. From understanding the basics of pickling to exploring different techniques and flavor variations, this article will inspire you to embark on a culinary adventure in your own kitchen. Learn how to preserve your favorite fruits and vegetables, experiment with different spices and brines, and savor the satisfaction of homemade pickles. Unleash your creativity and taste the difference of homemade goodness!
Discover the innovative world of iceriver. Explore our range of cutting-edge products, including the iceriver ks1, iceriver ks2, and iceriver ks3. Our state-of-the-art iceriver kaspa miner is also available, catering to all your mining needs. With IceRiver, experience superior performance, reliability, and efficiency. Unleash the power of advanced technology with our exceptional solutions. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, our products are designed to meet your requirements and exceed expectations. Stay ahead of the curve and revolutionize your mining operations with IceRiver. Visit our website now to explore our products and embark on a journey of technological excellence.
슬롯게임 메이저 슬롯사이트 에서 안전하게 즐기세요 먹튀 보증으로 더욱더 안전 합니다.
Liberty House Recovery is a brand-new luxury drug & alcohol rehab in Michigan that provides state-of-the-art treatment for substance abuse. Luxury Drug Rehab in Michigan
If you want to know how many delta skymiles needed for a free flight then please visit our site to read the full blog
토토사이트 검증 스포가이드에서 메이저 토토사이트를 추천 받아보세요.
ice road is beautiful place that i see
MGMT Digital is a boutique digital marketing agency that specializes in addiction treatment & behavioral health facilities. Where do you rank? Find out. boutique digital marketing agency
Experience the elegance and grace of Shahtaj Qaiser, featuring a stunning party dress collection that harmoniously fuses traditional and modern styles. With a vast range of party dresses available online in Pakistan, we promise to make you feel outstanding and pleasing in your favorite dress.
very good information offer thanking you very much
KING365TV subscriptions work on Windows, iOS, Mac, Android, Linux, and other platforms. KING365TV NOUVEAU LIEN