- Project: Zhongjin Floating Bridge Reconstruction
- Location: Linhai, Zhejiang, China
- Structure: Modular floating bridge
- Bridge Length: Approximately 280 m
- Application: Floating unit connection and stabilization
- FBR Solution: POWERNEEMA® fiber rope and soft shackle connection system
- Services: Rope selection, engineering support and on-site installation guidance
Project Background
The historic Zhongjin Floating Bridge in Linhai, Taizhou, Zhejiang, has connected the two banks of the Lingjiang River for centuries. Originally built during the Southern Song Dynasty, the bridge became an important part of local transportation and remains deeply connected with the cultural memory of Linhai.
The bridge also appears in the writings of renowned Chinese author Zhu Ziqing, who lived and taught in Linhai in the 1920s.
Following its reconstruction, the 280-meter-long floating bridge reopened in April 2026, bringing this historic landmark back to life.
As a rope manufacturer based in Zhejiang, Four Brothers Rope (FBR) was selected to provide specialized rope solutions for the reconstructed bridge.
A Rope Solution for a Floating Structure
The reconstructed Zhongjin Floating Bridge uses a modular structure consisting of floating units connected together across the river.
The rope system plays an important role in maintaining the connection and stability of the floating structure while allowing the bridge to accommodate movement caused by changing water conditions.
For this application, FBR supplied POWERNEEMA® fiber rope connection solutions, designed to provide reliable strength while offering the flexibility and ease of handling required for a floating bridge.
Unlike conventional rigid metal connections, the fiber rope solution allows controlled movement between floating units while maintaining secure connections.
Lightweight Soft Shackle Solution
One of the key requirements of the project was to enable the floating units to be connected securely while also allowing sections of the bridge to be quickly disconnected when necessary for river navigation and maintenance.
To meet these requirements, FBR developed a fiber soft shackle solution for the bridge connection system.
The soft shackle provides a lightweight and flexible alternative to conventional metal shackles. Its rope-based construction makes installation and removal easier while adapting naturally to the movement of the floating structure.
The solution was also designed to accommodate different connection loads and installation conditions, making it suitable for the modular configuration of the floating bridge.
Engineering Support
Floating structures require careful control of movement between connected units. The rope connection system therefore had to provide sufficient flexibility while maintaining the required structural restraint.
FBR engineers worked closely with the project team to evaluate the connection configuration and verify its performance under representative loading conditions.
The team also provided on-site technical support during installation, helping ensure that the rope components were correctly positioned and securely connected to the bridge structure.
Bringing The Historic Landmark Back to Life
The reopening of Zhongjin Floating Bridge has restored an important part of Linhai’s historical landscape and created a new connection between the city’s past and present.
For FBR, participation in the project demonstrates how modern synthetic fiber rope technology can contribute to infrastructure with both functional and cultural significance.
From offshore mooring and marine applications to floating structures and other specialized projects, FBR continues to develop rope solutions that combine strength, flexibility, lightweight construction, and practical installation.
The Zhongjin Floating Bridge is one example of how advanced rope technology can support modern engineering while helping preserve the character of historic infrastructure.
