Tower Bridge Bascule Chambers – Inside the Lift

Anatomy

• Counterweights swing through chambers to offset deck mass.
• Pivots & Bearings guide rotation.
• Access Routes enable inspection and maintenance.

Physics Snapshot

Image Highlights

Geometry & Dynamics (Indicative)

• Counterweight arcs: sized to balance deck weight plus live load margins.
• Pivot bearings: designed for rotational stiffness and durability.
• Lift/Lower rates: tuned for comfort, control, and vessel windows.

Safety Considerations

• Controlled access; permit-to-work regimes.
• Lock-out/tag-out during maintenance.
• Monitoring for clearances along counterweight swing paths.

Bottom Line

Chambers are the silent theatres of motion—where weight and water (hydraulics) collaborate.