National infrastructure depends on heavy movable structures which function as engineered systems to maintain uninterrupted critical transport and water management operations. These structures need to operate safely, efficiently, and reliably under extreme environmental and mechanical conditions while supporting highway drawbridges and regulating inland waterways.

Force Control Industries, Inc. provides advanced motion control systems specifically designed for these demands. Its American-made, BABA-compliant Hydrastop braking systems are an ideal solution for a wide range of heavy movable applications from transportation departments to engineering firms and federal agencies across North America.

Types of Heavy Movable Structures

Movable Bridges

Movable bridges facilitate marine traffic while maintaining the flow of road and rail vehicles. These bridges temporarily shift or elevate to provide clearance, and fall into three main categories:

Bascule Bridges

Operate by rotating one or two leaves upward to allow vessel passage. Bascule bridges are fast-acting and commonly used in urban environments with high traffic density.

Swing Bridges

Pivot horizontally around a central pier, creating two navigable openings. Ideal for narrower waterways where vertical clearance is not a concern.

Vertical Lift Bridges

These raise the bridge deck vertically between two towers while maintaining a level position. They are well-suited for locations requiring heavy load capacity and minimal incline.

Lock and Dam Gates

Lock and dam systems are critical for controlling water flow, maintaining navigability, and managing flood risks. These gates are designed to endure varying water pressures, debris impact, and frequent operation. Common types include:

Miter Gates

Two swinging gates that meet at an angle, used in lock chambers.

Tainter Gates

Curved radial gates that pivot upward to control water discharge.

Roller Gates

Cylindrical gates that roll vertically, commonly used in spillway and overflow applications.

All of these systems depend on high-performance braking and motion control solutions to ensure safe, synchronized movement.

Hydrastop: Engineered for Heavy Lifters

The Hydrastop product line from Force Control is purpose-built for the demanding requirements of heavy movable structures. These AC electro-hydraulic braking systems are engineered for reliability, safety, and long-term performance in dynamic and harsh environments.

Key benefits include:

  • Fail-safe operation: Spring-set, thruster-released brakes engage automatically in the event of power loss.
  • Environmental durability: Sealed units withstand moisture, corrosion, and extreme temperature fluctuations.
  • Controlled performance: Smooth and consistent braking minimizes mechanical stress and maintains alignment across structural elements.

Made in the USA. Built for BABA.

Force Control Industries manufactures all Hydrastop systems in the United States to meet full compliance with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act. This supports federal project eligibility while ensuring consistent quality and accountability from design through installation.

Why Force Control Industries

With over 50 years of experience in motion control engineering, Force Control Industries is a trusted partner across bridge, dam, and industrial automation sectors. The company offers custom solutions for complex or legacy installations, along with comprehensive engineering support to ensure integration success. Hydrastop braking systems are an ideal solution for  mission-critical infrastructure environments, where failure is not an option. From consultation through commissioning, Force Control provides the expertise, quality, and support teams depend on.

Explore More

For technical specifications, product documentation, or project inquiries, visit: https://www.forcecontrol.com/products/hydrastop