There over 600 thousand bridges in the United States. All over the country, these structures help direct people. Valley’s, rivers, and much more are accessible because of bridges.
So, what types of bridges are there? Keep reading to find out the basics about bridge types.
Table of Contents
The Different Types of Bridges
What makes one bridge different from another? Why does it matter what type of bridge you construct? There are many reasons why bridge designs matter.
1. The Arch Shaped Bridge Design
One of the most common bridge types is the arch bridge. Before the ability to build grand structures, people relied on the basics.
Arch bridges are still in use today, though. And the materials to make these bridges varies. Concrete and steel are the more modern materials, while a stone was an older way to build.
2. The Cable-Stayed Bridge Design
The cable-stayed bridge is an impressive structure, to be sure. It commands a lot of attention, while also being very reliable.
The cable-stayed bridge has cables that attach to their support towers. These towers plant securely into the ground, and the cables connect to hold up the rest. Two types of cables designs for this bridge are fan and harp.
The Brooklyn Bridge is a mix of cable-stayed and suspension bridge design.
3. The Utility Bridge Design
When work is being done on specific, hard to reach places, a utility bridge comes in handy.
Utility bridges are temporary structures that transport materials from one side to another. They’re often made of steel and are easy to construct.
Learn more about these temporary bridges, and how you can get the materials to build one.
4. The Suspension Bridge Design
One of the most reliable and useful bridges is the suspension bridge. Its ability to span large expanses makes it invaluable.
The suspension bridge design is simple but effective. Suspension cables hold up the bridge from one end to another. Then, at the center, the bulk of the weight is evened out by connecting to the towers.
This way, the bridge can stretch across, and the cables connect at points in the middle.
5. The Beam Bridge Design
Of all the bridges, the beam bridge is likely the simplest. It doesn’t take as many complicated techniques to keep it afloat.
The beam bridge is exactly how it sounds: it uses beams and it straight across in most designs. In older times, the materials for it were wooden beams.
This design uses a simple engineering method of beam supporters at the ends. With a compressed top, the bottom is pressed and tense, so the rest stays steady. Steel beams and concrete are the usual materials.
6. The Pontoon Bridge Design
A pontoon bridge is a floating bridge that connects on the water. It stays afloat using boats or floats. Most times, these bridges are for light pedestrian or small car traffic.
One such structure located in Dubai is called The Floating Bridge.
More Industrial Topics
The technology that goes into building different types of bridges is fascinating. The genius of engineering these structures should never be taken lightly. And bridges that stand the test of time are marvels indeed.
Want to read more about world industry? Check out this article on about the benefits of cranes.
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