An Introduction To Bridge Design

An Introduction To Bridge Design

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Simple garden bridges are a fantastic addition to any backyard. However, there are many much more complicated types of bridges. If you're interested in learning more about bridges, you've come to the right place.

According to Matsuo Bridge, there are six basic types of bridges. These types are inclusive of girder bridges, arch bridges, truss bridges, rigid frame bridges, cable stayed bridges and suspension bridges.

A girder bridge is the simplest and most common type of bridge. There are two basic types: an I-beam and a box girder.

I-beam girders are made in the shape of the letter I with one vertical web connecting two horizontal flanges in the middle. The box girder has two webs connecting two flanges on both sides.

Arch bridges make use of a curved structure to provide a high resistance to bending forces. Both ends of the arch are horizontally fixed, so that when a load is placed on the bridge, the bearings of the arch create a horizontal force. This feature is unique to the arch bridge.

The truss is a simple skeletal structure. Trusses are made up of many small beams that connect in geometric patterns to hold a large amount of weight and cross long distances. There are several different types of trusses, which vary based off the shape of the supports.

Rigid frame bridges are sometimes also called the Rahmen bridge. What makes the rigid frame bridge different from the other types is that it is made from one solid structure. Both the supports and the girder of the bridge are connected to each other.

Cable stayed bridges are composed of a continuous girder with one or more towers erected above piers in the center of the span. From these towers, cables stretch down diagonally to both sides of the bridge, holding up the girder.

Most cable stayed bridges use steel cables, as they are very strong but sensitive at the same time. Designers need to take the wind and the span of the bridge in consideration when deciding if a cable stayed bridge is safe to use for the crossing.

The final type of bridge is the suspension bridge. Of all the types of bridges in use today, the suspension bridge is able to cover the longest distance.

The standard suspension bridge is a continuous girder with towers built above piers in the middle of the span, just like the cable stayed bridge. Counter weights or large anchors are placed at both ends of the bridge to hold the ends of the cables.

These main cables are extended from one anchor over the top of the tower and fastened to the opposite anchor. The cables pass over a special structure called the saddle, which lets the cables glide as loads cart from one side or the other and to easily transport the load from the cables to the tower.

This is just an incredibly brief introduction to the different types of bridges. There are many more details that go into the design of a bridge. However, you don't need to be a bridge expert to enjoy a garden bridge in your backyard.

About the Author:
Todd Arend is a freelance writing professional whose expertise covers a variety of areas, including patio and backyard furniture, landscaping and design. He regularly writes about garden bridges and Adirondack furniture.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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