Bridges

What are the 4 types of bridges?

These are the four types of bridges.

• Beam Bridge

• Arch Bridge

• Truss Bridge

• Suspension Bridge

Beam Bridge

A beam bridge has a horizontal beam that is supported by two piers. The beam bends if there is a load on the bridge. Bus cars, trucks, or a train can be a load. on the top side of the beam and the two piers Compression acts however Tension act on the bottom side of the beam.

Arch Bridge

The arch bridge is a significantly strong shape. A load on top of the bridge is often caused by compression on the top of the arch. It also causes tension on the underside of the arch. This tension could cause the arch to spread apart, making it weaker. the fabric on the sides of the arch acts like buttresses. the fabric keeps the arch from spreading apart. Arch bridges are the easiest type of bridge in recognization.  One of the oldest types of bridges and have remarkable natural strength.

Truss Bridge

The Truss bridge is a bridge built with triangles made of steel bars.

A triangle is a very strong shape. Forces of compression and tension act on the bridge. The diagram below shows the forces.

 

Suspension Bridge

The Suspension bridge is a bridge, where tall towers support the most cable. Smaller cables attached to most cables support the roadway. These cables are called suspenders. the main cable is attached to large blocks at each end of the bridge.  the traffic load on the bridge is transferred to the bridge. This causes tension within the suspenders. The suspenders transfer the load to the specific cable. This causes tension within the cables. Compression acts on the towers as they support the bridge's weight and traffic.