IntermediateTopic 66 of 112Civil & Structural
Bridge engineering
Beam, arch, cable-stayed and suspension bridges span different lengths.
In depth
Bridge types: beam/girder, truss, arch, cable-stayed, suspension, box-girder. Span range guides choice: beam up to ~60 m, cable-stayed to ~1100 m, suspension to 2000+ m. Design for loads, fatigue, scour, durability, constructability, aesthetics and maintenance.
Key points
- Superstructure and substructure
- Segmental construction
- Inspection and rating
ExampleThe Akashi Kaikyō suspension bridge has a 1991 m main span.
What is Bridge engineering?
Beam, arch, cable-stayed and suspension bridges span different lengths.
Why is it important to understand bridge engineering?
Bridge types differ in span and cost, so the type chosen depends on the crossing length, ground and appearance.
When is a suspension bridge chosen?
For very long spans, typically above several hundred metres, where cables carry the load efficiently over long distances.
What is a cable-stayed bridge?
A bridge where the deck is supported directly by inclined cables attached to one or more towers, which suits medium to long spans.
How is Bridge engineering used in practice?
Typical applications include choosing a cable-stayed design for a medium-long river crossing, selecting a simple beam bridge for a short motorway overpass and using an arch to cross a deep gorge with rock foundations.
What should I learn before Bridge engineering?
Study "Tall building systems" first (topic 65 of 112 in Civil & Structural). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.
What are the key points of Bridge engineering?
Superstructure and substructure. Segmental construction. Inspection and rating.
Can you give an example of Bridge engineering?
The Akashi Kaikyō suspension bridge has a 1991 m main span.
What comes after Bridge engineering?
The next topic is "Bridge loading", which builds directly on this one.
How difficult is Bridge engineering?
It is classed as Intermediate in Civil & Structural (topic 66 of 112). It is an intermediate topic. Work through the beginner topics in Civil & Structural first.