Add enough weight, and the “bridge” would eventually break. The top side would bend in under the force of compression, and the bottom side would bend out under the force of tension. If you were to place a heavy weight in the middle of the board, it would bend. Imagine taking a board and laying it on top of two bricks. To understand how this works, think about this simple model or try it out in your garage. In supporting weight, a bream bridge endures both compressive and tension stress. The concrete elements may be reinforced, pre-stressed, or post-tensioned. More complicated ones are usually constructed of steel or concrete or a combination of the two.
The simplest beam bridge could be a log, wood plank, or stone slab laid across a narrow creek or stream. These things support the downward weight of the bridge and any traffic traveling over it. In order to build a beam bridge (also known as a girder bridge), all you need is a rigid horizontal structure (a beam) and two supports, one at each end, to rest it on. These basic bridges typically span relatively short distances. How simple? When cavemen laid logs over streams to cross them, they were building the earliest beam bridges. #1 – Beam bridgeīeam bridges are generally considered the simplest form of bridge. It could help you and your clients view bridges in a new light. While we’re at it, we’ll step back and admire a few notable examples of each.
Let’s take a look at some common bridge designs, how they evolved over the centuries, and the purpose each design serves. Equally important, they allow vital utility lines, including cables and pipelines, to span these barriers as well. Whether driving, walking, or traveling by train, they make it possible for us to cross bodies of water, valleys, roads, and other geological and manmade barriers. 29, 2016 Bridge Masters Bridge Designīridges are such a common part of everyday life, they’re often taken for granted.