Beam Bridge: Features And Uses

Beam bridges are a popular choice for bridge design, used extensively all over the world. As their name suggests, they are constructed by laying a beam across two abutments or piers, forming a simply supported span. Their simplicity in design is one of the key reasons why they are so commonly used. In this guide, we will discuss the features, types and benefits of beam bridges. 

Beam bridge: Types

Beam bridges can be made using a variety of materials, including wood, steel and concrete. Wooden beam bridges are often used in rural areas, where they can blend in with the surrounding environment. Steel beam bridges are popular for their strength and durability, making them an ideal choice for heavy traffic areas. Reinforced and prestressed concrete beam bridges are also commonly used due to their high load-bearing capacity and ability to span longer distances. The most common types of beam bridges are girder, plate girder and box girder bridges. 

There are different types of beam bridge construction. One design involves placing many beams side by side, with a deck on top of them. Another type of construction involves having a main beam on either side of the bridge, supporting a deck between them. The main beams could be I-beams, trusses or box girders.

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Beam bridge: Features

Beam bridges are simple in design and are supported by an abutment or pier at each end. They are known as simply supported because no moments are transferred throughout the support. The concrete elements may be reinforced, prestressed or post tensioned. 

Beam bridges can be half-through or braced across the top to create a through bridge. They can also be built with many beams side by side with a deck across the top of them or with a main beam on either side supporting a deck between them.

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Beam bridge: Uses

Beam bridges are widely used due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, making them a popular choice for various applications. 

In rural areas, beam bridges are often used to cross small creeks or rivers that are not deep or wide enough to require a more complex bridge structure. In urban areas, beam bridges are used to connect neighbourhoods, parks and other areas where pedestrian and vehicle traffic is high. Due to their simple design and construction, beam bridges can be erected quickly, which makes them suitable for emergency or temporary situations.

Another benefit of beam bridges is their versatility in terms of materials. They can be made from wood, steel, concrete or a combination of these materials, depending on the specific requirements of the bridge. The choice of materials depends on various factors, such as the span of the bridge, the weight of the traffic and the environmental conditions of the area where the bridge is being built.

Beam bridge: Disadvantages

One of the biggest drawbacks of beam bridges is their limited span length, making them unsuitable for longer spans that require a different type of bridge design. Moreover, beam bridges are not capable of supporting very heavy loads or high volumes of traffic, which restricts their use to light vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians.

Another disadvantage of beam bridges is their vulnerability to earthquakes as strong forces can cause significant damage to the bridge structure, leading to collapse or failure. As a result, beam bridges may not be the best choice for areas that are prone to earthquakes or other natural disasters.

In addition, beam bridges require regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure their longevity and structural integrity. This can be costly and time-consuming, especially if the bridge is located in a remote or difficult-to-reach area.

FAQs

Beam bridges can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, steel and concrete.