In this article, we will examine the most important aspect of bridges – concrete spans. Bridge engineers should be familiar with the many terms used in the design of bridges. During the design phase, every bridge can be divided into three segments.
- Superstructure
- Substructure
- Foundation
Superstructure:
The section of a structure that supports the traffic includes the deck and slab. The superstructure consists of all the areas of a Bridge that are supported by a supporting system.
Substructure
The portion of the structure supports the superstructure and transfers the structural load to the such as piers and abutments. foundations,
Foundation
The foundation is responsible for distributing loads from the substructure into the bearing stratum. Shallow or deep foundations can be used, depending on the geotechnical properties of the bearing stratum. Pilings and wells are often used for bridge foundations.
Now, let’s examine the five main components of an RC bridge.
Girder/ Beam
A beam or girder is the section of the superstructure that bends across the span. The deck is held in place by the load-bearing component. The span is defined as the distance between two support points, such as piers or abutments. The bridge deck is directly responsible for carrying traffic loads. Decking materials can transfer loads from the deck to the rafters.
Bearings transfer loads from the rafters onto the pier cap. Bearings are components that support a section of the bridge and transmit forces from this section to another part. They also allow angular or linear movement.
Headstock / Pier Cap
Pier caps or headstocks are the components that transfer loads from the superstructure onto the piers. Pier caps provide enough seating for bridge girders and distribute loads to the Piers from the Bearings.
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Pier
Piers are the section of the substructure that supports the superstructure and transfers the loads from the superstructure onto the foundations at the end span. The pier is shaped to meet the requirements based on aesthetics and site constraints.
Reinforced concrete or pre-stressed concrete is often used to construct piers.
Piers are compression members. The piers can also bend depending on the bearing articulations and stress.
Pile Caps and Piles
A pile foundation is the most common foundation system used for bridges. A pile is a thin, load-bearing compression member that’s driven into the ground or created to resist loads. The pile cap is a reinforced concrete mass that is cast around the top of a pile group to ensure they work together and distribute the load evenly.
Final Remarks
Calculating construction estimates is essential. The sample cost estimation template for construction can be used to estimate budgets. Excel sheets and spreadsheets can help you keep track of costs. Costs can be calculated for labor, materials, and legal costs then compared to the budget.