Methods of Concrete Bridge Construction
Building a bridge is a complex process to undertake. It requires not only the accurate knowledge but also the expertise. There are certain storage tank construction companies
that manage the process of bridge construction. When companies decide to take on such a project there are numerous variables involved that need to be considered. Including costs, environmental impacts as well as engineering constraints come into play along with deciding which construction method to use and bridge type to build in the process of concrete bridge construction.
Since the process the bridge construction is a lengthy one, there are several different segments in which it is divided into. Each of the segments demands its unique set of equipment which makes it possible to create a proper structure of the bridge. Inclusive of the variables mentioned, heavy construction equipment transport is also one of the important elements of this activity.
Lets now have a closer look at some of the methods and important characteristics of the concrete bridge construction process.
Factors to Consider to Choose a Suitable Method of concrete Bridge Construction
Before the process of building a concrete bridge beings, an appropriate method of construction must be chosen. Similarly to choose a suitable method, construction companies must consider the following factors for the bridge building activity to be seamless.
- Scale of the bridge
- Obstacles that may occur & to be crossed
- Regularity of the span lengths
- Horizontal and vertical profiles of the bridge decks
- Location weather
- Cost of materials
- Availability of labor markets
- Accessibility of the site
- Time granted for construction
Different Methods of Concrete Bridge Construction
1. Segmental Construction
Segmental construction is one of the most important developments in the construction industry. It is a method that is popular for delivering cost-effective and visually appealing structures that prove to be durable in the long run. This construction method is used throughout the world and its versatility can be applied to most structures, including highway, rail, and even movable bridges. Segmental construction is a method of construction that reduces construction time, minimizes traffic disruption, improves seismic performance, reduce maintenance costs as well as limits environmental impacts
2. Cantilever Construction
Cantilever method is the preferred method for building cable-stayed bridges. The reason being, this method is easily adaptable to irregular and long span lengths, congested project sites, rough and water terrain, rail crossings, and environmentally sensitive areas. When scaffolding and other temporary supports are difficult to install, this method saves all temporary work and allows bridges to be built at great heights. This method is specifically used when few spans ranging from 50 to 250m exist.
3. Incremental Launching Method
The incremental launching method is used in the construction of continuous concrete bridges as well as with steel girder bridges. This method can also be applied to tied-arch and truss spans, if fully assembled before launching, as well as to the construction of small and medium-sized cable-stayed bridges. Some of the significant advantages of the incremental launching method in the process of concrete bridge construction are, no falsework required, minimal disturbance to surroundings, increased worker safety and reduced area for superstructure assembly.
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