Modern urban bridge construction is an elegant blend of art and technology check this. The finished product adds a nice touch to the skyline of the host city, as well as being a key part of their infrastructure. Different types of bridges are built using different mechanisms, but they all follow the same basic steps.
The Bridge Foundation
The foundation’s load-bearing beams must first be placed and plotted. The pillars can be in many shapes and sizes but usually consist of a concrete foundation with steel bars running along the base for reinforcement. In this structure, the steel columns that will be the towers of support for the entire bridge can be mounted. In some cases, the pillars of these bridges can reach hundreds of meters in height and carry millions of lbs of weight.
Placement of concrete can be a crucial aspect of construction and make a big difference to the overall integrity. The bedrock under the water needs to be stable in order to avoid shifting with time. When choosing crossing points for bridge installations over long bodies of water, firmness and mineral content of this underlying soil is one factor that goes into the selection process.
There is a technique to pour the concrete in place, since the bulk of the mass will be submerged. Electric motors are used to pump water out of a steel tube with a diameter equal to the support column. The steel reinforcement cage is inserted into the hole and buried at a depth between 30 to 60 feet. Concrete can then be poured into the hole, and your foundation will be completed.
Suspension Framework
The suspension cables that will help support the weight of a bridge are built in sections. It is impossible for the flatbed frame that will support the road to be able to support itself. Every time a section of steel beams between 50 and 100 feet long is bolted to place, a suspension cable that will permanently attach it to the nearest support column is installed.
It is important to ensure that the weight is distributed evenly throughout the entire process. This is how the suspension bridge will look. Its skeletal structure takes shape from the support pillars, meeting at the mid-point between each.
Paving and Utilities
At this point, the suspension bridge is ready for paving, which will make it a part of the state’s road infrastructure. The structure that was previously laid is a solid surface on which asphalt can be poured, and then crowned like a normal road.
Like a section of interstate, the bridge also requires lighting. The electrical wiring and components are located in the hollow sections, which shields them against vandalism and the weather. A large number of beacons are also mounted to the top of the towers.
Final Preparations
After all this has been completed, the bridge is ready to open for public use. Installed are ladders and elevated walkways which will allow engineers and state department of transportation staff to reach any part of the structure to conduct periodic inspections. A ceremony will be held by the mayor to mark the opening. A wonder of engineering will soon serve the community.