Truss Arch Bridge

A truss arch bridge combines the elements of the truss bridge and the arch bridge. The actual resolution of forces will depend upon the design. If no horizontal thrusting forces are generated this becomes an arch-shaped truss, essentially a bent beam – see moon bridge for an example. If horizontal thrust is generated but the apex of the arch is a pin joint, this is termed a three-hinged arch - see The Iron Bridge for an example. If no hinge exists at the apex, it will normally be a two-hinged arch. In the Iron Bridge shown below, the structure of each frame emulates the kind of structure that previously had been made of wood. Such a wood structure uses closely fitted beams pinned together, so the members within the frames are not free to move relative to one another, as they are in a pin-jointed truss structure that allows rotation at the pin joint. Such rigid structures (which impose bending stresses upon the elements) were further developed in the 20th century as the Vierendeel truss.

  • The Iron Bridge, a three-hinged arch and the first metal bridge

  • Garabit Viaduct, a thrust arch type employing a catenary shape

  • The steel Stoney Creek Bridge carries the Canadian Pacific Railway

  • Illustration of a Truss arch bridge (1917)

Read more about Truss Arch Bridge:  Some Bridges of This Type

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