arch bridge
A bridge whose deck is supported from below by one or more arches carrying loads toward their end supports.
An arch bridge is a bridge whose deck is supported from below by one or more arches reaching between the ends or between successive piers. Each arch directs the load of the deck onto its two sides, permitting the span. Arch bridges can be built of metal, masonry, concrete, or other materials.
The supporting arch carries load primarily in compression toward its ends. The form does not depend on using stone; metal and concrete arches can provide the same supporting arrangement.
One arch can cross a gap, or several arches can extend between successive piers. The curved supports beneath the deck distinguish this form from a simple beam bridge.
arch bridge Photos
Related definitions
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beam bridge
A bridge with a rigid spanning member resting on supports at both ends of each span. -
cable-stayed bridge
A bridge whose deck is supported by tense cables mounted on columns or in the surrounding landscape. -
cantilever bridge
A bridge whose spans project from anchoring piers instead of simply resting on supports at both ends. -
float bridge
A bridge whose span floats on water and is simply anchored to stabilization points. -
movable bridge
A bridge of any form which is capable of controlled movement in order to lift or remove its span. -
suspension bridge
A bridge whose span hangs from main cables anchored at its ends, commonly supported above the span by towers. -
trestle
A bridge or viaduct whose deck is carried by a continuous rigid support framework, often over many small spans. -
truss bridge
A bridge whose span is carried by a connected truss framework with members acting in tension and compression.