Beam bridges are the oldest and simplest type of bridge. It has some advantages and disadvantages over other types of bridges. In the following section, all the pros and cons of beam bridges are described.
Advantages of Beam Bridges
There are several advantages to beam bridges. They are easy to construct, less costly than other types of bridges, and can be built quickly. Additionally, the roadway of a beam bridge can be easily maintained and repaired.
The followings are the major advantages of beam bridges:
- A beam rests simply on the supports.
- The effects of thermal expansion and movements of the ground are easily sustained.
- A beam could also be engineered removed from the ultimate position and raised fleetly into place with the least disruption of traffic or navigation.
- Beam bridges are easy to construct.
- In comparison to other bridge types, beam bridges are less costly.
- Beam bridges can be built quickly.
- The roadway of a beam bridge can be easily maintained and repaired.
- The design of a beam bridge can be adapted to support multiple lanes of traffic, sidewalks, and railings.
- A beam bridge can be constructed using a variety of materials, such as wood, concrete, and steel.
Disadvantages of Beam Bridges
The followings are the disadvantages of beam bridges:
- Beam Bridges have a limited span and do not allow large boats or vehicles to pass underneath.
- Mostly heavy boat traffic or large ships cannot pass underneath.
- It is not suitable for very long spans.
- It is not suitable for very heavy loads.
- It is not suitable for high-speed traffic.
- It is not suitable for very tall vehicles.
- It is not suitable for very wide vehicles.
- Mostly the maintenance of the Beam Bridge is expensive.