What is a Beam Bridge?

A beam bridge is the oldest and simplest form of a bridge. Beam bridges are often used for relatively short distances as some beam bridges have no pillar support. These beams are usually supported by an abutment or pier at each end. However, this doesn’t mean that beam bridges cannot be utilised for long distances, this just means that a continuous line of beam bridges must be connected together with pillars.

The length of a beam bridge is dependent on a number of factors, including the beam material and weight. In order to increase the beam weight capacity, the bridge material needs to become thicker. However, as the span of the bridge increases, it is possible that the bridge may begin to bend as a result of the increased beam weight.

The beam bridge can be formed anywhere from forests to construction worksites, using simple materials such as logs, wood planks or stone slabs. This type of bridge is not easily moved as it is reinforced into the ground, so it is generally more convenient to create new beam bridges than moving existing beam bridges.

What are the Materials Needed to Create a Beam Bridge?

With technological advancements, the science behind different materials has also increased. In past years, beam bridges were constructed from solid materials such as wood and stone. However, modern beam bridges are now using materials that are not only stronger, but also lightweight and durable, ensuring they have good characteristics for continued use.

These new and improved materials include reformulated concrete, pre-stressed materials and composite materials that are reinforced with fibre and steel. Pre-stressed concrete is the most viable option as it can not only withstand and endure significant strain, but is also inexpensive. Steel rods are also implemented in the concrete to resist the tensile loads.

In order to increase load-bearing capacities, beam bridge piers should be held together using either concrete, stone or steel. However, if a beam bridge is being created for lighter loads, non-reinforced concrete and wood are acceptable for use.

5 Steps to Build a Beam Bridge

Step 1 – Survey the bridge location

Before doing any construction, make sure you study the location. This is essential as it not only determines the materials, but also how much material is needed. Measure the area to ensure you have a good working area. For example, if you are building over a stream, consider the water level and where the foundation should be positioned.

Step 2 – Build the beam bridge foundation

In order to set the beams in place, foundation blocks need to be placed or built at either end. This ensures that the beams have a stable platform to be secure. If the land needs to be cleared to make way for these foundations, an excavator or skid steer loader would be your best option.

Step 3 – Secure beams to foundation

Firstly, rest the ends of the beams on top of the foundation blocks and ensure they are parallel and the right length. When securing beams to the foundation, use metal straps or drilling concrete screws through the beams. However, if the beams are built into the ground, concrete can also secure the beams in place.

Step 4 – Add planks to the bridge

For people or vehicles to cross the bridge, wooden planks need to be placed across the horizontal beams to create a sturdy bridge decking. This also ensures that no serious injuries occur from the use of beam bridges. If the beam bridge is too long to carry the woods planks from point A to point B, hiring a crane can speed up the process of moving the wood planks onto the beam bridge.

Step 5 – Test the weight capacity

Before the bridge can be used, its maximum weight capacity needs to be checked so you can guarantee safe transits across the bridge. This can be tested by using appropriate weighing methods such as static performance load testing. This test allows workers to see where the bridge is weakest and make adjustments accordingly.

Hire Earthmoving with iSeekplant today!

There you have it – a full guide on what a beam bridge is, the materials needed and a step-by-step guide on how to build a beam bridge. If you need to hire earthmoving equipment for your next beam bridge build, head over to iseekplant for all your equipment hire and supplier needs.

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