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 bridge' design. If no horizontal thrusting forces are generated, this becomes an arch-shaped truss which is 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 as a three-hinged arch. 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.

Truss arch bridge
New River Gorge Bridge, in Fayetteville, West Virginia
AncestorTruss bridge, arch bridge
RelatedNone
DescendantThrough arch bridge
CarriesPedestrians, vehicles, light rail, heavy rail
Span rangeMedium
Materialstructural steel
MovableNo
Design effortMedium
Falsework requiredSometimes, but long spans are often built using temporary cantilevers

Some bridges of this type

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