Steel is a highly advantageous material for use in bridge building and not only because of the qualities it offers once the bridge is complete but also the benefits that it provides the designer and the manufacture during the design and development stage. Minimal substructure costs, fast construction times, and good looks make this versatile and durable metal one of the most popular material choices for bridge building.
Strength
Steel bridges are incredibly strong. Steel itself has a high strength to weight ratio which means that strong and robust bridges can be built that are light enough to be transported and require only minimal substructure building. Its strength also means that a steel bridge can be used on difficult ground conditions, for example where there is very little room to bury the bottom of the bridge structure.
Quality
The metal is also graded and available in high quality. The grading of the metal means that it is possible to buy high quality steel and be sure that you are getting exactly the strength and quality of metal that is required. It is readily available from a number of sources and not only those sources in the UK.
Versatility And Flexibility
Despite its strength, steel is incredibly versatile. The steel can be bent and shaped before or during construction allowing steel bridges to be manufactured exactly to specification. It can also be altered and adapted once it has been erected as a bridge. Over time, many bridges become busier and they may need widening or strengthening to cope with the extra load put upon them. They can also be repaired in a similar fashion with minimal disruption and only a brief period where the bridge may not be able to be used.
Durability
Steel is durable and will commonly offer a life of over 100 years. When the metal used in steel bridges begins to corrode, this is easy to spot and the worn areas can be quickly replaced further extending the life of the steel bridge. Protective coating can protect against weather and other environmental issues too which is why steel bridges are used across the world in a variety of settings and environments.
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