Tropical Construction Bridge Styles
When
planning and designing your timber vehicular bridge or timber pedestrian bridge
there are many different styles of construction. Each different style of
construction is design and best suited for addressing a specific issue. These
issues can range from environmental concerns, construction issues, engineering
problems, or clients needs. Below we address the three different styles of
timber bridge construction and the best application of this style.
Pile
Supported
Pile
supported timber bridges are build upon timber piles that are driven into the
ground. These piles are placed in regularly repeating intervals typically 12
feet in length. These intervals are able to be adjusted to meet each specific
project’s needs. A pile supported bridge can be design and built at almost any
elevation. A pile supported bridge can be installed in almost any location.
Free Span
Free span
bridges are composed of laminated beams that are pressed together to create
timber members that are capable of reaching distances in excess of 100 feet for
pedestrian bridges and in excess of 60 feet for vehicular bridges. This
provides a solution to situations where we cannot install pile. Laminated beams
are able to be custom built to meet the client’s needs and often provide for a
cost savings over pile supported structures.
Combination
Bridges
Combination
bridges would be a partially pile supported bridge with a free span section.
This is an ideal solution for river crossings that need ample space for boat
traffic to pass underneath. Combination bridges offer a unique design able to
solve many common issues associated with bridge construction.
A Tropical team member can best assess your specific
project needs and recommend the most appropriate design. Each bridge design
offers different advantages that will be discussed with you to ensure the most
efficient style is implemented. And all of our structural designs are approved
by a licensed structural engineer in the state of installation.
