Home Civil Engineering Learn 15 Different Types of Bridges

Types of Bridges: Know Definition, Different Types, Diagrams &

Importance
Last Updated on Sep 13, 2024

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Bridges are important engineering structures that have connected communities, facilitated transportation,
and allowed passage over obstacles for centuries. There are 15 types of bridges, each designed to address
specific needs and challenges, whether it's spanning a river, crossing a deep gorge, or supporting heavy
loads. These bridge types range from ancient, time-tested designs to modern, innovative structures,
reflecting the evolution of engineering and architectural techniques.

In this article, we have discussed the different types of bridges. This topic is important for all the upcoming
civil engineering examinations, including SSC JE CE and RRB JE Civil.

What is a Bridge?
A bridge is a remarkable engineering construction that serves as a critical link, connecting two points
separated by natural obstacles like rivers, valleys, or chasms. These structures are meticulously designed to
withstand the forces of gravity, environmental factors, and varying loads, enabling safe passage for
vehicles, trains, pedestrians, and more. The world of bridges encompasses a wide array of designs, each
tailored to its specific environment and function, embodying the ingenuity and innovation of human
engineering. Whether ancient stone arches or cutting-edge cable-stayed spans, bridges remain essential in
facilitating transportation and fostering connections between communities.

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Types of Bridges
The various types of bridges are:

Suspension bridge
Arch bridge
Truss bridge
Beam bridge
Cable-stayed bridge
Cantilever bridge
Moveable bridge
Girder bridge
Tied-arch bridge
Trestle bridge
Rigid-frame bridge
Extradosed bridge
Viaduct
Covered bridge
Clapper bridge

Suspension Bridge

A suspension bridge is a marvel of engineering that features tall towers, strong cables, and a suspended
roadway. These bridges are renowned for their ability to span vast distances, making them ideal for
crossing wide bodies of water or deep gorges. Notable examples include the Golden Gate Bridge and the
Akashi Kaiky ō Bridge, which rank among the world's most iconic structures.

Fig 1: Suspension bridge

Arch Bridge
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Arch bridges have a classic and enduring design characterised by their graceful, curved shape. These
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 rivers and valleys. The Roman aqueducts and the Sydney Harbour Bridge exemplify the timelessness and
efficacy of this bridge type.

Fig 2: Arch bridge

Truss Bridge

Truss bridges are renowned for their sturdy framework, which consists of a series of interconnected
triangles. The geometric design provides exceptional strength, making truss bridges ideal for both road
and railway crossings. Many historic and modern truss bridges, such as the Forth Bridge and the Hell Gate
Bridge, continue to serve as vital transportation links.

Fig 3: Truss bridge

Beam Bridge

Simple yet effective, beam bridges consist of horizontal beams supported by piers. These bridges are often
used for shorter spans and are common on roadways and in urban areas. While not as visually striking as
some other bridge types, beam bridges are essential components of transportation infrastructure.

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Beam bridge
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 Cable-stayed Bridge

Cable-stayed bridges are striking structures with tall towers and cables fanning out to support the
roadway. This design offers a balance of aesthetics and functionality. Well-known cable-stayed bridges
include the Millau Viaduct and the Russky Bridge, showcasing innovative engineering and architectural
excellence.

Fig 5: Cable-stayed bridge

Cantilever Bridge

Cantilever bridges employ horizontal beams anchored at one end, projecting over the void. These bridges
often meet in the middle, creating a central span. Notable examples include the Forth Bridge and the
Quebec Bridge, which demonstrate the impressive reach of cantilever structures.

Fig 6: Cantilever bridge

Moveable Bridge

Moveable bridges are engineering wonders designed to accommodate maritime traffic. They feature
mechanisms that allow sections of the bridge to be lifted, swung, or rotated to create openings for passing
ships. Drawbridges, bascule bridges, and swing bridges fall into this category, enhancing navigation in
waterways.

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 Fig 7: Moveable bridge

Girder Bridge

Girder bridges consist of horizontal beams, or girders, supported by piers or abutments. These
straightforward yet robust structures find application in both road and rail networks, serving as vital
connections in transportation systems.

Fig 8: Girder bridge

Tied-arch Bridge

Tied-arch bridges combine the strength of arches with tensioned cables. The arch is anchored to
abutments, while the cables provide added support. The Fremont Bridge in Portland and the Natchez-
Vidalia Bridge exemplify this elegant design.

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Fig 9: Tied-arch bridge
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 Trestle Bridge

Fig 10: Trestle bridge

Trestle bridges feature a series of short, widely spaced piers or trestles that support the superstructure.
These bridges are used in various settings, including railways, allowing them to traverse uneven terrain
while minimising environmental impact.

Rigid-frame Bridge

Rigid-frame bridges feature rigid connections between the columns and beams. This design provides
stability and strength, making these bridges suitable for highway overpasses and urban intersections.

Fig 11: Rigid-frame bridge

Extradosed Bridge

Extradosed bridges are a hybrid of cable-stayed and girder bridges, employing shorter, more numerous
cables and slender towers. They offer a balance between aesthetics and structural efficiency.

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 Fig 12: Extradosed bridge

Viaduct

Viaducts are elevated bridges typically composed of a series of spans and arches, used to carry roads or
railways over valleys, rivers, or other obstructions. They often display impressive architectural features and
are found in urban landscapes.

Fig 13: Viaduct

Covered Bridge

Covered bridges, sometimes referred to as "kissing bridges," are known for their protective wooden
enclosures. Historically, they shielded bridges from the elements, and today, they evoke a sense of
nostalgia often found in rural settings.

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 Clapper Bridge

Clapper bridges are a charming and ancient bridge type consisting of a series of stone slabs laid across
piers or rocks. They are simple yet effective crossings, often found in rural or historic locations, such as
Dartmoor in the United Kingdom.

Fig 15: Clapper bridge

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Conclusion
This blog listed all the different types of bridges. This topic is important for your upcoming exams. If you
are preparing for State and Central level Civil examinations and other diploma-level exams, get enrolled in
AE/JE Civil Coaching on the Testbook App.

Also, attempt a wide range of SSC JE Civil Mock Tests and SSC JE Civil Previous Year Papers available on the
Testbook App itself.

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Types of Bridges FAQs

What is the best type of bridge?

What is the most common type of the bridge?

What are the types of bridges?

What is the main advantage of bridges?

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