FIFTY-YEAR DEVELOPMENT: CONSTRUCTION OF STEEL ARCH BRIDGES

During the past 50 years there have been major changes in the engineering, fabrication, and construction of steel arch bridges. The laser surveying instruments, high-strength steels, numerically controlled drilling, welding, and high-strength bolts have all had tremendous impact on field construction. The methods of erecting have also vastly improved the efficiency, time, and safety of bridge construction. Erection methods vary from supporting the arch by falsework or wire rope tiebacks to jacking large heavy spans several hundred feet above river level. Fifty years ago, falsework was made of square timber formed into bents supported by wooden piles. Today, it is made from light reusable steel sections. Large floating derricks are used to lift heavy pieces, often eliminating the need for travelers mounted on the bridge.

• Corporate Authors:

  American Society of Civil Engineers

  345 East 47th Street
  New York, NY  United States  10017-2398
• Authors:
  • Hollingsworth, W F
• Publication Date: 1975-3

Media Info

• Features: Appendices; Figures; Photos; References;
• Pagination: p. 85-103
• Serial:
  • Journal of the Construction Division
  • Volume: 101
  • Issue Number: C01

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Arch bridges; Bolts; Bridge engineering; Construction management; Falsework; High strength steel; Lasers; Metal bridges; Steel bridges; Surveying instruments
• Old TRIS Terms: High strength bolts
• Subject Areas: Construction; Highways;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00084686
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: ASCE 11187 Proc Paper
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 2 1975 12:00AM