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Under (and Over) the Sea: Traveling with a Bridge Tunnel

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Have you ever been driving on a bridge you’re not familiar with and then, all of a sudden, the road starts to lead you underwater? You may feel nervous, amazed, and even confused at first, but bridge tunnels are safe and incredibly effective transportation. Here is an overview of a bridge tunnel, its purpose, and some famous examples from around the world.

What is a Bridge Tunnel?

Bridge tunnels are structures that feature both a bridge section and at least one underwater tunnel section. The purpose of these structures is to allow for the continuous and simultaneous flow of vehicle and boat traffic.

An alternate solution is a moveable bridge, which is a bridge that can move or lift in order to accommodate the passage of boats and ships. There are many types of movable bridges that have been in use for hundreds of years, including drawbridges, vertical-lift bridges, and swing (pivot) bridges.

The drawback is that moveable bridge traffic can hold up traffic and aggravate commuters, especially near bodies of water where shipping is common.

Enter the bridge tunnel. This engineering marvel makes it so that all traffic can continue to flow; boats, trucks, cars, and cargo ships can all use the same transportation space in peace without disrupting one another.

Famous Bridge Tunnels

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel

Did you know that all of the bridge tunnels in the United States are located in the state of Virginia? Perhaps the most famous of these Virginian marvels is the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. This 60-year-old structure spans 17.6 miles in total length, from shore to shore. This tunnel consists mostly of bridge roads, but because of the importance of shipping in the bay, two tunnel sections were built into the main shipping channel crossings.

Each tunnel is over one mile long and easily allows for the passing of ferries and cargo ships without disrupting the flow of traffic. At the time of its completion in 1964, it was named “one of the seven engineering wonders of the modern world.”

The Hampton Roads and Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnels

Prior to the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia boasted the world’s first-ever bridge tunnel to finish construction. The Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel, which connects Hampton and Newport News to Norfolk and Virginia Beach, was completed in 1957 and measures 3.5 miles in length.

The third and final bridge tunnel located in the United States is the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel, which connects the Virginia Peninsula cities of Newport News and Hampton to Suffolk and Chesapeake. This was completed in 1992 and measures 4.6 miles in length.

These two bridge tunnels have significantly improved the flow and amount of tourism traffic between all of these high-volume areas, which benefits residents and visitors alike.

The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge

In 2018, the world’s longest bridge tunnel completed construction and opened for public transportation in China. The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau bridge measures a total of 34 miles in length, connecting Hong Kong to the Pearl River Delta in Guangdong province and the city of Macau. By significantly reducing travel time between these three regions, Chinese government officials are optimistic about the economic benefits and tourism booms for all areas.

The Way of the Future?

Whether traveling by land or sea, commuting over a bridge tunnel can save a lot of traffic jams and headaches. As more and more cities see the potential benefits of these structures, perhaps these architectural wonders will be the way of the future. If a body of water is long enough and the traffic in the area is heavy enough to warrant building a bridge tunnel, it could help commuters, residents, and visitors all have a better travel experience.

Built to Last

With more than 80 years of bridge-building expertise and as an AISC-recognized supplier, we know what it takes to complete the task, no matter the difficulty. We use only the best resources to build strong, dependable bridges. We take pride in offering a huge selection of prefabricated bridge designs that we are certain will perfectly suit the demands of your particular project.

Contact us today to start your next project, or check out our premier BridgeScope tool to get a head start on the process.

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How to Combat Bridge Corrosion

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Whether you are dealing with a giant suspension, cable-stayed, or truss bridge, your structure is sensitive to corrosion over time. Many things can cause corrosion, including natural elements like fire and water damage. But over time, corrosion will reduce the strength of a bridge’s structural elements, lower the load-bearing capacity, and increase fatigue on the structure.

To help maximize the strength and integrity of your bridge structure, here are several practical ways to combat bridge corrosion.

Regular Inspections

This one is self-explanatory but still the most reliable method to avoid bridge corrosion. Inspect bridges regularly and take note of any warning signs of corrosive damage. This will allow you to take early action and prevent catastrophic damage before it happens.

Also, make sure not to limit inspections only to the primary structural elements. Check things like the utility infrastructure elements that are suspended beneath bridges: hangers and seals are often affected by corrosive substances and can cause significant damage to the overall structure if left unattended.

Repairs

During your regular inspections, you may encounter regular signs of wear and tear on the structure. Getting a head start on making these repairs can prevent larger, more serious structural damages from accumulating in the future. For example, make sure to repair cracks and potholes as soon as possible; this will help prevent fluids from penetrating the roadbed and damaging the substructure.

Here are a couple of key fixes to consider:

  • Apply an epoxy coating to the reinforced steel embedded within the concrete beams and pillars. While this may not completely halt the corrosion process, it will definitely slow it down between inspections.
  • Use less permeable concrete when making repairs to the bridge infrastructure. This can help prevent water from reaching and rusting the internal metal substructures.
  • Apply a sealant between the bridge deck and the upper driving surface. It will prevent seepage and pooling of corrosive solutions on and around the bridge’s metal components.

Galvanization

Many builders utilize the hot-dip galvanizing technique when constructing bridges. After properly cleaning and preparing the steel, it is submerged in 85% pure molten zinc, which reacts with the iron steel to create a strong, bonded coating.

There are many benefits to galvanizing. Mainly, galvanized steel does not require regular maintenance; in fact, galvanized steel prevents corrosion for up to 100 years in many cases. In fact, a galvanized bridge can reduce regular bridge maintenance by 50%.

Heating systems

If a bridge exists in a climate with extreme winter weather conditions, installing specialized heating systems can help deter the buildup of ice and snow. Using these systems can reduce the use of more harmful chemical solutions and require a large upfront investment, but they can pay off over time, especially in cold, snowy climates. This can also cut into the cost of workers needed to apply melting solutions, clear snow, and perform additional bridge maintenance and repairs.

Built to Last

As industry leaders and an AISC-recognized supplier, we guarantee the highest quality steel for every project. We build durable, reliable bridges quickly, using only the best tools and techniques available. Our pride comes from our wide variety of prefabricated bridge designs, which we know will easily meet your unique project needs.

Contact us for a free estimate, or use our industry-leading Bridgescope tool to begin planning your project now!

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How an Inspection Robot Can Improve Bridge Safety

Many areas of the United States have bridge infrastructure that is in terrible condition.

Regular inspections are essential to identify potential issues and prevent catastrophic failures that can endanger human lives and cause significant economic damage. And now, with the use of inspection robots, the process can be safer, faster, and more cost-effective than traditional methods.

These specialized robots use advanced technologies such as sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to detect and analyze bridge defects that may have otherwise been skipped over.

By using this technology, bridge owners and operators can better assess potential issues and take the necessary proactive measures to address them.

The Current State of Our Bridges

According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, there are over 617,000 bridges in the United States, with 42% being 50 years old or older and nearing the end of their structural lives.

Bridges are aging, and 7.5% of all bridges in the United States are structurally deficient, meaning that all or part of the bridge is unsound.

Because of this, it’s necessary to inspect bridges more frequently to look for wear and tear that could cause safety issues and partial failure or total collapse. However, the federal government and state regulations for bridge inspections are all different.

The Benefit of an Inspection Robot

Inspection robots can be a substitute for humans in potentially dangerous environments, such as those where there is a fire or combustible gas. They can also contain high-definition and infrared cameras, microphones, and gas detectors.

Aside from replacing humans in hazardous situations, inspection robots provide far more mobility than humans, with the ability to move around tight spaces or climb up walls. This allows engineers to make more informed decisions quickly.

Robots can be controlled manually from a distance or programmed to complete certain tasks and instructions. These features create an effective tool for engineers.

As technology advances, these robots will only become more capable and versatile, opening up new possibilities for their use within the construction industry.

Drone Inspections

In recent years, drones have become more than just a hobby or a novelty. They are now effective tools that can assist humans in various industries, including construction and engineering.

Much like other inspection robots, drones save time and money and significantly reduce the risk of accidents by minimizing the need for workers to climb scaffolding or high areas.

They can also perform more complex inspections as technology improves. As we collect and analyze more data, the information we get from drone inspections will help engineers perform better bridge maintenance and make better design decisions. This improves the safety and longevity of our country’s infrastructure.

Traditional bridge inspection methods, alongside inspection robots, employ cutting-edge tools and equipment for hands-on inspections. But as technology improves, drones and robots’ abilities will continue to grow. This will make them more important for a wider range of construction and engineering tasks.

Growing into the Future with U.S. Bridge

Technology and robotics are changing construction and engineering forever. U.S. Bridge uses cutting-edge technology to evolve, like our exclusive BridgeScope tool.

Contact us to get your project started!

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U.S. Bridge Connects Marion and Wyandot County

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In 2021, U.S. Bridge designed, fabricated, and installed a bridge between Wyandot County and Marion County. This rural part of Route 68 straddles Salt Rock Township in Marion County and Pitt Township in Wyandot County and runs for over 20 miles. This project, in partnership with R&I Construction, involved installing abutments behind the former bridge and using a steel truss bridge.

U.S. Bridge is proud to be a part of the improvements that Marion and Wyandot county have made to continue their dedication to the safety and longevity of the transportation network they’ve been entrusted to serve.

Designing a New Bridge

The former bridge provided a narrow crossing of only 70.25 feet over the Little Sandusky River and a bridge width of merely 15.3 feet. We were able to modernize and increase the bridge’s span by ten feet, bringing it to 80 feet and increasing the width to 24 feet. Because of this, the shallow crossing was able to use the same truss structure type as the former bridge.

We also built very simple stub abutments on two rows of piles, which are long, shaft-like elements that transfer force through brittle soil and provide support. These piles went 33 feet below the bottom of the footings of the bridge. The slope behind the abutments was held in place by straight wing walls that fit within the 40-foot right of way.

Installing the New Bridge

After building the bridge, J-clips fastened heavy-gauge corrugated steel floor planks to the stringer beams. Next, the bridge’s grooves were filled to form a smooth surface. In addition, continuous stainless steel plates served as flashing along the bridge’s edge.

Meanwhile, Type 3 waterproofing provides durable water shedding during damp conditions. Eventually, after completing the asphalt paving, we put a twin tubular steel bridge railing in place and constructed bridge terminal assemblies immediately off the bridge to meet ODOT standards.

U.S. Bridge: Providing Durability and Dependability

Throughout our 80-year history, U.S. Bridge has established a reputation for constructing bridges that stand the test of time. As a company, we have always operated on a set of core values and principles that have guided us since day one. We ensure that all materials used in our bridges are of the highest grade.

Contact us today to launch your next project, or use our exclusive BridgeScope tool to jumpstart the process.

 

 

 

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Replacing the Showman Arch Bridge in Newark, Ohio

This past month, the City of Newark, Ohio, shut down the deteriorating Showman Arch Bridge on Cherry Valley Road without notice, disrupting traffic flows and angering much of the community. As a result, the city plans to reopen the crossing with a temporary 160-foot-span bridge.

The Newark, Ohio, City Council approved the necessary resolutions to provide American Rescue Plan funds and waive bids to cover the cost of the 1.5 million dollar emergency project. The temporary solution will sit above the current bridge, resting upon foundations at either end. This will allow travel to resume without further damaging the aging bridge.

U.S. Bridge is responsible for constructing the temporary bridge and will install it at the site in sections starting in early 2023. Upon installation, traffic will resume on the temporary bridge without load limits.

City Engineer Brian Morehead told the press the closure wasn’t due to visible changes in the bridge. Rather, a federal official closed the bridge after a separate evaluation.

A New Bridge for Newark, Ohio

Initially, the 189-year-old bridge carried water, not traffic, with a connecting roadway that potentially houses ancient pottery and arrowheads. Morehead says that digging for artifacts from Native Americans shouldn’t slow down the project. 

A new three-span steel girder bridge will connect Thornwood Crossing to Thornwood Drive. Reddington Road, Thornwood Drive, and a relocated River Road will connect to the bike path with a new roundabout.

The Showman Arch Bridge stood firm despite showing cracks and other signs of decay when ODOT and city engineers started monitoring the bridge 33 years ago. 

Once the permanent structure is up in 2025, the temporary bridge will be taken down and reserved for later construction. Meanwhile, the Showman Arch Bridge will stay open strictly for pedestrian use.

Addressing the Congestion

Unfortunately, the sudden closure of the bridge in Newark, Ohio, has caused backlash and traffic congestion. This presents a serious issue because the absence of a bridge has slowed response times from the fire station on West Main Street and made it difficult for medics to enter Licking Memorial Hospital.

U.S. Bridge understands the community’s frustration, and we are dedicated to providing the City of Newark with a fluid path to ease congestion. The final plans envision a semi-truck-friendly economic development corridor from Ohio 16 to Interstate 70.

U.S. Bridge: Serving Ohio and the World

Based out of Cambridge, Ohio, U.S. Bridge is proud to serve all of the U.S. and the rest of the world. Over 80 years ago, we laid the foundation for providing dependable service and products.

Contact us today to find out what our expert team of professionals can do for you. Or use our exclusive BridgeScope tool to get your project started today! 

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Global Accelerated Bridge Construction

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In 2005, U.S. Bridge began to expand and provide accelerated bridge construction in international markets. Because of our ability to assemble our bridges here in the United States, we can containerize and transport them anywhere in the world. We’re proud to say we’ve completed over 10,000 projects worldwide.

Recently, we sent a group of delegates to the Dominican Republic, including our International Sales Manager, Jonathan Benítez, P.E. He sat down with the Dominican press to discuss our construction process and provide insight on what makes U.S. Bridge a premier bridge fabricator. 

We look forward to collaborating with the Dominican Republic to help bring a better quality of life to communities isolated by rivers or other factors. We seek solutions, not just projects, making us stand out from other companies promoting their commercial activity within the Dominican Republic.

Providing Accelerated Bridge Construction Worldwide

We are happy to supply our accelerated bridge construction to any community needing a steel bridge. This concept involves a series of innovative techniques such as Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM) and detailed renderings at each of the stages of the bridge project, from its design to its manufacturing and construction methods. Initially, this idea started in the United States as a way to restore damaged infrastructure more quickly. 

Since then, accelerated bridge construction has become common in projects to replace deteriorated bridges and construct new ones. In the end, the objective of these techniques is to lower the project’s total cost.

When we propose a project, we offer a wide array of prefabricated bridge types to meet your project needs. However, we want to collaborate with local companies to stimulate the local economy.

Battling the Climate

Many of our clients in Latin America face the challenges of flooding. In 2020, two tropical storms slammed into Guatemala, causing landslides and flooding, collapsing a bridge within the rural city of Gualán, Zacapa. 

Our accelerated bridge construction was able to aid in the community’s quick recovery by keeping them connected with our high-quality Liberty Bridge. In addition, when Puerto Rico was hit by Hurricane Maria, we were quick to supply five separate bridges throughout the island within six weeks, which all stood firm during Hurricane Fiona’s recent appearance.

Building with Steel

Aside from accelerated bridge construction, there are many advantages to building bridges with steel, as opposed to other materials such as concrete. Weight directly affects the design of a bridge. Not only does steel weigh significantly less than concrete, but it also has a higher strength-to-weight ratio. This results in less maintenance and upkeep over time, making for a much more efficient and effective bridge.

Another important characteristic of steel structures is that they can achieve longer spans than concrete structures and require fewer intermediate supports. This benefits the environment because the fewer intermediate supports within a channel, the less interference in the waterway.

Furthermore, steel allows for galvanization, enabling our bridges to withstand time and minimize maintenance. Galvanized steel in particular eliminates corrosion for up to 100 years. In addition, we also offer a 35-year warranty on all galvanized steel bridges.

Connecting the World with U.S. Bridge

U.S. Bridge is a proud leader in manufacturing and engineering. We design, engineer, manufacture, and galvanize our solutions according to AISC standards. Our history and experience demonstrate our ability to build solid, long-lasting bridges.

Contact us today for a free quote or get a jumpstart on your project using BridgeScope.

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U.S. Bridge is Ready to Respond to Yellowstone Flooding

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The recent events pertaining to the Yellowstone flooding have left all of us heartbroken. The devastating flooding that took place last month is the result of an extreme onset of spring rains combined with melting snow rushing down the Montana mountains. Our hearts shatter as we witness the flooding wipe away livelihoods, roadways, and bridges.

As the disaster continues to take its toll on the area, it’s impossible to fathom the devastation from afar. We simply cannot sit and watch, knowing well we can help. We are ready at a moment’s notice. Our speed and reliability speak for themselves, but our personal compassion compels us to offer our services to help mend the area.

The Flooding of Yellowstone

In June 2022, Yellowstone closed its doors and evacuated more than 10,000 visitors. Floods, washed-out roads, crumbling bridges, and large boulders falling on roadways occurred within the northwest of Wyoming, southwest Montana, and eastern Idaho.

The flooding of Yellowstone was something “rarely or never seen before across many area rivers and streams,” according to the National Weather Service. Tropical moisture poured down on the Pacific Northwest before dumping several inches of rain on northern Wyoming and southern Montana. This mixed with a warm spell that sped up the melting of a hefty snowpack leading to the catastrophic flooding.

Though the Yellowstone flooding has left us speechless, we are ready to provide what we can to bring Yellowstone and the surrounding area back to its natural, beautiful self. This wouldn’t be anything new for U.S. Bridge, as back in 2020 a pair of tropical storms decimated a town in Guatemala leaving a trail of destruction.

We were then chosen to supply the community with our reliable Liberty Bridge to replace the one that was destroyed during the storm. And we’re proud of the speed and recovery of those results.

Designed for Quick Assembly and Durability

Our Liberty Bridge sports a truss-style design and is extremely versatile. This sturdy bridge is fast and durable, making it perfect for emergency installation and also as a permanent structure. Designed with only the highest quality of materials, the Liberty Bridge is able to withstand the test of time. Not to mention, it also offers a beautiful aesthetic with its use of prefabricated panels and modular design. So, it’s no surprise that this bridge is often incorporated in many emergency situations.

Back in 2018, Hurricane Maria destroyed much of Puerto Rico, prompting us to supply a total of five separate Liberty Bridges to the territory. This opportunity to restitch the island took a quick six weeks to complete. Our quick turnaround to provide a bridge to any population in need gives those who live in the area the peace of mind that normality will return sooner than later.

U.S. Bridge: A Trusted Brand

It’s our goal to provide the best quality bridges anywhere in the world. We proudly produce our bridges in Ohio and ship them to any community or location in need of a bridge. This is something we here at U.S. Bridge take to heart. We love that our work is able to restore and bring communities closer together.

We are an AISC-recognized supplier and we guarantee the best quality steel for any job. Contact us today for a free quote. Or start planning your project today with our premier Bridgescope tool!

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World Architecture Day 2021

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Not many people would think of architecture as a vital part of society but it is! It changes the world we live in so many ways. And that’s why it has its own day of celebration. Architecture Day is about recognizing its importance and the work of architects around the world.

What is Architecture Day

Created in 1985 by the International Union of Architects (UIA), World Architecture Day is an international day of architectural recognition and appreciation.

Architects, engineers, developers, and others in the industry come together in various events around the world to showcase their work, collaborate with others, and discuss current issues. Each year is a new theme to highlight areas of concern within the industry or other important topics. This year’s theme, “clean environment for a healthy world”, is inspired by the events of Covid-19.

The Power of Architecture

There are many architectural designs you’ve probably heard of like the Parthenon or Stonehenge. And although buildings and other structures give us a form of protection, how else does it impact our society?

Initially, the climate, location, and resources available dictated the shape and style of a building. However, as time progressed and technology advanced architecture began to evolve as also a representation of culture. It reflects a country’s society, values, and history. A great example of this is Russia’s famous Chapel of Saint Basil. For example, the color and design of the chapel actually hold religious meaning and represent the Heavenly City. Additionally, the nine dome-shaped structures symbolize the assault on the city of Kazan which occurred years before its construction.

Not only can it reflect a country’s past but it is also essential to planning the future. Architecture has the ability to sustain population growth and tackle a number of social problems. In fact, many psychologists are studying how architecture can affect people‘s brains. Research actually shows that the layout and color of a building contribute towards occupant health, mood, and productivity. However, blank concrete buildings can increase stress levels and negativity. To combat this, many new architectural designs include nature or greenery to positively stimulate the brain as well as the environment.

Architecture is more than just a building. It plays an essential role in a country’s society and greatly affects the people around it. Maybe next time you look at architecture you’ll perceive it as more than just a structure but as a work of art. 

Build with U.S. Bridge

At U.S. Bridge we understand the important role bridges play in a country’s economics and success. That’s why you want to work with a well-trusted company with advanced engineering and manufacturing skills. We’re here to help you from the beginning of your project until the end. Get a quote from us for your next bridge project or learn more about our designs.

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The Best Practices in Bridge Management

Proper bridge construction management is necessary to keep a project organized and completed within the budget and schedule. However, managing such a large project such as a bridge’s construction may seem daunting, so we’ve listed some of the best practices for maximizing your chance of success.

Determine the Scope of the Project

Like in any other industry, proper management is essential to a construction project’s success. What’s the best way to pre-plan your project and effectively manage it? Well, a great solution is by working with key stakeholders to determine an accurate scope of the project.

Understanding the scope is one of the first steps in the successful management of bridge construction. This means taking the time to create a thorough breakdown of what’s required for the project such as:

  • Identifying what is within or out of scope.
  • Noting the work required, the team performing the work, and the schedule of its completion.
  • Include any important elements that may impact the outcome.
  • Determining the constraints that might limit or negatively impact the outcome of the project such as resources, procurement issues, timing, etc.

Once you work out the scope, you can now move on to planning project decisions such as deck construction, railing criteria, live loads, etc.

Start Creating Plans and Strategies Early

Your planning process is essentially how you will achieve the goals set out within the scope. The reality is that while a project of the highest quality scope, at the lowest price, done in the least amount of time is ideal, it is difficult to achieve. Hence, a strategy-based process is necessary to achieve your overall objective.

Understanding your project’s success metrics is key to streamlining the decision-making process. In other words, determine project components such as feasibility, procurement, construction, close-out, and more to effectively work towards accomplishing the goal. In addition, as the project progresses you should continually refer to your detailed scope to determine if there are any changes and how they will impact the project. Recognizing and implementing adjustments in a timely manner will help reduce delays and risks.

This means start planning long before the actual construction begins, and continue revising until the end of the project. The design, pre-construction, and procurement stages of a construction project all require meticulous planning — and may need to be revised as the project progresses.

A properly planned out and scheduled project is a well-managed and successful bridge project.

Ensure Quality Construction

The quality of the construction is a big part of its success and reflects your skills in bridge management. Thus, in your planning process, you want to consider options that will create lasting effects. Consider utilizing durability solutions such as special enhancement and treatments. Galvanized or weathered steel is a popular option to slow the process of deterioration.

Not only should you be deciding what materials and methods to use, but who the manufacturer should be. Supply chain management helps you stay organized and save money. This means careful management of suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, contractors, and designers.

Pay attention to the order and delivery of materials on-site, the selection of contractors, their involvement in design and planning, and methods used to reduce invoice and transaction costs. In addition, reinforce collaborative methods with those involved in the project to keep the system flowing. This will encourage proper accountability, support, and incentives from supply chain partners.

Starting a project with these practices in mind minimizes disputes and delays. Not to mention, it improves safety and business practices and develops better project relationships.

Trust us to Build your Bridge

Our 80+ years working with various companies all across the world has provided us with the skills and experience needed for even the most challenging projects. We are confident that our engineering and manufacturing expertise will fit the needs of your project. Contact us on our website to learn more about how you can collaborate with us or fill out our exclusive BridgeScope tool for a quick quote.

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A Globally Booming Bridge Construction Market

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With the sudden outburst of COVID-19 last year, many individuals were concerned about how it would affect the economy. Despite the negative effects of the pandemic, studies indicate a steady rise in the global bridge construction market.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the bridge construction market and what factors affect its growth.

The Construction Market

The construction market consists of sales made in the construction industry such as construction services and goods by organizations, sole traders, and partnerships that construct buildings or engineering projects (e.g., highways and utility systems). While the market primarily consists of the construction of buildings or other projects, it also includes the process and materials necessary for preparing new construction sites.

These materials are obtained from both domestic and international suppliers such as manufacturers and wholesale trade operators. The service and goods provided by this market include construction, civil engineering, specialty trade contracting, and other residential, non-residential, and engineering modes.

What Affects the Market?

A large market such as the construction market has several variables that come together to influence the industry. However, there are always key factors that contribute more than others.

The availability of raw materials, the technology for extracting and processing raw materials, government policies, and increased sustainability focus all greatly affect the construction market. A great example of this is demonstrated through the pandemic as many companies struggled to procure their materials from their usual international suppliers. COVID-19 created a significant impact on the industry that will greatly affect but not hamper the market moving forward.

Technology is an important factor that is pushing change in nearly every industry. Its influence over the construction industry is illustrated with more drone usage and 3D printing than ever before. Not to mention, new innovative methods of bridge construction such as modular and prefabricated designs.

The Projected Global Boom of the Bridge Construction Market

In 2019, the global bridge construction market was valued at $908.0 billion and projected to reach $1,212.6 billion by 2027. Thus registering a CAGR of 4.6% from 2020 to 2027.  The strong growth of this market is attributed to an increase in investments, government initiatives, and global economic growth.

The global urban population is expected to rise by 2050. Thus, fueling the demand for bridge construction and other transport infrastructure. Furthermore, the surge in the standard of living, particularly in developing countries is anticipated to drive market growth.

In addition, technological advancements are expected to encourage the growth of the market. These improvements in equipment and systems are intended to reduce the time and cost involved in bridge construction. This economic and urbanization boom is expected to fuel the expansion of the railway networks throughout the globe. Thus boosting the growth of the bridge construction market.

U.S. Bridge

Here at U.S. Bridge, we pride ourselves as leaders in the bridge construction industry. We’ve been engineering and manufacturing bridges for decades with services worldwide.

We understand that a bridge project is a major investment. That’s why we designed an effortless process for you to build a bridge that will last generations. Please contact us for a free quote or use our exclusive bridge design tool Bridge Scope for a quick five-minute scope. Together, we’ll build a better future for America’s infrastructure.

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U.S. Bridge Receives ISO 9001:2015 Certification for Quality Management System

ISO 9001:2015 Certification

The scope of U.S. Bridge’s ISO 9001:2015 Certification includes the engineering, Material Procurement, and Fabrication of Steel Bridges, Structural Steel Railing, and Miscellaneous Steel Products.

CAMBRIDGE, Ohio — Jan. 28, 2021 — U.S. Bridge, a leader in the engineering, manufacturing and construction of steel bridges globally, today announced that the Company has earned ISO 9001:2015 certification for its quality management system.

Certified ISO 9001:2015 Company

U.S. Bridge, a leader in the engineering, manufacturing and construction of steel bridges globally, today announced that the company has earned ISO 9001:2015 certification for its quality management system.

ISO 9001:2015 is a globally-recognized quality management standard developed and published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The certification provides a model for companies of all types and sizes to use in building an effective quality management system. The standard is based on several quality management principles, including having a strong customer focus, involvement of high-level company management, an outlined process-based approach, and ongoing improvement of the aforementioned approach.

U.S. Bridge ISO 9001:2015 certificate (#C2021-00162) was issued by Perry Johnson Registrars, an internationally-accredited management systems certification body. The scope of U.S. Bridge’s certification includes the engineering, Material Procurement, and Fabrication of: Steel Bridges, Structural Steel Railing, and Miscellaneous Steel Products. Activities at U.S. Bridge’s corporate headquarters (201 Wheeling Avenue, Cambridge, OH 43725 United States) are included in the scope of certification.

“Every bridge that U.S. Bridge manufactures is designed and built to the highest quality standards,” said U.S. Bridge’s CEO Dan Rogovin. “Our ISO 9001:2015 certification is confirmation of our demonstrated and ongoing commitment to reliability, quality assurance, and safety.”

For more information on the entire product line of U.S. Bridge, visit their website: usbridge.com.

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How to Design a Bridge Without Experience: Bridge Scope

How to Design a Bridge

Designing a bridge takes great engineering skills and attention to detail. Every component of the bridge design process is significant and greatly affects the rest of the project. Clearly, learning how to design a bridge can seem like an overwhelming process with lots to figure out.

However, U.S. Bridged developed a tool to simplify bridge design, even if you’ve never designed a bridge. It’s Bridge Scope, our exclusive virtual design tool to design a bridge.

Bridge Scope makes it easy to customize your bridge to the specifications you need, down to the last detail.

 

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How to Design a Bridge

When it comes to bridge design there are many components to consider. Where is the location of the bridge? Will there be heavy traffic and commercial trucks? Or is the location in a rural area?

The environment and the purpose of the bridge will determine the type of materials and style of the bridge. In addition to the type and shape, the design of the deck and railing are important as well.

Engineers need to consider the weather and other environmental factors that contribute to corrosion. It may be difficult to choose the right materials and design that works best for your project without making a big dent in your budget. That’s why it’s important to build with a trusted company that will create a bridge that fits your needs.

Through the combination of our experience and knowledge, we’ve created a simple and time-efficient way for you to design your bridge: Bridge Scope.

Bridge Scope: A Bridge Design Tool

Our exclusive Bridge Scope tool allows you to design your bridge in just a few simple steps.

How to use Bridge Scope

  1. Select a bridge type from the drop-down menu. Then select a bridge-style that best fits your project. Each bridge type has specific styles available. For example, the styles available for truss bridges are Cambridge, Cambridge flat, Viking, and Seneca bridge.
  2. Next, choose the deck material. The material of the deck is dependent on the bridge type.
  3. Select the bridge railing. Decide if you require an independent rail attached to the deck or a W-Beam guide rail attached to the truss.
  4. Lastly, input the span length and width of your bridge project. Additionally, you can select a corrosion protective plan and pick a live load.

Shortly after submitting, you will receive a detailed PDF packet of your project’s design and specifications. You can then contact U.S. Bridge to proceed forward with your bridge and make any adjustments desired.

It’s as simple as that. In under five minutes, users will have created their preliminary bridge design with a trusted steel bridge builder.

Building with U.S. Bridge

Our team of engineering experts has been building bridges for decades. U.S. Bridge has completed more than 10,000 bridge projects and has experience working in more than 50 countries. Our team of engineering experts has been building bridges for decades of many different styles and designs.

All of our bridge designs are custom made for each client and their specific project. To find out more about our experienced team and excellent bridges, please contact U.S. Bridge today.

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Why We Use Steel Galvanizing for Bridges

Hot Dip Galvanized

A new bridge is a piece of infrastructure that will serve communities and transportation for decades. They must be built to last with the strongest and most durable materials. With hot-dip galvanizing, U.S. Bridge builds bridges that minimize maintenance and long-term durability regardless of the environment.

We’ve been galvanizing bridges since 1987, and we were the first to hot-dip galvanize an entire welded truss bridge. By bonding zinc to our U.S.-manufactured steel, we’re building long-lasting, reliable bridges with a sustainable process.

The Galvanizing Process

To galvanize steel, thorough cleaning of the steel is absolutely necessary. This is because zinc will only react with clean steel during the hot-dip process. Areas that are not perfectly clean will interfere with the process.

Before the Hot-Dip

Before hot-dip galvanizing, the surface must be prepared. This process includes degreasing, pickling, and fluxing.

Degreasing is the first step in cleansing the steel. It remotes dirt, oils, and organic residue. Next is pickling, which removes the iron oxides and scales from the steel’s surface to expose a bare area for galvanizing. Finally is the fluxing process, which prepares the steel for the hot-dip phase by applying a protective saline layer.

Hot-Dip Galvanizing

After the cleaning process, the steel is immersed in a kettle bath of 85% pure molten zinc at 830° F. The zinc reacts with the iron steel to form metallurgically-bonded coating. Once the steel reaches the bath temperature, the bonding is complete.

Once the steel cools down, an inspection verifies that it conforms to specifications. This includes a visual inspection and a magnetic thickness gauge that measures the coating.

Galvanizing Improves Bridge Life Cycle

The cost of hot-dip galvanized steel is roughly the same as painting a bridge. While a quality paint coat must be touched up, zinc-coated steel does not need maintenance over the bridge’s life.

However, the galvanized steel eliminates corrosion for up to 100 years in many cases. According to one study, the future maintenance of bridges can be reduced by 50% with galvanizing. With galvanized steel, the average service life is 8.5% longer. In fact, at U.S. Bridge, we have a 35-year warranty on our galvanized steel beam bridges — we’re that confident in lasting quality of galvanization.

Environmentally-Friendly

There are several environmental advantages to hot-dip galvanizing, beyond just the financial and durability impact. The key to sustainable construction of bridges is to continually lower the environmental impact of producing products. This is possible with zinc and steel.

Both zinc and steel are two naturally occurring, abundant elements. Ore — which steel is composed of — is the fourth-most abundant element on Earth. Zinc is 24th. Both are infinitely recyclable without the loss of physical or chemical properties. These materials can be used over and over without compromising their integrity.

With less maintenance, galvanizing will also prevent potentially harming environments during maintenance and traffic delays.

Build Sustainable Bridges with U.S. Bridge

In summary, hot-dip galvanizing steel is about the savings on the life-cycle of your bridge and the environmental benefits. With decades of experience in hot-dip galvanizing, we guarantee the highest level of quality in our steel bridge parts.

U.S. Bridge has been serving communities for more than 80 years, building bridges that withstand time. Our bridge experts will advise you on the best option for your bridge. Contact us today and let’s talk about how we can make your bridge project a long-lasting success.

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The Future of 3D Printed Bridges and Construction

This image serves as a header image for the blog post

In a decade, 3D printing has already innovated several industries, from medical implants to engineering, to aviation. The technology is achieving the unthinkable in construction, from 3D printing a house in under 24 hours to creating a prosthetic hand. After developments in other industries, 3D printed bridges are next.

The 3D printing buzz continues to gain steam as more industries learn the benefits of the technology. The industry is projected to grow to $35.6 billion by 2024. Much of the 3D printing industry’s boom is in construction. Although the industry is growing, it’s a slow process to begin large-scale constructions.

While 3D printing isn’t used in every day bridge-building, it has future potential. Opportunities for 3D printed bridges will continue to grow as the industry expands.

The First 3D Printed Bridges

Throughout the world, big steps in 3D bridge printing have changed the industry within the last five years. These designs are using fewer materials to reduce environmental impact. Surely these earliest 3D printed bridges will continue to inspire future development as the 3D printing industry grows.

The Netherlands’ 3D Printed Bridges

The first-ever 3D-printed bridge was installed in the Netherlands in 2018. Eindhoven University of Technology designed the 26-foot bridge, which integrated concrete with steel wires and took three months to construct.

“The steel cable is the equivalent of the reinforcement mesh used in conventional concrete,” the University’s statement said. “It handles the tensile stress because concrete cannot deal with tensile stress adequately.”

In a country known for using cycling as a mode of transportation, the bridge serves cyclists primarily.

In Amsterdam, MX3D led by The Alan Turing Institute developed the world’s first 3D-printed steel bridge. Pedestrians and cyclists will use the bridge to cross the Oudezijds Achterburgwal canal in central Amsterdam.

The bridge is the largest 3D printed metal structure in the world, tested and completed in October of 2018. The bridge also collects data on the structure’s strain, displacement, and vibration as it’s in use. These factors, combined with temperature and environment, can indicate the bridge’s health and monitor when it may need further inspection.

As a first in engineering, the completion of the multi-disciplinary bridge took years. But the approach has a future in the construction and management of bridges. Notably, the goal for MX3D is to expand the applications of multi-axis 3D printing. Thus, 3D printing has a chance to re-engineer bridge building in the future.

China’s 3D Printed Bridges

In 2019, a group of architects installed the world’s longest 3D printed bridge. The team from the Tsinghua University School of Architecture in Beijing built the 86-foot-long bridge and installed it in Shanghai.

The team produced the bridge in 450 hours using two robotic arms. Even with robots, the University said it was a third of the cost of a standard bridge of equal size. It uses similar systems to the Amsterdam bridge to track stress and strain, so its condition can be monitored.

Although it is the longest, the bridge is not entirely 3D printed, as the structure underneath the concrete is metal. Another 15-meter 3D printed bridge was installed in January of 2019 in Shanghai as well with a similar purpose.

The U.S. Marines’ 3D Printed Bridges

The U.S. Marines are 3D printing functional concrete footbridges to reduce work time. The 3D printing started in January of 2019 with efforts from the 1st Marine Logistics Group in California. They combined gravel and other heavy materials to reduce work from what would be six people to eventually just one.

Subsequently, the Marine Corps plans to expand these 3D printing strategies with its investments in 3D printers. In contrast to the previous bridges, these types of concrete structures don’t need to last as long, and can quickly create a temporary shelter.

Benefits of 3D printed Construction

With tight schedules and budgets, construction companies are always looking for new ways to reach their objective. Though large-scale projects cannot be fully dependent on 3D printing, the technology offers several potential improvements to the construction sector to increase efficiency.

There are several benefits, but certainly, the industry will face challenges in its growth as well. While 3D printed bridges are still relatively new, the benefits of construction have been clear. Here are just a few.

Reduce Waste

Waste from construction is running rampant, with more than 1 billion tons of waste each year. In fact, it’s estimated to double by 2025. And it’s only going to get worse. 3D printing is a layer by layer process. Thus, the material that is used is what is necessary to create a structure. This can create a near-zero waste in building new bridges.

Custom Design

Teams of engineers and architects can create designs that may not otherwise be possible in construction. 3D printing makes designs truly indistinguishable and unique. In addition, 3D printing allows for more innovation in the design of commercial construction.

Quicker Construction

The quickness of these machines in building homes should be an indication of what they can do with bridges. For instance, machines have built simple shelters in a matter of hours. In the case of bridges, technology could take more time, but it will be faster and more accurate without human error.

Risk Reduction

With construction done by printing machines, health and safety risks can be reduced. To put it another way, an adaption of 3D printing could absolutely lead to lives being saved.

Build your Bridge with U.S. Bridge

Although 3D bridge printing may not be here yet, U.S. Bridge has several solutions for you.

U.S. Bridge focuses on strengthening infrastructure and bridge repair to connect communities. Our bridges are long-lasting and safe, making transportation possible for people everywhere. Our bridge engineers meet the safety needs and design requirements to ensure durable quality prefabricated bridges. Get a quote online or visit our website for more information from our bridge experts.

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Hot-Dip Galvanized Steel vs. Weathering Steel: What’s The Right Choice?

Hot Dip Galvanized Steel Vs. Weathering Steel What's The Right Choice

Steel has long played a key role in American construction efforts. Not only is steel lighter in weight than many other building materials on the market, but it also earns points for durability, affordability, and environmental friendliness. Still, bridge builders may struggle with whether to use more traditional weathering steel or increasingly popular hot-dip galvanized steel. Read on to discover how these options stack up.Hot Dip Galvanized Steel Vs. Weathering Steel What's The Right Choice

Benefits and Drawbacks of Weathering Steel

Long a favorite among bridge builders, weathering steel offers numerous advantages over other building types. Strong and attractive, this material rusts in a way that provides protection against the elements. Builders refer to this as “useful corrosion.”

Still, the news about weathering steel isn’t all positive. Progressively corroding, weathering steel can deteriorate faster if moisture is present. To compensate for this loss of mass and strength, builders may need to use thicker sections of steel from the start. Additionally, salt air and humidity can damage weathering steel, resulting in accelerated corrosion.

Benefits of Hot-Dipped Galvanized Steel

Formed by dipping bare steel in molten zinc, hot-dip galvanized steel is a popular choice in bridge construction. Featuring the strength of weathering steel, hot-dip galvanized steel offers additional benefits, too. Barrier and cathodic protection mean that this material resists corrosion. As a result, this option requires less long-term maintenance than weathering steel. Additionally, hot-dip galvanized steel maintains its structure despite exposure to UV rays, snow, water, and soil and is 100 percent recyclable.

Trust U.S. Bridge With All Your Building Needs

As a bridge building leader, U.S. Bridge brings more than 80 years of engineering and manufacturing expertise to the table. We’re passionate about constructing bridges that withstand time and the elements while making use of materials that are safe for the environment. Ready to learn more about our products and services? Call our steel bridge experts today or contact us online for info.

 

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Steel Bridges & Their Impact on the Environment

Steel Bridges & Their Impact on the Environment

The United States has been relying on steel for generations, and with good reason. Lighter in weight than many building materials, steel is affordable and durable, making it a great option for constructing everything from buildings to bridges. However, at U.S. Bridge, we especially appreciate the environmental benefits of steel. Read on to learn about the big benefits associated with building bridges from steel.

Steel Is Recyclable

The environmental benefits of steel include the fact that the material can be recycled with ease. Because of steel’s unique metallurgic properties, it doesn’t degrade over time like other materials. So, the product can be melted down and recycled for other purposes, while adding less waste. In fact, steel is currently the most recycled material on Earth.

Steel Has Economic Benefits

Another reason that steel is a great building material — and an environmentally friendly one — is that it has economic benefits. Builders can put steel constructions and bridges together quickly and affordably because steel weighs less than other materials. The ability to use less expensive equipment and lifts means money is saved in the long run. Municipal governments and communities can then use these funds for other purposes, like environmental conservation.

Steel Is Durable

It’s hard to save money when you’re constantly having to repair the same buildings or bridges. One of the best reasons to use steel for these projects is that it lasts for decades. This means you won’t have to spend valuable taxpayer dollars replacing the same structures again and again. Additionally, steel is a strong material that’s unlikely to be damaged by inclement weather conditions like storms and hurricanes. Steel even holds up well in the event of an earthquake. Because steel components require less maintenance, you can save money on both supplies and labor. The fewer resources needed to maintain steel, the fewer resources required from the environment.

Learn More About Steel Environmental Benefits

At U.S. Bridge, we create a wide array of bridges for communities throughout the nation. Relying on over 80 years of experience in engineering and manufacturing bridges, we take care to ensure our products stand the test of time. To learn more about the environmental benefits of steel, or what we can do for you, call today or contact us online.

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The Economic Benefits of Bridge Building

The Economic Benefits Of Bridge Building

Most of us don’t notice much about the bridges and roads that connect our cities and states. However, we would certainly notice if we woke up one day and they weren’t there. Bridges play a crucial role in various aspects of modern life, enabling us to get to work or school and contributing to the country’s economic development. This, of course, is something the American Society of Civil Engineers knows well. Every four years, this all-important group releases a bridge report card, assessing how these structures are holding up. Read on to learn more about bridge economic impact and what we can do to protect these structures moving forward.

Aiding in Infrastructure

Bridge economic impact starts with the way they support the transport of people and goods. Along with allowing companies to ship materials, bridges enable consumers to travel to shops and malls and visit new cities as tourists. When a bridge goes down, the surrounding area experiences a halt in economic activity, as people can no longer purchase goods and services with the same ease.

Supporting the Local Economy

Bridges also support the local economy, thanks to wages paid to construction workers and repair crews. Even the most well-designed bridges require regular cleaning and maintenance. Bridge workers then give this money back to the local community by paying taxes and purchasing local goods and services.

Connecting Communities

Bridge economic impact issues go beyond simple cash flow. Bridges connect people in different communities, allowing them to interact for work or play. This capacity is especially essential for areas where one town has an abundance of raw materials and another has a labor force in need of work. In this way, both people and communities can support one another.

What’s to Come for Our Nation’s Bridges

In assessing the country’s bridges, the American Society of Civil Engineers determined that the average bridge age is rising. As result, the United States will need to spend $120 billion or more to complete the necessary repairs and get all the bridges up to code. That’s where companies like U.S. Bridge can help.

Contact Us for a Consultation

As a leader in bridge design and manufacture, U.S. Bridge helps communities create safe, longer-lasting bridges. Plus, we build many of our bridges using prefabricated panels and assemble them in modules to expedite construction. For more about our services, call today or contact us online.

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Bridge Floor and Deck Construction

Those who aren’t familiar with bridge building might think of decks as parts of a ship or the area in the backyard where grills are kept. However, in the industry, we know “deck” is a term for the driving surface of a bridge. Whether constructed from concrete, wood, steel, or open grating, decks that form the driving surface of a bridge need to be strong enough for traffic to cross safely. At U.S. Bridge, we provide a full range of sustainable bridge floor and deck solutions to clients throughout the world. Read on to learn more about the types of decks we offer:

Concrete Deck Slab

When it comes to bridge floor and deck products, the concrete deck slab is one of the most popular. Typically between 7 and 9 inches thick, this deck has two layers of steel reinforcing bars to provide strength and durability.

Asphalt

For this deck type, corrugated steel planks, 3, 5 or 7 gauge, are attached to the stringers of the bridge and become a structural component of the structure.. By galvanizing these planks, the flooring is protected against corrosion. With an asphalt overlay, these types of decks provide a long-lasting, economical, driving surface.

Open Grid Steel Deck

If weight constraints are an issue, open grid steel decking is a wonderful option for a bridge floor. It is characterized by whether the grid is filled, or partially-filled with concrete. If concrete is included, a metal pan or form is included near the base or at mid-height of the grid to support the concrete while it cures.

Precast Concrete Panels

One of the most efficient deck types, precast concrete panels can be constructed quickly and easily. Designed and manufactured off site, these panels can be installed one day and driven over the next. Non-shrink grout is mixed and poured in batches on site.

Nail-Laminated Timber Bridge Floor

Ideal for more rustic locations around the country, these timber decks utilize pressure treated lumber to protect against the elements. Additionally, buyers can opt to cover the deck with asphalt if they choose.

Start Building Your Bridge Today

As a leader in bridge floor and bridge flooring solutions, U.S. Bridge engineers and manufactures steel bridges for a wide range of private and public organizations. You can trust us to create a safe, durable bridge that will stand the test of time. To learn more about what we do, call today or contact us for an online bridge consultation.

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Hurricane Season Precautions

Do you live along the coast? If so, taking hurricane season precautions is essential. In fact, the National Hurricane Center calls individuals to prepare for hurricane risks and act on those preparations if they want to stay safe. As a leader in emergency bridge construction, U.S. Bridge is passionate about helping home and business owners protect both themselves and their property in the event of a severe storm. Here are our tips for staying safe, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.

Stock Up on Supplies

One of the best hurricane season precautions you can take is creating an emergency stockpile of supplies. Along with canned foods and bottled water, it is a good idea to set aside batteries, flashlights, warm clothing, and basic first aid supplies. For best results, keep an emergency stash of any medications your family uses regularly, such as painkillers and insulin.

Prepare Your Property

Whether you live on the coast or just keep a vacation home there, it is important to take steps to protect your property from hurricane damage. Start by securing windows and doors with hurricane shutters; you don’t want broken glass flying into your living room. Additionally, you should have a professional inspect your roof. Check for rust and loose anchoring on a metal roof, and have loose roof shingles or tiles nailed down prior to storm season.

Know How to Evacuate

Most people don’t like the idea of abandoning their homes or businesses during a storm. However, if the local government recommends evacuation, it’s best to follow that advice. For best results, don’t wait until the last minute to leave town. Instead, listen for emergency alerts and make a plan for getting elderly family members, kids, and pets out while it’s safe.

Is Your Town Prepared for an Emergency?

At U.S. Bridge, we understand how devastating flooding can be and how important it is to get help fast during a storm. Our Liberty Bridge is made from prefabricated panels, so it can be assembled quickly and easily in an emergency. Ideal for both permanent and temporary purposes, the Liberty Bridge offers an effective way of getting people, animals, and vehicles to safety.  

Contact U.S. Bridge Today

At U.S. Bridge, every product we manufacture reflects our extraordinary attention to detail and a firm commitment to quality. To learn more about our emergency bridges, or what other hurricane season precautions you can take, call today or contact our team today.

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Steel vs. Concrete White Paper

Analyzing the life cycle costs of steel vs. concrete bridges is of utmost importance to U.S. Bridge and the infrastructure industry in general. Aside from sustainability and social responsibility, U.S. Bridge is dedicated to using the best materials for the job. Depending on the scope of work and bridge design, the choice between steel or concrete could have a long-lasting impact on the sustainability of the structure.

U.S. Bridge asked Michael G. Barker Ph.D., a professor at the University of Wyoming, to draft a white paper regarding the Life Cycle Costs Analysis (LCCA) of bridges. Of particular interest was the use of hot-dip galvanized steel vs. concrete. The study determined that using HDG steel reduces capital costs by 8.5 percent. Below is the executive summary of the report that provides a good snapshot of the report and its findings. You can download the entire white paper here.

Executive Summary

Since the early 1990s, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has promoted the consideration of Life Cycle Costs Analysis (LCCA) in the design and engineering of bridges. LCCA determines the “true cost” of bridge alternatives considering the time-value of money. The Life Cycle Cost analyses employed in this study uses the Perpetual Present Value Cost (PPVC) of bridge alternatives for an equivalent comparison between the alternatives.

Over the years, the author has worked with state departments of transportation and local county engineers on effective and economical bridge construction. A frequent question that arises during meetings is the difference in Life Cycle Costs between steel and concrete girder bridges. Both the concrete industry and the steel industry cite various anecdotal advantages above the other for the Life Cycle Costs over the life of the bridge. There has historically been a healthy competition between material types for new bridge construction. However, there is industry and owner confusion on how the different types of bridges compare on a Life Cycle Cost basis.

Steel vs. Concrete Bridge Analysis

This study developed useful owner information on historical Life Cycle Costs for typical steel and concrete state bridges in Pennsylvania. Typical bridges defined in the study are:

  • Concrete decks supported by steel rolled beams
  • Steel plate girders
  • Precast concrete boxes
  • Precast concrete beams

PennDOT historical records for bridges built between 1960 and 2010 were used to develop the Life Cycle Cost study database. Initial and maintenance costs considered include total project costs (more than just superstructure) as recorded in the PennDOT records. The PennDOT database used for the Life Cycle Cost analyses only includes a subset of the total bridge inventory. Missing cost and date data for a majority of the individual bridges made total inventory impossible. The database consists of 1,186 state bridges out of 6,587 (18 percent of the eligible inventory) built between 1960 and 2010.

The initial costs, Life Cycle Costs, and future costs of the 1,186 bridges in the database are examined with respect to:

  • Variability in bridge type
  • Bridge length
  • Number of spans
  • Bridge life

Protective coating systems were also used to examine steel bridges. The results must be taken into context since the results only represent the bridges that made it into the database. The database is not as comprehensive or desirable for drawing conclusions. The reader must decide how to interpret the tables and figures showing comparisons of initial costs, Perpetual Present Value Costs, maintenance and future costs, and bridge life.  

Report Conclusion Summary

A conclusion that can be drawn is that all the types of bridges are fairly competitive in both Initial Costs and Perpetual Present Value Costs. The average initial costs vary from $174 per square feet to $226 square feet. The average Perpetual Present Value Costs vary between $218 per square feet (Prestressed I Beam) and $278 per square feet (Prestressed Adjacent Box). The lowest average bridge life was 73 years (Prestressed I Beam) and the longest was 82 years (Steel I Beam). The coefficient of variation (standard deviation/mean) of the PPVC was approximately 20 percent, which is considerably high. With the relatively small differences in the PPVC averages, given the dispersion of the PPVC costs (standard deviation), any of the bridge types may have the least Perpetual Present Value Cost for a given project.

Chance for Further Study

This research was limited to a subset of PennDOT bridges. However, the analyses demonstrate the potential benefits of LCC analysis for bridge construction and management. A study of a more comprehensive database of bridges on the initial costs, Life Cycle Costs and future costs of different types of bridges over a diverse set of circumstances would be very useful for bridge owners and managers. A more comprehensive database would allow for a more accurate comparison of bridge types, design details, such as jointless decks, rebar coatings, steel protection systems, and other construction details.

For more information about this study, as well as the benefits of steel vs. concrete bridges, please contact U.S. Bridge today. You can also download the complete white paper here.

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