Tag Archive for: construction innovation

Top 10 Structural Steel Marvels Around the World

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October was last month, and the construction sector had a lot to celebrate with SteelDays (October 17–20) and World Architecture Day (October 2)! To commemorate the hard working people in the steel industry and the incredible structures they create, here is a list of the top 10 structural steel marvels around the world (in no particular order).

1. Burj Khalifa (Dubai, U.A.E)

Towering over the city of Dubai at 2,722 feet, the Burj Khalifa is by far the world’s tallest building. Builders used 31,400 metric tons of steel rebar to construct this skyscraper. Laid end to end, this amount of steel would be equivalent to one-quarter of the earth’s circumference.

The colossal tower has 163 floors, which include restaurants, apartments, and business suites. The building also boasts the tallest elevator shaft in the world, which is open to the public if you’re brave enough to ride to the top.

2. Empire State Building (New York, U.S.A)

Despite being surpassed in height by many other towers, the Empire State Building remains an internationally recognized landmark. Completed in 1931, during the height of the Great Depression, the Empire State Building remained the tallest building in the world for 41 years.

The building’s design changed 16 times during the planning and construction process, but thousands of workers constructed the building in a record one year and 45 days, using 60,000 tons of steel. This distinct skyscraper all but defines the famous New York City skyline.

3. Space Needle (Seattle, U.S.A)

This fun futuristic building in Seattle includes a disc-shaped observation deck that resembles an extraterrestrial ship. Built in 1962 for the World’s Fair and in celebration of the “Space Age”, the Space Needle’s tower measures 605 feet tall, and the saucer observation deck measures 130 feet in diameter.

It is one of the most photographed structures in the world and offers Seattle visitors a 360-degree panoramic view of the city and surrounding Olympic Mountains.

4. Petronas Twin Towers (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

These iconic steel structures are the tallest twin towers in the world. Measuring at 1,483 feet, the Petronas Twin Towers are connected by a bridge on the 41st floor and feature incredible views of the city.

While the towers are primarily made of concrete, the glass and stainless steel exteriors are arranged in a traditionally Islamic eight-pointed design, which has solidified the structure’s reputation as an iconic Malaysian monument.

5. Brooklyn Bridge (New York, U.S.A)

Located in New York City, connecting Brooklyn and Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge deserves a place among the top 10 as it was the very first steel-wire suspension bridge built in 1869.

The steel was so thick and the construction so challenging that it actually took a decade to complete. This bridge is one of the most recognizable bridges in the country and has become synonymous with its city of origin.

6. The Sydney Harbor Bridge (Sydney, Australia)

In addition to the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbor Bridge all but defines this Australian city. The Sydney Harbor Bridge is the largest steel arch bridge in the world, measuring 440 feet in height and 1,650 feet in length. The bridge officially opened in 1932 and features four railroad tracks, a highway, and two pedestrian walkways.

7. The Chrysler Building (New York, U.S.A)

New York City is simply full of structural steel icons! In addition to the Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building is a legendary landmark in the New York City skyline.

Measuring 1,046 feet, the Chrysler Building was the tallest building in the world in 1929; but the title was shortheld, as it was surpassed by the Empire State Building in 1931. While this building is not made entirely of steel, the iconic steel framework defines this structure and is easily recognizable as a staple of New York City architecture.

8. Sears Tower (Chicago, U.S.A)

The Willis Tower (formerly and commonly known as the Sears Tower) was built in Chicago for the Sears Roebuck and Company. During the height of its sales as the world’s largest retailer, Sears decided to build 3 million square feet of office space to accommodate its 13,000 employees.

The 1,454-foot-tall steel building attracts over a million tourists each year and has the world’s highest occupiable floor as well as the highest roof deck; in fact, you can see four states from the deck.

9. The Gateway Arch (St. Louis, U.S.A)

The tallest arch in the world, the Gateway Arch, sits on the west bank of the Mississippi River and reflects St. Louis’ role in the Westward Expansion of the United States during the 19th century.

Measuring at 630 feet in both height and width, this unique experience features two trams where visitors can take a short tram ride to the overlook at the top of the arch. The Museum of Westward Expansion is at the base of the arch and shows what life was like during the 1800s.

10. Beijing National Stadium (Beijing, China)

The Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird’s Nest, is the world’s largest steel structure. The design, which drew inspiration from traditional Chinese ceramics, had to be both impressive and useful in order to withstand Beijing’s earthquake-prone activity. Over 100,000 tons of steel were used to create this stadium, which now holds a capacity of 91,000 and can withstand a seismic magnitude of 8.

Leaders in Steel Manufacturing

Being an AISC-certified steel fabricator, we take great pride in using steel as our main material for manufacturing and construction. We’re known to offer our clients high-grade, durable materials perfect for various bridge projects and needs.

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

The Rise of Autonomous Construction Equipment

The age of technology is in full swing, but some people fear that artificial intelligence will take over too many existing jobs and put people out of work. Others, many industry leaders included, welcome the addition of AI in the workforce. The construction industry is no exception; the use of autonomous construction equipment is on the rise across the construction sector.

What is Autonomous Construction Equipment?

Autonomous construction equipment, such as dozers, excavators, load carriers, and haul trucks, are driverless machines that can be used to perform a variety of jobs on construction sites. These machines are typically controlled by an operator via a remote control program. This innovation has allowed many construction projects to be completed with minimal safety issues and maximum efficiency.

As the technology continues to develop and the usage benefits increase, these machines are becoming more common on job sites. Particularly, the use of autonomous vehicles (AV) has increased considerably over the past decade. In 2016, 20 states across the country introduced legislation concerning the use of AV. In 2017, that number grew to 33 states. In 2018, 15 of these states enacted a total of 18 bills regarding the use of AV.

What Does Autonomous Construction Equipment Mean for Jobs?

One of the biggest concerns around incorporating AV at construction sites is the potential negative impact on jobs. Will these vehicles take over jobs traditionally held by hard-working people and ultimately put those people out of work?

Fortunately, studies have shown that will not be the case! In fact, autonomous construction equipment could end up creating higher-paying jobs over time instead of taking them away. But this will not happen overnight, and the industry will end up changing dramatically. This transition over the next few decades is projected to raise the unemployment rate from 0.06% to 0.13%, but this indicates that jobs will be shifting in nature instead of being phased out.

For example, traditional operator roles have begun to transition to remote operators who will be operating the machinery with controllers. And these skills are in high demand!

Companies like Teleo are actively recruiting more operators and offering a position with “significantly better working conditions, making the job safer and more comfortable.” The remote control technology allows operators to safely run the machines from outside the cab, minimizing the risk of injury and providing them with a clear view of the work happening.

Times are definitely changing, and construction industry leaders are working hard to keep up. We can expect to see autonomous construction equipment on job sites across the country in a matter of decades. As such, learning the new skills of the trade will be essential to keeping up with the evolution of the industry.

Unlock Your Project’s Full Potential

We continually lead the way and incorporate the latest trends into our work. As 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 to meet your unique project needs.

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

5 Famous Bridges Around the World

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Some locations are defined by their distinct skylines or unique transportation systems. But many iconic cities also boast famous bridges that decorate their harbors. These examples stand across the world as great bridges that are the peak of architectural accomplishment.

These bridge designs have been adapted and enhanced in keeping with modern innovations, and each design serves a particular purpose for their city’s needs.

In appreciation for these marvels of human innovation, here are five of the world’s most famous bridges.

1. The Danyang-Kunshan – Suzhou, China

The Danyang-Kunshan bridge in China is the world’s longest bridge, measuring over 100 miles (164.8 kilometers) in length. This bridge connects Shanghai and Nanjing, two of the largest cities in China.

The bridge was completed within its original 4-year timeline, despite difficult terrain and canals, due in large part to the over 10,000 construction workers working on the project. The construction of the bridge cost $8.5 billion and was expertly designed to withstand the typhoons and earthquakes that frequent China’s landscape.

2. The Millau Viaduct – Creissels, France

The Millau Viaduct in France is the world’s tallest bridge, with a structural height of 336 meters (1,104 ft), which is taller than the Eiffel Tower! This cable-stayed bridge crosses the Gorge valley of the river Tarn, which has helped with traffic congestion by shortening the travel time between Clermont-Ferrand and Beziers. The Millau Viaduct is supported by multi-span cables placed in the middle and two thin, flexible columns that form a supportive and easily recognizable A-frame.

3. London Tower Bridge – London, UK

How many famous bridges actually have songs written about them? The London Tower Bridge is easily one of the most recognizable structures in the entire world. The two distinct towers connected by two parallel walkways have given this bridge its rightful place among the most iconic structures in history.

Located on London’s River Thames, this iconic engineering marvel was built with a combination of suspension and bascule structural elements. This bridge is called the London Tower Bridge not only for its distinct towers but also for its proximity to the historical royal prison, the Tower of London.

4. Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco, USA

This famous bridge can boast being in the opening sequence of several American television shows (Full House to name one!). The Golden Gate Bridge is an architectural staple for the city of San Francisco and is another easily recognizable bridge.

Joseph B. Strauss designed the 894,500-ton, iconic red bridge to connect the city of San Francisco and Marin County. The Golden Gate measures 4,200 feet in length, which makes it one of the longest suspension bridges in the world.

5. Rialto Bridge – Venice, Italy

The Rialto Bridge is, by far, the shortest bridge on this list; it only stretches roughly 104 feet across the narrow Grand Canal in Venice, Italy. In addition to being a popular tourist spot, this iconic arched bridge is one of the oldest bridges that remains perfectly intact and continually in use.

The Rialto Bridge was designed in the early 16th century by Antonio da Ponte, who took his inspiration from a bridge design that dated back to the 13th century. It has two inclined ramps, three walkways, and a span that allows for easy passing of boats through the iconic Venice canals.

These five famous bridges are only a few examples of architectural marvels, but there is no shortage of functional and stunning bridges all over the world. As time goes on, architects continue to improve bridge designs in order to meet the needs of an ever-changing world.

Building the Best with U.S. Bridge

As industry leaders and pioneers in several construction industry firsts, we know the importance of high-quality materials, ground-breaking designs, and reliable engineers. We’re proud to provide a comprehensive service that is easy to understand and time-efficient. That’s why we are the go-to for so many builders!

Working with us means working with professionals at every stage of the process. Get in touch with us now to begin the process, or use our exclusive Bridgescope tool for a jumpstart.

How Computational Design Helps the Bridge Industry

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Since being introduced to the workplace in the 1980s, computers have greatly altered the world including the construction industry. With time, computers and software began to improve the 2D drawing process, along with the ability to perform complex structural calculations and manual drafts, allowing users to complete designs much more efficiently.

Now in 2023, computational design is a new approach to the design process with far-reaching implications. It transforms the way we create by utilizing computer programs and human analysis for artificial intelligence.

What is Computational Design?

Computational design is a technique for creating things that use complex computer processing to optimize a set of predetermined parameters and procedures. Every action taken by a designer is then converted into machine code. Algorithms for generating design models or finishing design analyses are then produced in the software using this data along with factors unique to the current project.

Typically, a designer would utilize computer-aided design (CAD), Bridge Information Modelling (BrIM) software, and their own expertise and intuition to produce designs.

When used correctly, computational design can be a more effective and helpful way to boost productivity and make designs that are more reliable.

The Three Types of Computational Design

In computational design, there are three processes: parametric design, generative design, and algorithmic design. Each one has a different method in the design process.

  • Parametric design employs rules and criteria to provide a design that can be tweaked with little effort.
  • Generative design uses algorithms to provide several potential solutions for analysis.
  • Algorithmic design constructs a model of a design using algorithms.

What are the Benefits?

Once a designer gets through the learning curve associated with using computational design methods, they will be able to create better solutions specific to their project without performing redundant tasks and thus improving productivity and reducing project costs and time.

One of the biggest benefits of computational design is that learning how to code isn’t necessary to take advantage of this tool. Because of this, a whole new world of customization opens up for designers and engineers. While it’s true that there’s no universal program to meet all of our needs, we can build our own systems that can make our software fit our unique projects.

Computational Design in Bridge Construction

The use of computational design techniques in the bridge construction industry is rapidly expanding. With this technology, contractors can put in site-specific details and get suggestions for how to improve operations to boost productivity and cut costs.

While tools become more advanced and powerful, we need to improve our processes to keep up, and computational design allows bridge engineers and contractors to do that.

Leading the Way at U.S. Bridge

U.S. Bridge uses the best-emerging technologies to create strong and reliable bridges quickly. Over the course of our 80+ year history, we’ve built a reputation known for our wide variety of prefabricated types and unique designs that meet your project’s specifications.

Our exclusive BridgeScope tool gives the power to customize a bridge and get a head start on their project. Contact us today for a quote or any other bridge inquiries.
 

Preserving the Crossing at Croft Mill Road

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In 2020, U.S. Bridge answered the call when Miami County asked for a new bridge at Croft Mill Road. The existing 107-foot bridge was in dire need of a replacement. Apart from the 40-year-old bridge being well beyond the point of repair, the bridge faced a 25% reduced load capacity and a narrow width of 15′-6″.

Besides the typical challenges of hydraulic adequacy and road profile constraints, the crossing at Croft Mill Road crossing spans across Greenville Creek, which is part of Ohio’s State Scenic River. Because of this, the Croft Mill Road crossing has a history and setting that creates an attractive and noticeable structure which deemed it as a public investment. Therefore, it was our intention to keep it this way.

Widening and Galvanizing

When replacing the crossing at Croft Mill Road, we knew we had to modernize the bridge’s width. The width of the old structure was much too slim for contemporary standards. As a result, we increased the width from 15′-6″ to 28 feet.

Along with widening the path, the new bridge features hot-dipped galvanized steel trusses. Galvanization bonds zinc to steel, resulting in a much more rugged and reliable bridge. Galvanizing also eliminates corrosion for up to 100 years. We are so confident in our galvanizing process that we provide a 35-year warranty on our galvanized steel beam bridge.

Choosing the Right Bridge

Miami County considered several structure types for the project. Prestressed concrete box beams or I-beams were considered, but at the time of construction, manufacturing limits eliminated the possibility of utilizing prestressed concrete box beams.

In addition to manufacturing constraints, the depth of the beams required for a span length would greatly affect the structure’s waterway adequacy. Another option was to raise the roadway significantly, but either choice proved unfeasible. This is why Miami County decided to pursue the galvanized truss option for replacement.

Preserving the Property

Overall, the goal was not only to increase the span length over the former bridge but also to limit the impacts on Greenville Creek and the surrounding property on the north side of the bridge. When visiting the site today, it’s almost impossible to notice the changes to the property because of how well the bridge fits into the surrounding area. We are proud of this accomplishment but even more proud of keeping Ohio’s rich history alive and untarnished.

Build To Last with U.S. Bridge

U.S. Bridge has been building bridges that withstand time for over 80 years. It’s our guarantee to provide the highest level of quality steel in our bridges. Contact us today to get started on your next project, or get a headstart on the process using our exclusive BridgeScope tool today.

Top Emerging Technologies in Construction

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New and emerging technologies in construction develop at a rapid pace, making for some major changes in bridge design. They offer engineers more accurate models and detailed analyses of bridges and other projects, making for more advanced construction methods and design software.

Here’s a list of some of our favorite advanced technologies in construction that are great for bridge design and construction!

Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Building Information Modeling (BIM) pairs architects with engineers and construction professionals. This allows for more efficient communication and collaboration throughout the stages of construction. BIM enables engineers and designers to create 3D models that include a bounty of data, from the physical characteristics of a bridge to its functional features.

MIDAS CIM, developed by MIDAS IT, is the world’s first BrIM (Bridge Information Modeling). This is an extension of a BIM that can generate instant and accurate outcomes for all phases of a project. It also provides an integrated platform that connects modelers, constructors, drafters, designers, and engineers in one sole model. It’s currently the only solution that can effectively reduce inefficiencies in cost, time, and communication that a design change can disrupt.

New Construction Materials

With new construction materials, the landscape of bridge construction is vastly different than it was decades ago. One of the newest and best materials for bridge design is self-healing concrete. Traditional concrete is highly susceptible to cracking. However, new concrete mixtures can fill themselves with the help of limestone-producing bacteria that can occupy the cracks of concrete as they form. This will prevent costly damage brought on by unfixed cracks.

Besides concrete cracks, natural disasters are a crucial aspect of consideration for bridge designers. Hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes all impose irreversible damage to different structural elements of bridges. This is costly, however, the advent of new construction materials can skirt these costs.

One such material that is still under research is Superelastic Reinforcement, a shape memory alloy that can return to its original shape even after high stress.

Smart Construction

Smart technology is tremendously impacting the construction industry. This is because the likes of artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), drones, site robots, and other construction techniques are now the new norm at every construction site. Bridge construction is no exception. With the help of LiDAR sensors and GPS tracking, bridge engineers can identify the precise location where a bridge will stand, thus greatly minimizing errors.

With today’s technologies in construction, it’s possible to keep track of anything and everything happening on bridges. For example, Kuwait’s Sheikh Jaber al-Ahmad Al-Sabah Causeway included the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) in its bridge system. The system includes traffic cameras to track movements in the case of an emergency. It also incorporates systems for condition monitoring, and crack detection in its concrete and steel structures to provide overall structural health monitoring.

Computer-Aided Software

Bridge design gets more complicated and powerful as time goes on. Because of this, all-in-one computer-aided software programs are necessary. The software programs must be able to process complex modeling challenges and in-depth structural analyses.

Powerful software with a user-friendly user interface (UI) and intuitive modeling tools will allow bridge engineers to reduce modeling and analysis errors. This will provide a more accurate and reliable bridge design.

Build the Future with U.S. Bridge

U.S. Bridge uses the best materials and methods to create strong and reliable bridges quickly in the industry. We pride ourselves on our broad selection of prefabricated bridge styles and our signature bridge designs that can meet your project needs and leave a lasting impression.

Not to mention, our easy-to-use Bridgescope tool allows anyone to customize their bridge design and get a head start on their projects! Contact us today for any questions or bridge inquiries.

Exploring the Exposed Steel at Globe Life Field

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The new home of the Texas Rangers, Globe Life Field, is an architectural masterpiece. Since its opening in 2020, the field has become an icon of downtown Arlington. Given the size, scope, and vision of the entire project, it is no surprise that exposed steel was its chosen material.

Globe Life Field’s Architectural Magnificence

Construction for Globe Life Field began in 2017 and took 38 months to complete. Manhattan Construction Company served as a general contractor for the massive project which incorporates 34,000 tons of steel. 15,000 tons of steel were utilized below the roof and 19,000 tons were devoted to the stadium’s state-of-the-art retractable roof.

 In fact, this retractable roof is the largest of its kind and consists of two rail truss structures; the movable portion and the two fixed roofs.

The construction of the roof used various construction methods. Such as the ground-built 600-ton roof trusses hoisted into place using a 2,535-ton-capacity Manitowoc 31000— the largest crawler crane ever built in the United States. 

In addition, W&W Steel Erectors (WWSE) designed, fabricated, and installed temporary shoring towers, allowing for the long-span trusses and the entire roof to be built from the inside of the field.

Engineered with a Vision

The Texas Rangers pictured a field where fans were as close as possible, and architect HKS designed multiple seating options. All with unobstructed views of the field comprised of seven tiers vertically stacked and leading to seven unique front-row experiences.

“It’s all about intimacy and making the spectators part of the game,” said Greg Whittemore, principal at HKS.

Due to facing the challenge of supporting multiple elevated seating decks and suites above the lower bowl, the engineering group, Walter P Moore had to employ multi-story cantilevered steel trusses concealed within each suite divider. In doing so, it eliminated the need for columns as well as any chance of an obstructed view.

Steel’s Use in the Field

The flexibility of steel allowed for more than just concealing support beams, it also allowed for unique asymmetric steel Y-columns in order to make up for insufficient space. The initial concept envisioned connecting two adjacent suites. However, this would have been at the expense of disrupting the flow of the crowd between the suites.

Shruti Sharma, principal at Walter P Moore, explained that traditional straight columns would have punched right through the lower seating, leaving some seats unusable. By angling the support behind the lower bowl seating, the columns support the party suites from below. This ensures connectivity in the party suites and uses all seats in the lower bowl.

The exposed steel throughout the stadium is practical, but it also creates an incredible view. Walter P Moore and HKS intended for a steel support element for the east box truss at the south side of the venue. In doing so, it creates a signature sloping steel truss column that slices through the seating bowl, creating a dramatic structural feature.

The practicality of this amazing view helps reduce the span of the fixed roof truss to 520 ft from 650 ft.

The Need for Exposed Steel

Walter P Moore credits the flexibility of steel with making all of this possible. The strength, durability, and ductility of steel also give it a unique aesthetic, unlike any other modern ballpark. The exposed structural steel creates an impression that emulates historic ballparks from the past.

Flexibility and durability aren’t the only things that make steel so great for construction. Its lightweight nature makes it a versatile tool for various projects and its sustainable properties save companies thousands.

The Power of Steel at U.S. Bridge

The flexibility of steel proved itself throughout the construction of the ballpark, and in many more projects. As an AISC certified steel fabricator, we are proud to manufacture and build with steel as our primary medium. All of our bridges are manufactured with high-quality, long-lasting materials that are available in a variety of design and support types.

To find out more about U.S. Bridge and our work, please contact us today.

Technology in the Construction Industry: AI & Data

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When thinking about technology in the construction industry, it’s easy to picture electric vehicles, pneumatic drills, and other technological advancements in equipment. However, one area that often gets overlooked is the increasing use of computers and digital tech. Even artificial intelligence has a place in the new world of construction.

How Technology is Changing the Industry

Last year’s shutdown pushed the use of technology that made many companies not only realize its inevitability but also the benefits it provides. As construction projects require many different partners, the need for technology that streamlines business operations is on the rise. The application of these digital tools not only optimizes projects but the industry as a whole in areas such as:

  • Employee productivity & efficiency
  • Cost reductions
  • Job and asset flexibility

One of the reasons for this change is the increase in data. Thanks to the growing use of technology and computers, more data is made for construction projects. Thus, causing data analytics to gain popularity in engineering and construction to how companies can use it to improve their business process.

However, according to a study by FMI, 95% of the data collected in the industry goes unused. This highlights perhaps the two biggest issues about technology in the construction landscape- adoption and integration.

It’s possible to collect data on everything from worker efficiency and supply chain delays to overall project costs. Unfortunately, it’s a challenge to use this information when so many of these new technologies aren’t integrated.

Not to mention, the tools that companies need to integrate all of their data may not exist yet. And, even if they do, it may require a hefty upfront cost.

The Growing Use of AI

Another new technology that’s changing the construction industry is artificial intelligence. The term AI describes a machine or computer that is able to do functions similar to humans such as problem-solving or pattern recognition. Machine learning is a subset of AI that uses statistical techniques to analyze large amounts of data. It can do a range of actions like notify project managers about an error, filter out spam emails, or advanced safety monitoring.

Another example of AI in construction is Building Information Modeling. BIM helps engineers, architects, and other professionals to efficiently plan and design structures by using virtual simulation to create 3D models of projects. It saves companies time and money while also providing stakeholders with 3D models to analyze the impact of projects.

Success with U.S. Bridge

Technology is a great tool that is transforming the construction industry. Learn more about the ongoing changes in technology in the industry in our blogs. Or, find out more about how U.S. Bridge has everything you need to make your project a success through our website!

Contact us for a free quote or check our exclusive Bridge Scope tool to start building your project today.

Construction Industry Leaders: The U.S. Bridge Difference

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Although there are various manufacturing companies across the country, their products and services do not include what we like to call the U.S. Bridge difference. In fact, U.S. Bridge is the oldest company in the United States to be engaged exclusively in the manufacture and erection of structural steel bridges for secondary highways under the same family ownership and management. Our great skill and quality have earned us a reputation as construction leaders in our industry.

Our Services

With over 80 years of working with companies all over the world, we know how to work in various situations and budgets. Our services include project scoping, engineering, renderings, fabrication, shipping, erection, and more. We offer services and direct communication with every step of the project.

In addition, our manufacture of Advanced Bridges (ABR) is certified by the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC). AISC certifications are familiar to ISO standards but are specifically directed to steel fabrication. So clients can feel confident that they are receiving the best quality materials.

In fact, our permanent galvanized bridges come closer to achieving the new United States federal guidelines for a 100-year service life than any other permanent steel or concrete bridge design.

Our Difference

After successfully fabricating and installing over 3,000 bridges in Ohio, we began to expand our business. In 1987 our services extended outside of Ohio and eventually all across the country. This was when we adopted the name U.S. Bridge to demonstrate our national sphere of operations. Today we are known as construction leaders and our bridges stand in nearly all states within the U.S. as well as in Canada, Central, and South America.

Three important factors contribute to our success. First, the founder of U.S. Bridge was an engineer. From the very beginning, the creation and design of U.S. Bridge were to fit all infrastructural needs with meticulous detail. And unlike many steel bridge manufacturers, we have always maintained our own staff of engineers. This provides a great advantage of trust, speed, and affordability by removing out the middleman.

Second, not only do we fabricate bridges around the world but we also assemble our local bridges with our own employees and equipment. Once the materials ship our team assists in its assembly taking away the stress and saving time for clients. The direct communication provided in each phase of the project is what attracts many clients.

Third, the combination of design, manufacture, and erection enables us to produce more innovations than any other bridge company. This unique arrangement allows us to offer a customizable experience for our clients.

In addition to our certified quality and great communication, we also present more affordable and rapid bridge assembly. We offer prefabricated bridges that allow the use of fewer trucks and small cranes. This saves clients money and essential project time. Not to mention, our group of small, multi-skilled bridge crews (typically 3-4 welders/carpenters/operators) can achieve steel assembly in less than 7 days.

Industry Leaders

Our speed and skills are recognized and often utilized in emergency situations. We often receive requests from companies or cities all around the world for our bride designs.

As construction leaders, we have the title of first in various innovations within our industry. A few years ago we produced one of the longest bridges in Africa– a one-kilometer long bridge in Mafia Island, Tanzania.

In addition, our projects include building the first:

  • 100% hot-dip galvanized truss bridge
  • domestic truss bridge with a 35-year warranty against corrosion
  • computer-designed steel truss bridge
  • panel bridge designed that meets all U.S. permanent specifications
  • all-welded Warren truss (without rivets)
  • truss to be fully assembled in a factory
  • all-welded deck components fully prepared in a factory

Our innovations and experience explain why we surpass our opposition.

Working with U.S. Bridge

When you choose U.S. Bridge, you’ll be working with bridge engineering and construction experts in every step.  With such a full-service solution, it’s easy to see why U.S. Bridge is often the top choice for developers and contractors. Contact us today to start the process or get a quick scope with our exclusive Bridgescope tool!

Once you’ve met our team and reviewed our work up close, it’ll be easy to see why U.S. Bridge is the right choice for your next project.

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.

What is Modular Construction for Bridges

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At the start of any construction project, you have to ask what materials and method would best accomplish your goal. You’ve probably come across modular bridge construction and you’ve wondered what is it and should you consider it.

We’ve created a brief introduction to modular construction and its benefits to bridge design.

Modular Construction

Modular construction is any construction that is built in a controlled environment, typically a factory, and later installed on-site. The popularity of modular construction is increasingly rising due to its various advantages such as speed, flexibility, and customization.

Modular construction, sometimes known as prefabricated construction, is built with the same materials and similar methods as regular construction, but often comes with additional features unique to prefabrication. For example, since they are manufactured in a controlled environment modular construction has the advantage of ensured quality.

In addition, because it takes place simultaneously in a factory and on-site, modular construction can be completed in half the time of traditional construction. This rapid construction phase and versatility allow them to be used in various situations.

The combination of ensured quality, speed, and flexibility is why modular construction is often considered a durable and efficient option for builders.

The Benefits of Modular Bridges

Modular bridges are relatively modern and thus have many misconceptions. Despite popular belief, modular bridges do not require the use of already premade sections of limited sizing and options. The great thing about modular bridges is their customization and flexibility.

Every modular bridge is specifically designed custom to your project and design. This customization process makes it a preferred and sometimes even, required option for some bridge projects.

Not to mention, since most of the bridge is premade in a safe environment, the likelihood of weather delays or traffic disruption is significantly decreased. Additionally, it provides workers with safer and more comfortable working conditions. Thus modular bridges offer easy and effective project management. It’s an ideal option for any construction project with time or budget constraints.

Build your Next Bridge with U.S. Bridge

As an industry leader in bridge manufacturing and engineering, we’ve built solutions that can be utilized for any bridge project. We’ve developed Bridge Kits, a DIY solution for accelerated bridge construction that is engineered, designed, manufactured, and galvanized per AISC certifications.

We work with environmentally friendly materials to build strong, long-lasting bridges. Coupled with extensive experience, our team designs, and manufactures high-quality bridges custom to your project.

We’ve been engineering bridges for decades. If you’d like to know more about our Bridge Kits and accelerated bridge construction, please contact us for a free quote or use our exclusive bridge design tool Bridge Scope today.

Millennials and Technology in the Construction Industry

The Future Of Construction Technology And Millennials In The Industry

Views on the construction industry are beginning to change as technology becomes more and more prevalent. This is true in many areas of the workforce. For a long time, the construction industry has been considered the last to embrace technology. However, the rise of tech in the industry is inevitable. Not to mention, upcoming job positions are being filled by millennials, who have grown up in a technology driven world. This not only transforms the future of construction but demands that the industry also evolve to embrace innovation. In another article, U.S. Bridge mentions the need for technology to make up for labor shortages. How can companies face this challenge to advance the future of construction?

Millennials in Construction, Embracing Innovation

As the construction industry continues to evolve, it will have to adjust to changes in innovation. So, this most likely means that technology will play a huge role in the coming years. With millennials taking over, it is especially crucial. In fact, according to Paul Gomori, Application Engineering Manager at JCA Electronics, “older generations look to millennials for how to incorporate tech into the job site.” This often leads to a problem of closing the gap between the construction professionals with years of experience and the younger technology-savvy generations. How can companies form a balance among the gap? Younger generations are used to the constant changes that occur in the workforce. In other words, they are open to experimenting between solutions and incorporating technology to help get there. Some of the emerging technology that will shape future construction include:

  • Drones
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality
  • Smartphone Apps
  • Tablets
  • Wearables

The Future of Construction

There are many advantages that arise from incorporating technology in construction. For example, the efficiency and productivity of design or building processes.

“The right construction technology can centralize information and communication, improve safety, and reduce the amount of time spent on non-value-added tasks.”

Chad Hollingsworth, Cofounder & President, Triax Technologies

As millennials take over, there will be drastic changes in construction projects. For example, one significant shift will be the duration of processes. Manual work can be time-consuming and may cause delays among steps. Not only will technology prevent these circumstances, but with the help of millennials in the construction industry, the use of tech will become widespread.

U.S. Bridge is Evolving

U.S. Bridge is making a difference in infrastructure. In fact, our skilled professionals are hard at work incorporating the latest advancements in construction. Our steel bridges are designed and constructed with a proven and reliable fabricating and quality assurance process. Get a Quote today.