Steel Bridge Construction: Myths & Realities

Topics: Construction, Steel Bridge Basics

Steel Bridge Construction: Myths & Realities was developed to dispel some of the “myths” or misconceptions surrounding the use of steel in bridge construction.These myths often arise out of past experience and don’t take into account changes in technology, improvements in materials and products or updated design and construction practices.

Adhering to these myths can limit the competitiveness of steel solutions, lead to misuse of steel products or prevents designer and owners from taking advantage of viable options when it comes to providing crossings.

The information is presented so that choices of framing materials can be made with more accurate knowledge and in the most rational way possible. What follows is not intended to be an exhaustive treatise on the technical aspects of steel bridge design but rather to help designers and owners take full advantage of steel in their search for viable solutions. To the extent possible we have provided references as back up and as sources for additional information.

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Does steel provide a cost-effective solution for short span bridges?

Short span steel bridges deliver significant cost savings because of steel’s light weight, the allowance of smaller abutments, rapid installation, and the use of lighter equipment and local crews. Steel also delivers durability with an expected service life of more than 100 years for many bridges, considerable life cycle advantages, and minimal maintenance requirements over the service life of the structure.

Dr. Michael Barker, University of Wyoming, explored the initial costs, life cycle costs, future costs, and bridge life of 1,186 typical steel and concrete state bridges in Pennsylvania built between 1960 and 2010. He compiled a database from PennDOT historical data comparing five types of bridges, including concrete precast I-beam, box adjacent, and box spread bridges, and steel rolled beam and welded plate girder.

Results showed steel I-beams have the lowest average deterioration rate; have the longest average expected life (81 years); offer the lowest average initial and life cycle costs for short bridges; and have lower average future costs compared to initial costs.

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Learn more about the economics of steel→