News

Home < News < Simply Supported Beam Bridge Bearing Vs. Continuous Beam Bridge Bearing

Simply Supported Beam Bridge Bearing Vs. Continuous Beam Bridge Bearing

Dec. 14, 2022

Simply supported beam bridges and continuous beam bridges are two common types of bridges that are distinguished by the way in which the beam is supported. A simply supported beam bridge has a horizontal beam that is supported at two or more end points, called bearings. A continuous beam bridge, on the other hand, has a beam that is supported continuously along its length, typically by a series of intermediate supports.


Simply Supported Beam Bridge Bearing

Simply Supported Beam Bridges

Simply supported beam bridges are characterized by their simplicity, ease of construction, and low cost. They are typically composed of a single beam or a series of beams supported at their ends, with no intermediate supports along their length. This makes them relatively straightforward to design and construct, compared to more complex bridge types such as cable-stayed bridges or suspension bridges.


Simply supported beam bridges are also relatively flexible, meaning they are able to move or deform slightly under load without suffering significant damage. This can be beneficial in situations where the bridge is subjected to dynamic loads or movements, such as earthquakes or wind.



Continuous Beam Bridge Bearing

Continuous Beam Bridges

Continuous beam bridges are characterized by their ability to distribute loads and movements along the length of the beam, rather than concentrating them at the end points. This can make them more stable and durable than simply supported beam bridges, which are more susceptible to lateral forces and deformations. Continuous beam bridges are also generally more resistant to thermal expansion and contraction, as the intermediate supports allow the beam to expand and contract without causing significant stresses or deformations in the structure.


Continuous beam bridges are commonly used in applications where the span length is relatively long, or where the bridge is subjected to significant lateral loads. They are also often used in combination with other types of bridges, such as cable-stayed or suspension bridges, to provide additional stability and support.


In a continuous beam bridge, the intermediate supports distribute the loads and movements along the length of the beam. This can reduce the overall stresses and movements in the structure, making it more stable and durable. Continuous beam bridges are generally more resistant to lateral forces and deformations than simply supported beam bridges, due to the continuous support provided by the intermediate supports.


Difference

The main difference between bearings in simply supported beam bridges and continuous girder bridges is the way they transmit loads and movements. In a simply supported girder bridge, the supports transfer all loads and motions directly to the substructureIn continuous beam bridges, intermediate supports distribute the loads and motions along the length of the girder. This reduces the overall stress and movement in the structure, making it more stable and durable. Because intermediate supports provide continuous support, continuous girder bridges are usually more resistant to lateral forces and deformations than simply supported girder bridges.



If you want to know more information about Beam bridge supports, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.