The bridge whose load bearing superstructures are composed of trusses, and the arrangement of linked element creating triangular unit is referred to as truss bridge. The linked element normally straight might be stressed from compression, tension or most times both in reply to lively loads. This type of bridge is considered the oldest kinds of state of the art bridges. The fundamental kinds of truss bridge have simple styles that can be analyzed by nineteenth and early twentieth century engineers.
Pros of Truss Bridge
Economical, strong and light: Truss bridge is very economical to build as it utilizes materials effectively. It is also strong, light and utilizes little or small timbers. Truss bridge is very strong because they are completed of triangles that are ridged.
Can Be Constructed in a suitable area: Another significant benefit of truss bridge is the fact that they could be developed in a suitable place, and then places where it need to bridge, even if this impossible sometimes. This makes this bridge the best alternative to span over roads and railways.
Easy to Build: One exceptional feature of this bridge is that the roadbeds might be placed exactly on the bridge that is impossible with other types of bridge building. Roadbeds are a base upon that railroad parts such as rails, and ballasts. Once this is placed straight over the bridge, it is also known as deck tress.
Cons of Truss Bridge
It Takes so Much Space: One major advantage of truss bridge is that it requires more space in building and sometimes the main cause of accidents.
Heavy: This is another drawback of truss bridge, aside from being heavy; building this bridge is costly as well as requires time and money to upkeep. Even if this bridge is strong and has the capability to hold up lot of force, this is not built anymore because of the cost.
Wasting of materials: If not made properly it can result to wasting the material. There could be zero pressure members which do nothing.
Truss bridge according to many experts is the most durable and strong kind of bridge which has been used for many years in various industrialized country. However, this is also considered the most expensive type of bridge available. So, it is essential that prior to making a decision you have to know first the benefits and the disadvantage of this truss bridge.