Primary load-bearing elements made of high-strength steel wires bundled together; these follow a parabolic curve.
Minimal need for piers below, allowing shipping traffic to continue during construction and operation. suspension bridge
Massive concrete blocks embedded at both ends of the bridge, securing the main cables into the ground. Key Engineering Principles suspension bridge
Generally requires less material per unit length, making them cost-effective for long distances. suspension bridge
A "stiffening girder" or truss is usually added along the deck to prevent twisting and swaying caused by heavy loads and wind. Advantages
The towers are under compression (pressing down), transferring the load to the foundation.
Vertical structures that support the main cables and transfer loads down to the foundations. Bridge Deck: The roadway or walkway surface.