Stone Arch Bridges

Tag: Forces

  • Washed Out Roadbed

    Fill Work on a Stone Bridge

    Fill work on a stone arch bridge is best done cautiously, as the fill tends to play an important role in the overall stability of the bridge. Here are some tips and possible pitfalls for this type of maintenance.

  • Detail of Rubble Arch

    Natural Bedding

    The natural bed of a stone is the direction in which it was resting before it was quarried. A stone placed on its natural bed will tend to outlast one laid on end.

  • Inside Towanda/Augusta Culvert

    Laying Rubble Masonry

    Rubble masonry can be built for longevity. The key is how the stones are laid. Understanding the role of mortar and the importance of contact between stones is the key to success.

  • Front Circle Crack

    The Significance of Cracking

    Cracks in masonry indicate tension in the structure. The nature of the crack provides clues to the underlying cause of this stress, and can be a very clear indicator of structural problems.

  • stone cutting 10

    Choosing Stonecutting Hammers

    Choosing the correct hammer can aid considerably in stonecutting. The weight of the head, the material of the handle, and whether the hammer is blunt or pointed all play an important role in the usage of the tool.

  • Hinges

    Hinges and the Arch

    Hinges are a part of how an arch collapses. In this post we investigate hinges, how they can be formed, and the ramifications for a stone arch bridge.

  • Model Roman arch

    The Thrust of the Roman Arch

    The Roman arch has many subtle peculiarities, which in turn make it a good choice for bridge design. In this post we delve in depth into the properties of the Roman arch.

  • Oak Valley culvert (10)

    Abutment Design Theory

    Designing a stable abutment for a stone arch bridge requires that the abutment be thick enough that the thrust line of the arch be safely contained within the thickness of the abutment.

  • Loaded Paver Arch With Backing

    Backing: A Continuation of the Abutment

    Backing is used to provide resistance to the thrust of the arch of a stone arch bridge. In this post, we investigate good practice and using the backing, and demonstrate how it helps to significantly strengthen the arch.