Question

What is a suspension bridge? What is its limitation of span over a waterway?

Answer 1

A suspension bridge is a type of bridge in which the deck (the load-bearing portion) is hung below suspension cables on vertical suspenders. The first modern examples of this type of bridge were built in the early 1800s. Simple suspension bridges, which lack vertical suspenders, have a long history in many mountainous parts of the world.





Longer main spans are achievable than with any other type of bridge

Less material may be required than other bridge types, even at spans they can achieve, leading to a reduced construction cost

Except for installation of the initial temporary cables, little or no access from below is required during construction, for example allowing a waterway to remain open while the bridge is built above

May be better able to withstand earthquake movements than heavier and more rigid bridges

Bridge decks can have deck sections replaced in order to widen traffic lanes for larger vehicles or add additions width for separated cycling/pedestrian paths.