Briefing: Arch bridges – unlocking their potential

Abstract

Arch bridges are strong, durable, aesthetically pleasing and require little maintenance but very few have been built since the early 1900s. However, this trend has changed as more than 60 FlexiArch bridges have been installed since the system was launched in 2007. The FlexiArch uses precast concrete voussoirs, requires neither corrodible reinforcement, nor centring, can be installed in hours and is contractor friendly. Details of this innovative method of construction and installation of arch bridges are given and the enormous potential of the system for multi-span viaducts is also highlighted.

Editorial

“…Even if the materials engineering developments lead to new horizons, there is always room for classic building techniques, which are always very interesting and important, as shown for the arch bridges in the briefing by Long and Nanukuttan (2017). Arches appeared as early as the second millennium BC in Mesopotamian brick architecture and their systematic use started with the ancient Romans.…”

“…Throughout the Roman empire, Roman engineers erected arch structures such as bridges, aqueducts (Fabre et al, 1991) and gates. In their briefing, Long and Nanukuttan (2017) observe that arch bridges are strong, durable, aesthetically pleasing and require little maintenance, but very few have been built since the early 1900s. However, this trend has changed as more than 60 FlexiArch bridges have been installed since the system was launched in 2007.…”