Abstract

Asymmetric network arch bridges offer new possibilities to the design engineers. At the same time they ensure both, economic and static efficiency. In contrast to tied arch bridges with vertical hangers, in network arches without hanger relaxation the line of thrust lies within the arch for all load cases. Therefore, the arch shape does not have to be adapted to a special load case and may be asymmetric. The requirement for this is, that a hanger arrangement is designed, which avoids hanger relaxation. Internal forces and technical feasibility are basically the same as in symmetric network arches. Possible applications are asymmetric bridge locations, skew bridges or bridges with variable width. ©Ernst & Sohn Verlag für Architektur und technische Wissenschaften GmbH & Co. KG.