Abstract

Network arches are tied arch bridges with inclined hangers, which have multiple intersections. In contrast to tied arch bridges with vertical hangers they are mainly subject to axial forces and only little longitudinal bending, leading to possible savings of more than 50% of structural steel. Despite or maybe because of this amazing claim, few network arches have been built. It is the professional experience of the authors that when a network arch is proposed as an alternative to the conventional tied arch bridge with vertical hangers, the responsible persons request an extensive demonstration of its benefits. In this article the authors present a comparative study of conventional tied arch bridges and network arch bridges. Subsequently, the basic structural behavior of a network arch is explained by means of a parametric study of the radial hanger arrangement. This paper concludes that the longitudinal bending moments are about ten times smaller in a network arch than in a tied arch bridge with vertical hangers, leading to important material savings.