Bridge beams support the weight of the deck, vehicles, and people passing over the structure. Due to heavy traffic, bad weather, moisture, and corrosion, some parts may wear out and require upkeep. Here is more information about the lifespan and maintenance requirements of these bridge components:
Service Life
The lifespan of bridge beams depends on the material they’re made of, including steel, concrete, timber, and composites. If steel has a protective coating that manages rust, it can last longer than when it lacks this surface treatment. When concrete beams are compacted and cured properly, they are able to become more durable. For timber, it may last long when it’s treated with preservatives, while composites contain strong materials that extend their service life.
If the bridge experiences heavy loads and constant traffic, beams might deteriorate with time. When there’s adequate drainage, expansion joints, and proper reinforcement cover during installation, these components last long. If the supports under a beam remain stable, they distribute loads evenly and reduce excessive stress on the beam. Failing to maintain beams consistently can cause them to fall apart, making the bridge unsafe to use for a long period.
Maintenance Requirements
A team of professionals can inspect and maintain bridge systems to determine if they are in good condition, boosting safety. During this process, technicians identify issues and fix them to make the bridge stable. Here are some maintenance requirements for beams to help them work properly and securely:
Cleaning Components
When a crew cleans beams, it gets rid of road salts, dirt, and leaves that trap moisture and contribute to rusting. These professionals wash the drainage systems to remove any blockage that causes water to pool and apply pressure on the beams. Clearing surfaces makes it easy for specialists to see whether the structure has cracks, rot, or corrosion. If there are gutter systems, they are cleared to prevent water from spilling over onto beams or foundations and causing damage. In areas where bridges are exposed to high pollution and salt exposure, different parts are washed to prevent mold growth and corrosion.
Applying Coatings
In steel beams, experts apply a protective coating that contains zinc, a process called hot-dip galvanizing, to prevent rust and allow the structure to remain durable for a longer period. Painting or adding preservatives to wooden material guards against moisture, fungi, and insects that destroy bare timber. Composite beams with fiber polymer benefit from gel coats or UV-resistant coatings that shield them from excessive sunlight. If the bridge system is made of concrete, experts add sealants to help it repel water that may lead to cracking. Before adding protective treatments, surfaces are cleaned, sandblasted, or ground to remove old coatings and rust that interfere with the new coating.
Sealing Cracks
After checking timber and concrete beams and the team discovers cracks, it fixes them to prevent water, salts, and chemicals from damaging the structure. If the cracks are serious, injecting epoxy into them helps hold the beam together and prevents the stress lines from spreading. Specialists sometimes use polyurethane Injection to seal leaky cracks, stopping water and moisture from entering the beams. For severe damage, the cracked section may need to be removed and replaced to allow the bridge to function safely. If a steel beam has small gaps, a professional welds it and adds reinforcement plates to make it stronger.
Lubricating Parts
Adding lubricant to joints, bearings, and bolted connections allows these parts to move, preventing beams from shifting due to heavy loads. When experts lubricate joints, they allow parts of the bridge to expand or contract, which minimizes noise and wear. With sufficient lubrication, bearings help the system to move, preventing cracks in different types of beams. In some designs, lubricating bolts or pins help prevent corrosion and allow beams to remain secure and flexible. Examples of lubricants used are grease, oil, or graphite, which help to reduce friction and extend the life of mechanical connections.
Get Quality Bridge Beams
Maintenance helps your bridge remain strong and long-lasting, but if you notice signs like excessive cracks, rust, water leaks, or movement, you may need to work with an infrastructure company to update or replace your bridge. Experienced contractors will design and build a strong steel bridge that withstands heavy use and different types of weather. To make sure bridges are safe, work with an experienced company today.