A steel arch bridge utilizes an arch structure primarily made of steel to bear weight and forces from traffic loads, distributing them evenly to supports at each end (abutments or piers).

• Arch ring
• Suspension rod (or arch column)
• Tie rod
• Bridge beam

• Section form: Steel box arch, steel pipe arch, steel truss arch
• Space posture: Parallel arch ribs, basket arch ribs, butterfly arch ribs
• Carriageway position: Upper bearing, middle bearing, and lower bearing type
• Boom layout: Parallel vertical boom, inclined boom, mesh boom

Simple system arch bridge: Only the arch ring bears forces, with thrust directly handled by piers/foundation.

Combined system arch bridge: Carriageway beam and arch work together in load bearing.

Primary load-bearing member that mainly withstands axial pressure with some bending moment. Available in box, pipe, or truss configurations.

Transfers deck loads to arch ribs. Available as rigid (steel pipe/section) or flexible (high-strength wire) configurations.

Bears arch thrust in non-thrust systems, handling significant axial tension.

Enhances transverse stiffness and stability, with common configurations including K-shaped, X-shaped, and meter-shaped supports.

• Arch axis: Typically arc line, quadratic parabola, or catenary
• Rise span ratio: Commonly 1/4~1/7 (1/4~1/5 for truss arches)
• Height variation: Equal height or variable height configurations

• Long span capability with superior strength and durability
• Rapid construction through prefabricated components
• Ideal for highway, railway, and pedestrian bridges
• Particularly suitable for heavy-duty applications and double-deck arrangements