The Steel Cable Suspension Bridge is a flexible suspension combination system composed of a main cable and stiffened beam, combining the stress characteristics of both cable and beam structures. It consists of bridge tower, main cable, sling, stiffening beam, anchor, and saddle components. Most bridges with spans greater than 1000m utilize suspension bridge structures.

The suspension bridge system features two sling arrangements: conventional vertical slings and English oblique slings. The stiffened steel box girder design reduces weight and structural damping values. While inclined slings offer improved vibration energy attenuation, vertical slings are more commonly used due to superior fatigue strength.

The load path transmits from slings to cables, then to anchors, piers, and towers. Both main cable and stiffened beam share load-bearing responsibilities. The main cable serves as the primary load-bearing component, with its deformation directly affecting bridge performance.

• Main Cable: Primary load-bearing element available in wire rope or parallel wire bundle configurations
• Bridge Tower: Vertical load resistance structure available in rigid, flexible, or rocking column designs
• Stiffening Beam: Secondary structure ensuring vehicle stability with steel truss, box, or composite designs
• Sling: Force transmission component connecting stiffened beam to main cable
• Anchor: Structure anchoring main cable tension to foundation

Available in multiple configurations including steel truss beams, steel box beams, concrete beams, and steel-concrete composite beams.

Ground anchored suspension bridges utilize either gravity or tunnel anchorage systems. Tunnel anchors offer significant concrete savings when geological conditions permit.

Available in single-span, three-span, four-span, and five-span configurations.

Ground anchor systems transfer tension to foundation structures, while self-anchoring systems transmit tension directly to stiffening beams.

The suspension bridge construction sequence includes: anchor foundation construction, anchor installation, bridge tower foundation work, tower erection, main cable installation, stiffened beam assembly, and bridge deck construction.

• Increased concrete protective layer thickness
• High performance durable concrete
• Protective coatings and sealants
• Enhanced reinforcement materials and coatings
• Cathodic protection systems

• Advanced paint coating systems
• Thermal spray zinc/aluminum alloy coatings
• Weathering steel applications
• Environmental control measures

• River Crossings: Efficient spanning of wide waterways with minimal environmental impact
• Valley Crossings: Direct connections across challenging topography