Steel Cable Suspension Bridges are iconic structures that utilize steel cables under tension to support the bridge deck. Known for their long spans and graceful appearance, these bridges consist of several key components including bridge towers, main cables, slings, stiffening beams, anchors, and saddles.

The primary load-carrying element that supports the entire weight of the bridge deck and transfers the load to the bridge towers or anchorages. Most bridges with spans greater than 1000m use suspension bridge structures.

• Wire Rope Main Cable: Twisted into strands by wire, then into rope by strands (typically 7 strands), used for small span suspension bridges
• Parallel Wire Bundle Main Cable: Uses parallel steel wire strands (PPWS method) to accelerate construction progress

The main load-bearing component that resists vertical loads in suspension bridges.

• Structural Forms: Rigid tower (small horizontal displacement), flexible tower (large horizontal displacement), rocking column tower (small span bridges)
• Cross Bridge Forms: Truss type, rigid frame type, and mixed type structures

A secondary structure that ensures vehicle running and provides structural stiffness, mainly bearing bending internal force.

• Steel truss beams
• Steel box beams
• Concrete beams
• Steel-mixed composite beams

• By Span Number: Single-span, three-span, four-span, five-span
• By Anchoring Form: Ground anchor (tension transferred to foundation) and self-anchoring (tension transmitted directly to stiffening beam)

• Highway bridges spanning large bodies of water or deep valleys
• Pedestrian and cyclist crossings in scenic locations
• Long-span bridges in challenging environments

The construction process includes anchor foundation construction, anchor construction, bridge tower foundation construction, bridge tower construction, main cable construction, stiffened beam construction, and bridge deck construction.

• Large span capacity (especially over 1000m)
• Excellent seismic performance
• Lightweight and aesthetically pleasing appearance
• Structural efficiency through tension forces
• Inherent flexibility and resilience
• Faster construction compared to other bridge types