A cable-stayed bridge, also known as diagonal bridge, is a structural system composed of a pressurized tower, strained cables, and a bent beam body where the main beam is directly pulled on the bridge tower with multiple cables.

• Main Beam: Typically concrete, steel-concrete combination, or steel structure
• Cable Tower: Primarily concrete structures, sometimes steel-concrete or steel
• Stay Cable: High-strength steel wire or steel strand arranged in fan-like pattern

The load path transfers from the main beam through the cables to the tower, then to the foundation. This system reduces beam bending moments and structural weight while increasing span capacity.

Ideal for crossing larger rivers due to substantial main span capacity.

Suited for small-to-medium rivers and urban channels with smaller main spans.

Three-tower four-span and multi-tower designs increase flexibility but require careful engineering to control deformation.

Additional piers help manage bending moments at span ends and enhance construction safety during cantilever erection.

Tower configurations balance structural requirements with aesthetic considerations while optimizing load distribution.

• Single Column: Simple structure for single-plane cables
• A-Shape: Enhanced stiffness along bridge axis
• Inverted Y: Reduces negative bending moments in main beam

Tower height impacts overall bridge stiffness and economy, with careful ratio optimization required.

• Single Plane: Requires torsion-resistant box sections
• Vertical Double Plane: Resists torque through cable axial forces
• Diagonal Double Plane: Enhances wind resistance for long spans

• Radial: Maximizes vertical support but complex tower anchorage
• Harp: Parallel cables simplify connections but require more material
• Sector: Combines advantages of both radial and harp systems

• Self-Anchored: Most common configuration
• Ground-Anchored: Used when main span significantly exceeds side spans

• Reduces main beam bending moments
• Simplifies anchoring point structures
• Facilitates cantilever construction
• Simplifies cable replacement

The main beam distributes loads to cables while providing axial compression resistance and transverse stability.

• Prestressed Concrete: Economic for spans under 400m
• Steel-Concrete Composite: Ideal for 400-600m spans
• All Steel: Recommended for spans exceeding 600m
• Hybrid Construction: Steel main span with concrete side spans

• Parallel Wire with Cold Cast Anchor: For integral installation
• Parallel Steel with Clip Anchor: For dispersed installation

• Pneumatic surface modifications
• Damping device installations
• Dynamic characteristic adjustments

• Compact beam dimensions with exceptional span capacity
• Superior wind stability compared to suspension bridges
• No requirement for massive anchorage structures
• Adaptability to cantilever construction methods
• Flexible clearance and elevation accommodation