What’s the Difference Between Steel Truss Bridge vs. Concrete Box Girder Bridge
19-08-2025
Steel Truss Bridge vs. Concrete Box Girder Bridge – What’s the Difference? 🌉Choosing the right bridge structure is not just about aesthetics — it's a decision about strength, lifespan, and long-term value.Steel Truss Bridge (Truss Bridge)Structural weight: Light, suitable for small foundationsSpan: Can be very long (100–500 m)Strength: Strong – resists both compression and tension using triangular truss to distribute forcesMaterial cost: Medium to high (custom-made, almost no repairs needed)Construction complexity: High – assembled from many partsMaintenance: Requires rust protection and frequent inspection of rivets or boltsConcrete Box Girder BridgeStructural Weight: Heavier than truss bridges but lighter than traditional solid beam bridges, while still offering high strengthSpan Length: Medium to long spans (40–200 m)Strength: Handles compressive, tensile, and torsional forces effectivelyMaterial Cost: Moderate to high (especially when custom-fabricated)Construction Complexity: Moderate to high – requires special formworkMaintenance: Minimal, though internal maintenance can be challenging💡 Quick Summary:Truss Bridge: Light, suitable for extra-long spans, good for areas with limited foundations — but needs rust careBox Girder Concrete Bridge: Strong, durable, ideal for large-scale and national infrastructure — with low maintenance