Chapter 15: Suspension bridges

This chapter provides a summary of the principal requirements for the design and construction of gravity-anchored suspension bridges with a classical three-span layout. After a brief historical introduction, available types of structural cable are described. The analysis and characteristics of suspended cables are then considered, both when acting in isolation and in conjunction with the suspended structure and towers of a complete structure. The requirements governing the overall layout and detailed design of the main cables, suspended structure, hangers, main towers, cable saddles and anchorages are then described. After consideration of the critical role of aerodynamics in the design of these bridges, construction methods are discussed, with particular reference to those for the main cables (spinning, compaction and wrapping for corrosion protection) that are unique to suspension bridges.