Balkenträgerbrücke

A Balkenträgerbrücke, also known as a girder bridge, is a common type of bridge where the deck is supported by horizontal beams called girders. These girders can be made of steel, concrete, or a combination of materials. The simplest form is a single girder spanning between two supports, often seen in pedestrian bridges or small road crossings. In more complex designs, multiple girders are placed side-by-side and topped with a deck structure.

The load from the deck and traffic is transferred to the girders, which then transmit the forces to the abutments or piers at the ends of the bridge. The depth and material of the girders are crucial for determining the bridge's strength and span capability. Deeper girders are generally stronger and can span longer distances. Common types of girders include I-beams, box girders, and plate girders, each offering different advantages in terms of strength, weight, and cost.

Balkenträgerbrücken are widely used due to their relatively simple design, ease of construction, and adaptability to various span lengths. They are a foundational element in bridge engineering and can be found in a multitude of applications, from highway overpasses and railway bridges to simple culverts. Their effectiveness lies in their ability to efficiently carry vertical loads across a gap.