National Steel Bridge Alliance
Preservation and Repairability
Whether it be for a new steel bridge or a steel bridge rehabilitation project, the durability strategy is an important aspect of a steel bridge to consider. Owners have several options to choose from, and all of them can be appropriate in a given environment and exposure. But, depending on various factors, there are pros and cons of each system to consider.
Corrosion Protection and Durability Resources
Above is a box and whisker chart (click to enlarge) summarizing the relative cost difference of various steel bridge corrosion protection systems, with uncoated weathering steel (UWS) serving as the baseline. This chart is meant to be a reference to provide rough differences between various systems, and we recommend reaching out to your local fabricator for better cost information.
Find more resources for the various corrosion protection systems that can be utilized on a steel bridge.
Extending In-Service Life of Steel Bridges
One primary benefit of steel bridges is that their service life can be extended with minimal cost and service interruptions. Whether it be with strengthening with cover plates or heat-straightening after a vehicular impact, steel bridges can easily be repaired or rehabilitated.
Find resources and examples of preservation and repairability.