Function of a Bridge's Bottom Chord

The bottom chord (tension chord) is a critical structural element:

1. Load Carrying: Resists tensile forces from traffic, wind, and dead loads.
2. Force Transfer: Channels forces from deck to piers/abutments, reducing stress concentrations.
3. Dead Load Counteraction: Offsets the deck's self-weight, maintaining shape.
4. Deflection Control: Adds stiffness, limiting bending under load.
5. Structural Integrity: Works with top chord, web members, and other components for overall stability.

Made of steel, concrete, or composite; engineered for specific tensile demands.