Why Bridges Have Metal Teeth (What Happens Without Them) ???? - Video

Ever wondered why do bridges have metal teeth across the road? Those interlocking metal teeth on a highway bridge are thermal expansion joints—and here is how a bridge expansion joint explained in 30 seconds stops summer heat from buckling the concrete.

When temperatures rise, solid concrete and steel expand by over a foot on long spans. Without expansion gaps and sliding steel finger joints, trapped thermal stress would crack and shatter the roadway underneath your tires.

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Expansion joints are the giant metal teeth on highway bridges that prevent the structures from snapping during extreme heat.

These heavy-duty steel fingers allow bridge engineering to accommodate thermal expansion, which can cause a span to grow by over a foot on hot days. By providing a flexible gap, these joints stop the buildup of internal pressure that would otherwise cause critical damage to the concrete and support pillars.

Without this clever design, the constant cycle of expansion and contraction would eventually compromise the integrity of our infrastructure. We explain the mechanics behind these interlaced steel plates, showing how they maintain a smooth ride for vehicles while allowing for necessary structural movement. Understanding how these hidden components protect massive highway bridges helps us appreciate the complexity of everyday road travel.

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