Abutments

ABUTMENTS

· The Structure upon which the ends of a Bridge

rests is referred to as an Abutment

· The most common type of Abutment Structure

is a Retaining Wall, Although other types of

Abutments are also possible and are used

· A retaining wall is used to hold back an earth

embankment or water and to maintain a

sudden change in elevation.

· Abutment serves following functions

o Distributes the loads from Bridge Ends to

the ground

o Withstands any loads that are directly

imposed on it

o Provides vehicular and pedestrian access

to the bridge

· In case of Retaining wall type Abutment

bearing capacity and sliding resistance of the

foundation materials and overturning stability

must be checked.