What is a Pontoon Bridge

A Pontoon Bridge, also known as a floating bridge, is historically a temporary structure often implemented by the military during wartime, who would often remove the bridge after they had crossed. The main principle is that the bridge floats, creating a link over water and whether the bridge is constructed from wood, steel or concrete, it will be very buoyant. A Pontoon Bridge can support a large amount of weight, which is roughly equal to the amount of water it displaces. The floating sections need to be anchored for stability.

Modern incarnations of Pontoon Bridges can be constructed as a permanent structure when the area is not suited to a conventional bridge. Built from steel and concrete, the world’s largest floating bridge in Seattle spans an impressive 2,310m, illustrating the varied applications of a Pontoon Bridge.

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