The abutment of bridge belongs to a support structure. The purpose of abutment is to dispense the weight and attach it to an embankment.

Main Function of Abutment

Bridge abutments attach the deck, or surface of the bridge, to the ground and facilitate supporting its weight both horizontal and vertical directions. On short bridges, one abutment is provided at either end of the bridge and jointed with the embankment, sometimes along with a retaining wall.

Longer bridges comprise of extra abutments which are provided along the length, or extent of the bridge to deliver required support at uniform spaces. They provide support to vertical direction without any retaining wall. The selection of abutment is based on the existing space, geologic features of the bridge site, and existing budget for the project.





Elements of an Abutment

Normally, the abutments are arranged at either end of a bridge along with the components given below :

Bridge Seat: This horizontal shelf provides supports to the bridge deck and is adjacent to or on the top of an abutment. On the embankment, these will retain the end of a span, whereas those provided along a span will give support to minimize expanded stress.

Wing Walls: These are found in abutments which are attached with the embankment. They belong to short retaining walls which can resist corrosion and provide durability.