If there is no expansion joints on a bridge and if it's really hot the molecules of the bridge will be separated slowly and the bridge will collapse
because it is less stronger than the sides of the bridge.
The space at the joints is there to allow for expansion and contraction of the length of the bridge depending on the temperature.
it is a flat joint
Like the regular joints
Cable stay. Yes, this is a cable stayed bridge. I actually sold the expansion joints (Waboflex SR4) for this bridge! It is a very impressive bridge.
The purpose of an expansion joint on a bridge it to permit the components to expand and contract with changing temperatures without stressing the entire bridge structure. Early bridge failure would be the result of building a modern bridge without expansion joints.
super glue the joints on the main beam on the top
Simply put, a truss bridge is just a bridge built by trusses. Trusses are structural frames composed of triangular pieces/joints. So basically a truss bridge is just many triangular structural frames as a support for the bridge.
The joints are essential to maintain the structural integrity of the bridges components throughout temperature ranges. Heat expands the structures and cold contracts. Without expansion joints the bridges overall life would be greatly reduced and cracks and tears could rapidly develop, making the bridge less safe.
W. Black has written: 'Horizontal forces on bridge expansion joints due to vehicles'
the rugs connected to a ladder and the usually metal triangles or crosses of a bridge are examples of rigid joints.