• Shri Hiteshkumar P. Kanani

The early 20th century saw the development of bridges with bigger crossings and lesser intermediate supports. The structures were designed with mild steel, riveted connections. Additionally, the reinforced concrete foundations have withstood decades of exposure to all weathers. Although, the long-term quality of bridges is a subject of concern due to degradation and structural fatigue. This article presents an empirical study of early 20th-century cantilever bridges through analysis of historical data. According to historical research and modern structural testing, early cantilever bridges have experienced a 12% reduction in strength due to exposure to environmental conditions. These models show a decrease in the maximum load capacity. Notable cantilever bridges include the Forth Bridge in Scotland, Quebec Bridge in Canada, and Howrah Bridge in India. Some significant advances in bridge engineering can be seen in the comparative analysis with modern cantilever bridges constructed using high-performance steel alloys, fiber-reinforced concrete. Despite the changes, early concrete bridges still need to be maintained. This article shows the importance of preservation strategies for historic bridges. Additionally it highlights modern bridge systems are essential for extending the lifespan of early 20th-century cantilever bridges.

Cantilever design, structural engineering, material degradation, load-bearing capacity, bridge maintenance, finite element modeling, historical infrastructure, corrosion analysis, fatigue resistance, structural rehabilitation

"Empirical Evaluation of Early 20th-Century Cantilever Bridges and Their Performance", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.5, Issue 5, page no.146-158, May-2018, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1805A25.pdf

"Empirical Evaluation of Early 20th-Century Cantilever Bridges and Their Performance", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.5, Issue 5, page no. pp146-158, May-2018, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1805A25.pdf