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Does anyone know offhand the rough approximation of the distance between the bottom of a truss (or girder) bridge, and the surface of the lake (or river) water. I know in "real life" it varies, but what is the norm ?? I'm using a Kato truss bridge, and want it to look right. Thanks, before I get all the track & bridges down...
There is no "norm", it all depends upon the particular location. If the bridge is across a deep ravine, then it will be a big distance. If the watercourse is a wide, flat and shallow then the bridge could be at a minimal clearance. How high the water level might get during the year also matters, some streams/creeks can swell up many times their normal levels if they are below an area where there is a lot of snow melt or is prone to flash flooding due to heavy rains in the area.
It also matters if the watercourse is navigable, there needs to be enough clearance under the bridge for the size and type of vessels using the waterway. I've seen bridges with 70-80 feet of clearance underneath, others with 5-10'.
I used to inspect bridge plans for just such reasons when I worked, now retired from the Canadian Coast Guard.
It depends how high the water is!
wow
thanks Bob....can't argue with "expert" advice !!
And to whomever included the photo....man, a picture IS worth a thousand words ! Maybe more !!
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