Tags: 2003, arch bridge, balsa bridge, science olympiad
4,333 views in 2012
Balsa and Basswood Arch Bridge
This is an older bridge I came across when browsing through my old Science Olympiad photos. I used both Balsa and Basswood to build this bridge. This bridge was part of my design process which ended up with my SO winning bridge in 2004.
It is pretty easy to see how this bridge failed: the bottom fell out. This is a fairly easy fix, and might have been due simply to poor wood selection. Had I paid more attention to the quality of wood I was using, this failure might have been avoided.
I used two pieces for the arch. I had a square 1/16″ x 1/16″ piece of Basswood for the bottom of the arch. Then I glued a rectangle piece of Balsa wood on top of that to form a T beam. This method worked pretty well, but Balsa is harder to bend than Basswood.
HOw to bend the wood to make it a arch?
Check out http://www.craftstickbending.com
My group and I are constructing a base that will be able to hold 150lbs. Our base is only allowed to be made out of Balsa wood and glue. We have an idea base in mind but I need help constructing it. Please email me and i will show you pictures of our ideas. Thank you for your time. r_garcia248@yahoo.com
hey im building a bridge in math class and i was wondering how to lap your joints together but nice bridge thank you
I’m building a bridge for a competition and I was wondering if it would be better to use an arch or if I should just leave it out.
Hey i like your design of the arch bridge.we’re making a bridge in my class and i needed to zsee an example of one to make it.
Hey,
I’m a beginner and am trying to build my first arched bridge. I was wondering if you would mind telling me how you were able to bend the wood and create your bridge. Thank you!
-andrea; andreamv113@yahoo.com
hello…i like this design but i think tht it could have a stronger base.:)
What process did you use to get the wood to bend without cracking?
nice bridge,i have to build one for class and was doing some research