Different Types Of Arches

An arch is a curved structural form that carries loads around an opening,

transferring them around the profile of the arch to abutments, jambs or piers
on either side. Arches have been a prominent feature in architecture since the
time of the Etruscans who are credited with its invention, although the
Romans developed it further and spread its use. The techniques involved in
designing and constructing arches have since developed into many other
structural forms, including vaults, arcades and bridges.

Arches are compressive structures, that is, there are no tensile stresses. They
are self-supporting, stabilised by the force of gravity acting on their weight to
hold them in compression. This makes them very stable and efficient, capable
of larger spans, and supporting greater loads than horizontal beams.

The downward load of an arch must be transferred to its foundations. The

outward thrust exerted by an arch at its base must be restrained, either by its
own weight or the weight of supporting walls, by buttressing or foundations,
or by an opposing tie between the two sides. The outward thrust increases as
the height, or rise, of the arch decreases.

Arch construction
Since many building materials, such as masonry and concrete, can
resist compression, arches are commonly constructed using these types
of material. The construction of traditional masonry arches is dependent on
the arrangement of the bricks, blocks or stones over the opening. Wedge-
shaped blocks, called voussoirs, are set flank-to-flank with the upper edge
being wider than the lower edge. Downward pressure on the arch has the
effect of forcing the voussoirs together instead of apart. The voussoir that is
positioned in the centre of the arch is known as the keystone.

This arrangement means that the arch is self-supporting, but temporary

supports from below, usually in the form of timber ‘centres’ (sometimes called
‘centreing’ or ‘arch formers’), must be provided until the keystone has been set
in place. The interior, lower curve of the arch is known as the intrados. The
exterior, upper curve of the arch is known as the extrados. The spring, or
springing line, is the point from which the archstarts to rise from its vertical
supports.

Types of arch

Most arches are circular, pointed or parabolic, however, there are a great
many variations of these basic forms that have developed during different
periods. Ancient Roman architects favoured rounded arches, whereas
Gothic architects preferred pointed arches and in this respect may have been
influenced by Islamic architecture. Some of the most common types of arch
are below.
Brick
Concrete

Steel
Stone
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