The Second Severn Crossing

Suspension bridges are "hung" using steel ropes. These are very strong, thick ropes spun using hundreds or even thousands of steel wires. Often these wires are of different shaped cross-sections designed to fit together for optimum strength. The decking (or "floor") of bridges are made either from steel plate, or from concrete reinforced with steel rods. Steel beams, joists, columns or tubes (both round and rectangular) are used for a variety of purposes: for piers or for supports for example. Steel piling may be used to support the bridge's foundations.

Safety barriers and handrails will probably also be made from a variety of different types of steel. Tubes can be welded together to form railings. Crash barriers are made from precisely-tensioned steel wire, or from steel sheet that has been profiled into a "corrugated" shape.

Lighting columns can be made from welded steel tubes. Even the road signs are made from steel sheet.