In general terms, the major components of track carrying structure are very similar to
their non-railway counterparts. In addition to the types of construction, the engineer
must also choose from among the available material alternatives. Generally, these are
limited to timber, concrete and steel, or a combination of the three. Exotic materials
can also be considered, but they are beyond the scope of this book. Each material has
its specific advantages. Timber is economical, but has strength and life limitations.
Structural timber of the size and grade traditionally used for railway structures is getting
more difficult to obtain at a price competitive with concrete or steel. Concrete is also
economical, but its strength to weight ratio is poor. Steel has a good strength to weight
ratio, but is expensive. The material chosen for the spans will generally determine the
designation of the bridge. For instance, steel beam spans on timber piles will be
considered a steel bridge.