An arch bridge is a bridge with abutments at each end shaped as a curved arch. A viaduct (a long. Arch structures are unique structural forms which resists forces majorly by converting them to compressive forces, in a process popularly referred to as arch action. By transferring the compressive forces through the arch rib or barrels, they are transferred to the base of the arch as outward. Arch bridges can be made of stone, concrete, iron, or steel and typically require less material than a beam bridge of the same span. The arch came to a lot of later as applied to bridge building. Now let's get into detail: What is Arch Bridge? An. If an anti-funicular arch geometry is chosen, usually for permanent loads, arch bridges carry the corresponding loads efficiently.