Q. What is Diaphragms in bridges?

Diaphragms in bridges

The principal function of diaphragms is to provide stiffening effect to deck slab in case bridge webs aren't situated directly on top of bearings. Consequently diaphragms may not be essential in case bridge bearings are placed directly under the webs since loads in bridge decks can be directly transferred to the bearings. Instead diaphragms also help to improve load-sharing characteristics of bridges. As a matter of fact diaphragms also contribute to the provision of torsional restraint to the bridge deck.

Fig. Diaphragm.