A Study on the Industrial Development of Steel and Iron Bridge Constructuction

Evolution of Bridge Fabrication Industry and Factories in Modern Japan

Abstract

The introduction of advanced technology from western countries began at the latter half of 19th century resulted in the modernization of steel and iron bridge construction technology. Before the modernization, iron was never used for the structural purpose and fabrication of iron was unknown technology in Japan. The aim of this study is to clarify the process of of the evolution of bridge industry based on the establishment and development for the fabrication and construction of iron and steel bridges. The period to be examined in this paper is about 70 years from the middle of 19th century.