Structural Bearings

The structural bearings are restraining devices used in structures, bridges and buildings, in order to precisely convey loads and restrain set degrees of freedom of movement.

Depending on design requirements, structural bearings we supply can be divided into the following main categories:

Pot Bearings

Pot bearings, although relatively small in size, can transmit considerable loads from the bridge structure, absorb rotations and accommodate horizontal movements. They are mainly composed of a steel pot with an elastomeric pad and steel lid. The elastomeric pad is totally insulated within the pot through interposition between the pot and the lid of an anti-extrusion joint. When subjected to vertical and horizontal loads, the pot acts as an incompressible fluid so that it enables an oscillation of the lid in relation to the pot; the hydro statistical pressure being released.

Pot bearings are available in 3 classes covering all movement, rotation and sliding permutations:

• Fixed
• Guided
• Free

Pot bearings are manufactured as bespoke for each project ensuring that the correct choice and design is utilized for each and every pot bearing location within the project. They are manufactured to high quality assurance procedures, utilizing the best possible materials. Once loadings, rotations, movements and approximate sizes are given then we can determine the correct pot bearing required. CAD drawings for installation are also supplied. Installation of the pot bearings is straightforward, full method statements are available. Each pot bearing is anchored, levelled and grouted using high strength epoxy free-flowing grout.

Elastomer Bearings

Elastomer bearings consist of an elastomeric block composed of either modified neoprene or natural rubber in which parallel and plane steel reinforcement plates are totally embedded before vulcanization. The vulcanization (treatment at high temperature and under pressure) gives the elastomer its mechanical characteristics and ensures the perfect bonding of steel and rubber. Full protection of the steel reinforcement from corrosion is assured. These elastomeric bearing pads provide an economical solution to problems caused to a structure by static and dynamic effects of traffic or wind / variations of temperature, creep, shrinkage or pre-stressing / vibrations and impacts. The pads provide freedom between two elements of a bridge structure absorbing stresses from horizontal and vertical loads and rotations.

Quality control is carried out on both material and finished product. An internal control is conducted at each stage of production along with independent inspection of manufacturing process and checking. These stringent quality assurance controls ensure that our finished product is delivered to site as per designed specification requirements. For large displacements, a sliding elastomeric pad using a PTFE sheet can be used.

Each elastomer bearing pad has several thickness options. It is also available without steel reinforcement plates for less critical applications.

For more information on Structural Bearings, please follow the related link on the left, download our Bearings and Expansion Joints Brochure or contact us.