Clarification of elastomeric bearing
Clarification of elastomeric bearing
(OP)
I'm new here and have read thru the posts on elastomeric bearing pads. What methods are used to fasten the bearing pad to a concrete bridge seat? Also, would it be appropriate to partially restrain the sides of the elastomeric pad to influence the shape factor S ?





RE: Clarification of elastomeric bearing
As for enhancing the shape factor, some bearing configuations probably do take this into account. For example on multi-rotational bearings where the upper assembly sits in a lower assembly on a elastomer unit the unit is usually contained within some type of ring that prevents translation of the upper assembly and confines the lower elastomer unit as well.
RE: Clarification of elastomeric bearing
The technique can be difficult due to the use of anti ozonants in the rubberr compound, and if the ' adhesive ' fails, the co-efficient of friction reduces and thus the bearing can more easily slip out.
If you restrain by confining part of the rubber thickness, then the permitted shear deformation is reduced.
An exact answer would be governed by the overall thickness of the ' bearing ' pad you nominate.
So far as the other answer is concerned, a POT BEARING requires totally different ' restraiint ' compared to a bearing pad.
RE: Clarification of elastomeric bearing
RE: Clarification of elastomeric bearing
I would be surprised if the coefficient of friction between a pad and a mating surface of concrete or steel were less than 0.5. I would expect it to be close to 1 when the grit is applied.
Incidently, check your anchor bolts carefully when you use elastomeric bearings.