Steel Plate vs. Elastomeric Bearing
Steel Plate vs. Elastomeric Bearing
(OP)
I need a bearing pad to support the transfer beam which takes excessive loads from
exterior load-bearing walls of several floors in the precast concrete parking structure.
If I want to use a steel plate instead of elastomeric bearing pad, what factors should I consider?
(This will be located at 0.5" joint between transfer beam bearing plate and column corbel bearing plate.)
I am concerned about future corrosion problem.
Also, do you think it is really bad idea using a galvanized steel plate?
I am looking forward to your comments.
Thanks!






RE: Steel Plate vs. Elastomeric Bearing
You may want to give some consideration to the fact that a steel plate won't accommodate supported member rotation like an elastomeric bearing assembly will. You'll get high localized bearing stresses and potential for spalling at the front of your corbel.
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.
RE: Steel Plate vs. Elastomeric Bearing
RE: Steel Plate vs. Elastomeric Bearing
RE: Steel Plate vs. Elastomeric Bearing
However, a steel bearing with a curved sole plate will also take care of the rotations - see attached drawing. I used these recently on a bridge project that involved widening an existing structure. Since the existing steel bearings will remain I used a steel bearing - copied from a 1970's DOT standard - rather than mix and match elastomeric with steel. These are taking about 60k.
If you want to use steel on steel (or more like steel on PTFE) Google Lubrite or Fluorgold. They'll have what you're looking for