AASHTO rubber bridge bearing pads are a type of structural component used in the construction and maintenance of bridges. AASHTO stands for the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, which is a standards organization that develops guidelines and specifications for various aspects of transportation infrastructure in the United States.

Rubber bridge bearing pads are designed to provide support and flexibility to bridge structures, allowing for the controlled movement and load transfer between different components. They are typically placed between the bridge superstructure (such as beams or girders) and the bridge substructure (such as piers or abutments).

Here are some key features and benefits of AASHTO rubber bridge bearing pads:

  1. Load Distribution: Rubber bridge bearing pads are engineered to distribute the load from the superstructure evenly to the substructure. This helps to prevent excessive stress concentrations and allows for the efficient transfer of loads.

  2. Vibration Damping: The rubber material used in these bearing pads has excellent vibration damping properties. It helps to absorb and dissipate energy, reducing the transmission of vibrations and impact forces throughout the bridge structure.

  3. Flexibility: Rubber bearing pads offer flexibility, which allows for the controlled movement of the bridge components. They can accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, as well as dynamic loads caused by traffic or environmental factors.

  4. Durability: AASHTO rubber bridge bearing pads are made from high-quality elastomeric compounds that are resistant to weathering, ozone, and many chemicals. This ensures their long-term performance and minimizes maintenance requirements.

  5. Easy Installation and Replacement: These bearing pads are typically supplied in standard sizes and shapes, making them easy to install during bridge construction or replacement projects. They can be customized to meet specific design requirements as well.

It is important to note that AASHTO provides specific guidelines and specifications for the design, testing, and installation of rubber bridge bearing pads. These standards ensure that the bearing pads meet the required performance criteria and can safely withstand the loads and movements experienced by the bridge.

Overall, AASHTO rubber bridge bearing pads play a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity and longevity of bridge systems. By providing load distribution, vibration damping, and flexibility, these components contribute to the safe and efficient operation of bridges, enhancing the overall transportation infrastructure.

 

MAKE LAUREL RUBBER YOUR FIRST-CHOICE AASHTO BRIDGE BEARING PAD PRODUCTS SUPPLIER

Natural or Neoprene / Polychloroprene meet the AASHTO (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials) standard specifications for highway bridge bearing pads. Produced from premium ingredients and featuring tensile strength of 2250 psi minimum, ATLAS BEARING PADS™ are an enduring solution for the long haul. Our ATLAS BEARING PADS™ are listed under NTPEP (National Transportation Product Evaluation Program).

They should be considered for:

  • Pre-cast concrete and pre-stressed concrete

  • Buildings with structural steel beams / Steel reinforced concrete

  • Industrial Machinery / Heavy Equipment Foundations

  • Railway tie pads

  • Shock and vibration isolation

  • Pads between girders and columns

  • Pads between substructures

  • New construction AND rehabilitation of existing structures

  • Buildings, arenas, tunnels, infrastructure

All are AASHTO products have applicable information printed on the product for traceability.

 

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