elastomeric bearings

About elastomeric bearings

Elastomeric Bearings are essential components used in structural engineering, particularly in the design of bridges, buildings, and other infrastructure where flexibility, vibration damping, and load distribution are crucial. These bearings are designed to accommodate movements and forces between structural elements while providing support and stability.

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Elastomeric Bearings

Product Description:

Elastomeric Bearings are made from a blend of rubber (usually natural rubber or synthetic elastomers) and reinforced with steel plates or other materials for strength. These bearings are used to transfer loads, allow rotations, and accommodate movements between two connected structures. They are ideal for applications like bridge joints, expansion joints, and seismic isolation.

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Key Features:

• High Load-Bearing Capacity: Elastomeric bearings are designed to withstand heavy loads and dynamic forces without compromising performance.

• Flexibility and Movement Accommodation: They allow for horizontal and vertical movements, which is important for structures subject to expansion, contraction, or seismic events.

• Durable and Long-Lasting: Made from high-quality elastomers and reinforced with steel or other materials, these bearings are resistant to wear, aging, and environmental damage.

• Corrosion Resistant: With steel reinforcement and rubber materials, elastomeric bearings are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them ideal for long-term use in various environments, including marine or coastal areas.

• Cost-Effective: Compared to other bearing types, elastomeric bearings are often more affordable and easier to install.

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Types of Elastomeric Bearings:

1. Plain Elastomeric Bearings:

   • Made of layers of elastomeric material (typically rubber) and steel plates.

   • Used for: Load distribution and accommodating small rotations and movements.

2. Elastomeric Bearings with Steel Reinforcement:

   • Composed of elastomeric material with embedded steel reinforcement.

   • Used for: Larger loads, enhanced movement capabilities, and seismic isolation.

3. High-Performance Elastomeric Bearings:

   • Enhanced with specialized rubber compounds for higher strength and durability.

   • Used for: Extreme conditions, heavy loads, and seismic zones.

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Applications:

• Bridge Engineering: Used extensively in bridges to accommodate movement due to thermal expansion, traffic loads, and seismic activity.

• Buildings and Structures: Installed in the foundation to manage settlement, rotations, and seismic forces.

• Seismic Isolation: Used in seismic isolation systems to decouple buildings from ground movements during earthquakes.

• Infrastructure: Used in roadways, tunnels, viaducts, and other critical infrastructure for load distribution and stress relief.

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Benefits:

• High-Performance Seismic Isolation: Elastomeric bearings can help absorb and dissipate seismic forces, enhancing the stability of buildings and bridges during earthquakes.

• Shock Absorption and Vibration Damping: These bearings are particularly effective at reducing vibrations from traffic, machinery, or other dynamic loads.

• Compact Design: Elastomeric bearings can be designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport and install.

• Flexibility in Design: These bearings are customizable for different applications, ensuring optimal performance.

• Longevity: With the ability to endure harsh environmental conditions, elastomeric bearings often last longer than other bearing types.

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Customization Options:

• Size & Shape: Elastomeric bearings come in various sizes and thicknesses, and can be tailored to fit the specific design and load requirements of your project.

• Reinforcement Type: Bearings can be customized with stainless steel or carbon steel reinforcement for additional strength.

• Rubber Composition: Different rubber types can be used depending on the desired properties (e.g., higher resistance to wear, oil, or extreme temperatures).

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Typical Specifications:

Specification	Details
Material	Natural or synthetic rubber, steel reinforcement
Dimensions	Customizable to meet project requirements
Load Capacity	Can handle loads from a few tons to several thousand tons
Hardness	Varies depending on the rubber grade (typically between 50-80 Shore A)
Service Temperature	Typically between -20C to +70C, but special grades can withstand more extreme temperatures
Design Lifespan	Typically designed for 25-50 years depending on environmental conditions
Movement Accommodation	Can accommodate both horizontal and vertical movements

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Installation & Maintenance:

• Easy to Install: Elastomeric bearings can be installed with minimal preparation, often involving placing the bearings between structural elements and securing them.

• Minimal Maintenance: These bearings require very little maintenance, as they are designed for long-term durability. Regular inspections to check for wear or degradation are recommended.

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Advantages of Elastomeric Bearings:

• Efficient Load Transfer: Distributes weight evenly across the structure.

• Reduced Maintenance Costs: Once installed, elastomeric bearings require little to no ongoing maintenance.

• Enhanced Structural Flexibility: Accommodates shifts and vibrations from environmental or traffic-related movements.

• Cost-Effective: Compared to other types of bearings (like pot bearings), elastomeric bearings are often more economical.

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Would you like:

• A datasheet or installation guide for elastomeric bearings?

• Help sourcing suppliers or manufacturers for elastomeric bearings?

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Precision Design for Structural Demands

Our elastomeric bearings are crafted with robust natural rubber and embedded steel laminations to withstand demanding structural applications. The product is engineered for compressive and shear strength, ensuring superior durability and safety even under high bridge or flyover loads. Their customizable shapes and sizes guarantee a perfect fit for every project requirement.


Exceptional Durability and Maintenance-Free Operation

With a service life exceeding 25 years under prescribed conditions, these bearings require no regular lubrication or maintenance. Their vulcanized construction and smooth surface finish resist weather extremes and environmental stresses, supporting consistent performance throughout their lifetime.


Custom Solutions for Infrastructure Projects

Whether you need single row, rectangular, or circular designs, our elastomeric bearings are tailored to your specifications. Dealers, manufacturers, and suppliers across India can provide you with configurations suited for a wide range of bridge and RCC structures, ensuring seamless integration into new or existing projects.