Versiflex™ Elastomeric Bearing Assemblies are molded neoprene or natural rubber pads used for isolating and supporting structures or equipment.
Answer: Shims should be fully encapsulated in rubber so the benefit of using stainless shims is debatable. Yes you can use stainless shims in laminated elastomeric bearings. Stainless steel is significantly more expensive than carbon steel.
Learn more about D.S. Brown Structural Bearing Assemblies
D.S. Brown is one of the leading suppliers of structural bearing assemblies.
Since 1963, The D.S. Brown Company has provided bearing assemblies and joint seals for bridges around the globe. Bridges and other large structures are supported on bearing assemblies to transmit forces while accommodating all structural movements.
The selection of an appropriate bearing assembly is based on the magnitude of vertical and horizontal forces transmitted through the bearing assembly, as well as the amount of displacement and rotation of the superstructure elements. In addition, special attention to the bearing assembly design may be necessary when, for example, larger than normal horizontal loading or uplift situations exist.
With extensive experience and utilizing the latest technologies, D.S. Brown can efficiently design, manufacture and test Versiflex™ high-load multi-rotational (Versiflex™ HLMR) pot and disc style, spherical, seismic isolation and elastomeric bearing assemblies for all types of construction.
D.S. Brown is available to work closely with bridge owners and engineering design consultants to assist in the design, selection and testing of the proper structural bearing assemblies.