Versiflex™ Elastomeric Bearing Assemblies are molded neoprene or natural rubber pads used for isolating and supporting structures or equipment.
Answer: Per AASHTO/NSBA G9.1 (2022) section 2.2, elastomeric bearings are preferably vulcanized to a top plate or sole plate (non-sliding bearings) for performance and efficiency. Masonry plates are not required for all applications, but when used the bearings are typically vulcanized to this plate as well. Stop bars are a preference of some owners and can be manufactured by D.S. Brown, but have not shown to be economical compared to bonding. More information can be found in the AASHTO/NSBA G9.1 document found here.
Learn more about D.S. Brown Structural Bearing Assemblies
Since 1963, The D.S. Brown Company has provided structural 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.