The selection of an appropriate bearing assembly for bridges 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.
Multi-rotational bearings should be considered whenever an elastomeric bearing cannot easily meet the design requirements of a structure. As a very rough limit, it would likely be worth considering a multi-rotational bearing around 300 kip. However, that limit may be higher or lower depending on the movement and rotation demands, as well as the available footprint. Using Method B can usually design elastomeric to 750-1000 Kip load, but not much movement or ration allowed with elastomeric bearings.
Comparing HLMR bearings and elastomeric bearings
- Versiflex™ HLMR bearing assemblies are especially suited for curved or skewed bridges and other complex structures where the direction of rotation varies or cannot be precisely determined.
- Versiflex™ elastomeric bearing assemblies have been used in the construction of new bridges and the rehabilitation of existing structures. Other applications include buildings and arenas, shear-key bumpers, seismic isolation protection and vibration devices for machinery.
Versiflex™ HLMR Bearing Assembly
Versiflex™ HLMR bearing assembly consists of a shallow steel cylinder, or pot, which contains a tight-fitting elastomeric disc thinner than the depth of the cylinder.
Versiflex™ Elastomeric Bearing Assembly
Versiflex™ elastomeric bearing assemblies are custom molded using neoprene or natural rubber and are categorized into three basic designs: non-reinforced, laminated and sliding bearing assemblies.
D.S. Brown is one of the leading suppliers of structural bearing assemblies. 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. Here are some more examples - Structural Bearing Assembly Solutions for Every Span.
View the Structural Bearing Assemblies brochure.