PCI eLearning Course T455: Bridge Bearings — Bearing Design-PCI Bridge Design Manual

PCI Bridge Design Manual - Chapter 10

Pdf Summary

Bearings are important for connecting bridge beams to substructures and allow for movement and rotation. Elastomeric bearings are commonly used and designed based on the AASHTO LRFD Specifications. The document discusses the importance of considering rotational movements and translational movements due to various factors. It recommends using the LRFD Specifications over the Standard Specifications. The document also emphasizes the importance of planning the layout of bearings and minimizing their use if possible. The different types of bearings are discussed, including elastomeric pads, cotton duck pads, fiberglass-reinforced pads, steel-reinforced elastomeric bearings (SREB), pot bearings, and flat PTFE sliders. The load and displacement capacities along with rotation limits of each type are provided. Factors to consider when selecting bearings are mentioned, such as cost, maintenance requirements, and low-temperature requirements. The AASHTO LRFD Specifications provide a comprehensive set of guidelines for bridge bearing design.

Keywords

bearings

bridge beams

elastomeric bearings

AASHTO LRFD Specifications

rotation

translational movements

layout of bearings

load capacity

displacement capacity

bearing selection