PTFE sliding elastomeric bearings are highly versatile components designed for bridge structures requiring medium to small load capacity with significant displacement needs. Their unique properties—low friction, high flexibility, and durability—make them ideal for large-span bridges, multi-span continuous beams, simply supported beams, and continuous slabs. They also excel in specialized applications like sliding blocks for pushing continuous beams or T-beam cross-sliding. By accommodating shear deformation, beam rotation, and reducing seismic or live load impacts, these bearings enhance bridge longevity and performance.
Key Points Explained:
1. Suitability for Specific Bridge Types
- Large-span bridges: PTFE sliding pads handle thermal expansion/contraction and dynamic loads over long spans.
- Multi-span continuous beams: Their flexibility accommodates differential movements between spans.
- Simply supported beams: Low friction allows free rotation and displacement at supports.
- Continuous slabs: Dimpled PTFE surfaces retain lubricant for smooth sliding under repetitive loads.
- Specialized uses: Serve as sliding blocks for incremental launching (pushing) of continuous beams or cross-sliding in T-beam configurations.
2. Key Advantages Driving Suitability
- Low friction coefficient: Enables effortless sliding, critical for large displacements (e.g., thermal expansion). The coefficient can drop below 0.05 when paired with polished stainless steel.
- Shear deformation capacity: Absorbs horizontal displacement without transferring excessive forces to substructures.
- Beam rotation adaptability: Elastomeric layers flex to accommodate angular changes at supports, preventing stress concentration.
- Seismic and live load mitigation: Isolates vibrations and reduces impact forces, improving bridge resilience.
3. Material Properties Enhancing Performance
- PTFE’s self-lubrication: Dimples on the surface trap lubricant, ensuring consistent sliding even under high pressure (up to 200 Kgf/cm²).
- Chemical and temperature resistance: Performs reliably in harsh environments, from -200°C to +260°C.
- Filled PTFE variants: Handle higher PV (pressure-velocity) values, extending applicability to heavier loads.
4. Structural and Economic Benefits
- Reduced maintenance: Low wear and corrosion resistance minimize lifecycle costs.
- Simplified installation: Pre-fabricated designs streamline construction, especially for complex geometries like curved bridges.
For detailed insights on PTFE sliding pads, explore /topic/ptfe-sliding-pads. These bearings exemplify how material innovation quietly elevates infrastructure reliability—ensuring bridges flex, slide, and endure without compromising safety.
Summary Table:
| Bridge Type | Key Benefit |
|---|---|
| Large-span bridges | Handles thermal expansion/contraction and dynamic loads over long spans. |
| Multi-span continuous beams | Accommodates differential movements between spans. |
| Simply supported beams | Allows free rotation and displacement at supports. |
| Continuous slabs | Dimpled PTFE surfaces retain lubricant for smooth sliding under repetitive loads. |
| Specialized uses (e.g., T-beam) | Serves as sliding blocks for incremental launching or cross-sliding. |
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