Bridge Engineering
Our team has many years of experience in designing structural bearings for bridge and building engineering applications. We provide comprehensive technical support, including advice on bearing selection in line with the applicable European standards – the EN 1337 standard, we optimise structural designs, support certification processes, and provide engineering supervision. We specialise in performing precise calculations and preparing technical documentation for bearings. We prepare complete documentation – from the design through to support during the production process and quality control. We invite you to work with us.
Bridge bearings in construction
These are key elements of engineering structures – bridges, viaducts, as well as highly specialised structures, pipelines, and masts. Their role is to safely transfer vertical and horizontal loads while allowing controlled displacements and rotations of the structure caused by temperature changes, moving loads, or settlement of the supports.
- Elastomeric bearings
Consisting of layers of special chloroprene rubber (CR) or natural rubber (NR) vulcanised with steel reinforcing plates. They transfer vertical loads and allow displacement in all directions as well as rotation about any axis thanks to the shear deformation of the elastomer.
- Pot bearings
They have a characteristic "pot" design. A steel piston and a closed cylinder with a sealed elastomer insert inside allow enormous loads to be transferred while maintaining a high degree of rotational freedom.
- Lens bearings
They are an evolution of traditional hinged bearings. They transfer significant vertical loads while allowing free rotation around one axis or in any direction. Thanks to modern sliding materials such as PTFE or UHMWPE, they are characterised by minimal friction.
- Roller bearings
These are elements used mainly in long-span bridge structures that require very large linear displacements. Steel rollers placed between rolling plates allow smooth movement with minimal resistance.
Modern structures increasingly use spherical bearings as well. They allow very large vertical forces to be transferred while ensuring freedom of rotation in all directions. This is an ideal solution for structures with complex geometry or those exposed to dynamic effects.
Expansion Joints
Expansion joints are precise mechanisms that compensate for deformations and movements of the structure resulting from temperature, concrete shrinkage, or moving loads. Their correct selection and installation is crucial for the durability of the structure and the comfort of users.
Our team has many years of experience in designing both modular and finger-type expansion joints. We create 3D models and 2D drawings, and select solutions according to the technical parameters of the structure (displacements, rotation angles, loads). We support our clients at every stage – from concept through to supervision of production and installation.
In line with GDDKiA requirements and current technical regulations, we provide solutions adapted to the road class and traffic volume. Our designs include:
- Modular joints
Used in structures with large spans and significant displacements. They consist of a system of transverse beams and tightly sealed steel profiles.
- Finger joints
Characterised by low noise levels and high durability. Ideal for urban structures and wherever a high level of ride comfort is required.
- Asphaltic joints
Used for smaller displacements, ensuring continuity of the road surface and full water-tightness.