Bridge Bearing Testing

We offer clients Bridge Bearing Testing service. A bridge bearing carries the loads or movement in both vertical and horizontal directions from the bridge superstructure and transfers those loads to the bridge piers and abutments. The loads can be live load and dead load in vertical directions, or wind load, earthquake load, etc.

1. Types of Bridge Bearing Tests

A. Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) / Prototype Tests

- Load Capacity Test – Ensures the bearing can handle design loads.
- Shear & Rotational Test – Verifies movement capabilities under stress.
- Slip Test – Ensures friction is within acceptable limits.
- Fatigue Test – Simulates long-term stress to check durability.

B. Routine Production Testing

- Compression Test – Checks vertical load resistance.
- Shear Test – Confirms movement allowance.
- Dimensional Accuracy Check – Ensures proper fit as per design.

C. On-Site Testing (Post-Installation)

- Visual Inspection – Checks for defects, cracks, or misalignment.
- Load Application Test – Ensures proper load transfer.
- Displacement & Rotation Measurement – Confirms expected movement behavior.

2. Testing Standards & Guidelines

- ASTM D5978 – Elastomeric bearing testing.
- AASHTO LRFD – Load & resistance testing for bridge components.
- EN 1337 – European standard for bridge bearings.
- IS 2062, IRC 83 (India) – Specifications for elastomeric & pot bearings.

3. Equipment Used in Testing

- Hydraulic Press – For load testing.
- Displacement Sensors – Measure movement & rotation.
- Strain Gauges – Monitor stress & deformation.
- Compression Testing Machines – Assess vertical load capacity.

4. Failure Modes in Testing

- Cracking & Delamination – Indicates structural weakness.
- Excessive Deformation – Shows inadequate stiffness or material failure.
- Bonding Failure – Occurs in laminated elastomeric bearings.
- Excessive Wear – Indicates poor material quality or manufacturing defects.